I don't have a whole lot of experience with Volvos. I did try out one or two models from this Swedish automaker, but not over an extended period of time. Therefore, I was anxiously waiting for the opportunity to spend a full week behind the wheel of the 2008 Volvo V50.
This compact wagon is fairly basic and clean-looking, yet it boasts some obvious qualities.
Fortunately, I wasn't disappointed. This compact wagon is fairly basic and clean-looking, yet it boasts some obvious qualities.
Scandinavian styling
Even at first glance, you can't mistake the V50 for anything else than a Volvo. Up front, character lines flank the traditional grille and create a raised hood section. Another trademark is the pair of vertical taillights running along the lines of the car.
Overall, the V50 is attractive and refined. Sixteen-inch aluminum wheels complete this cute Scandinavian package.
Misleading size
That being said, Volvo really has to be commended inside. The interior design of the V50 is pure and understated, while the layout is ergonomic and thoroughly thought-out. The available room is quite surprising given the compact exterior dimensions. As for the seats, they're easily among the best in the business; I had no problems with the many adjustments at my disposal.
To make the car more user-friendly, Volvo added radio and cruise control buttons on the steering wheel. I consider this to be a safety feature as it allows you to avoid distractions and keep both hands on the wheel. Ergonomics are impeccable and the various controls are appropriately sized; you can manipulate them with winter gloves. The climate control system, of which the interface is unique to the Gothenburg-based automaker, offers dual-zone settings, ensuring customized comfort for the driver and front passenger.
There are lots of brushed aluminum accents inside this car, including the now-famous floating center console. I find the latter to be plain yet modern and original.
Like any self-respecting wagon, the V50 offers generous cargo room. The trunk easily managed to accommodate all our shooting equipment, which is almost a feat considering our multiple cameras, tripods and other boxes. Loading items into the car also proved easy thanks to the low cargo threshold.
Swedish power
A 227-hp 5-cylinder turbocharged engine -- the most potent engine ever offered with the V50 -- powered my T5 tester. Accelerations and passing maneuvers are decent, with a surprising amount of low-end grunt. The turbo is refined and operates imperceptibly. Meanwhile, the transmission is precise, with six well-calibrated gears (five could have been enough; the sixth gear was essentially added to improve fuel economy on the highway).
On the road, the V50 is pleasant and surefooted. The suspension is just firm enough to ensure a nice balance between ride and handling. This car makes the most of road conditions. It handles like a charm while offering flawless visibility and a superb driving position.
Feedback from the steering is clear and quite appreciated, although the light calibration becomes a handicap when dealing with the engine's 236 lb-ft of torque under acceleration. As a result, the car feels a bit unstable at times.
In short, the 2008 Volvo V50 T5 is a fine automobile in every sense of the word. The driving experience is fantastic, while the build quality is beyond reproach, both inside and out. My only real complaint would probably be the high pricing across the lineup.
- INTERESTING LINKS -
Link to the 2008 Volvo V50
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