2010 Volvo V50 - Review

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From the back seat forward, the 2010 Volvo V50 wagon is virtually the same as the Volvo S40 sedan. The S40 sedan and V50 wagon manage to straddle the line between fuel efficiency, refinement, luxury, and sportiness in a compact package that doesn't betray Volvo's traditional standards of practicality and safety.

Compared to other compact wagons, the V50 boasts an upmarket feel inside, combined with big-car refinement yet great maneuverability. However a pricey lineup is one of several reasons why this model hasn't become a very common sight among urban families. Another reason is that while the interior is certainly fashionable—with a stylish thin 'floating' center-console design, the back seat can be a little cramped.

The two engines offered with the S40 and V50 are worlds apart in terms of performance. The turbocharged, higher-powered T5 models get a 227-hp, 2.5-liter inline-five, which functions well with either the five-speed automatic or six-speed manual. The engine is available with either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. The base 2.4i model comes with a 2.4-liter inline five-cylinder engine making 168 horsepower. The available Haldex all-wheel-drive system proves its worth on wet or slippery roads and is electronically controlled, working on an instant of slippage at the front wheels before torque is sent to the rear.

For more information that applies to the V50 wagon, please check out our 2010 Volvo S40 review, which includes specs, pricing, photos, and related news.