2007 Volvo V50 Review
The V50 is a luxury wagon that was first came to the United States in 2000 as the V40. The second generation, now named the V50, arrived as a 2005 model. The new V50 incorporates Volvo’s Intelligent Vehicle Architecture, which fuses safety and drivability. The V50 promises a seamless blend of safety, cargo room, and fun.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Volvo V50 makes the impossible possible: A Volvo station wagon that manages to be hip. With its surprisingly sexy style and tight handling, the V50 isn’t your parent’s Vista Cruiser. However, there are some drawbacks. Performance isn’t up to par, and it’s rather lacking in cargo space, one of the prime reasons people bother with wagons in the first place. Other than that, the V50 offers Volvo’s superior quality with a dash of much-needed style.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power information is not available. Problems with the first generation included faulty air conditioning, brake noise, and corroding electrical connectors. It was recalled once for fuel leaks. Problems with the current generation include loose exhaust manifold nuts, fuel leaks, oil consumption, and squeaky seats. It was recalled in 2000 for water leaks into the brakes, in 2001 for failing heater diodes, and again in 2004 for brake leaks. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, active head restraints, Volvo OnCall, and stability control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Tight handling
+ Comfortable interior
+ Available AWD
Cons
– Unknown crashworthiness
– Weak performance
– Disappointing cargo room
Head-To-Head Competition:
Wagons may not be the hottest body style these days, but you might be surprised at the variety available. The Volkswagen Passat Wagon, at roughly the same price, has about 30 more hp with equal gas mileage, and includes a power seat for the driver. The Dodge Magnum, at about $700 more, has a beefy V6 with 250 horsepower, though you’ll get about four fewer miles to the gallon. While it lacks standard side airbags, it does happen to have rear-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the Audi A3, at roughly the same price, offers about 30 more hp with equivalent gas mileage and features.
What Others Are Saying:
“Volvo wagons have a long tradition of being so relentlessly functional and dorky that they actually became sort of cool-see the 240 and the 700-series, for example. The V50 is the latest evidence that Volvo no longer stumbles upon coolness by accident.” – Automobile Magazine
“The interior of the V50 is a joy to spend time in. The seats are superb and the elegantly spare dash and center console remind one of those high-end electronics shops that specialize in Bang & Olufsen.” – About.com
“This entry-level Volvo wagon is also good looking, peppy, agile, fun to drive and, frankly, way too small for a Griswold family vacation or even a trip to the Home Depot to pick up paneling for that rec room project.” – The Family Car
Read more about the 2007 Volvo V50 at the Volvo manufacturer web site.
