2006 Volvo V50: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Volvo's entry-level line is comprised of the compact S40 sedan and V50 wagon. V50 comes in base 2.4i and sporty T5 models each with a 5-cyl engine. 2.4i models are front-wheel drive and have 168 hp. T5s offer front- or all-wheel drive, are turbocharged, and have 218 hp. The 2.4i comes only with the automatic. T5s offer a 6-speed manual transmission or the 5-speed automatic. Standard are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and traction control. AWD versions come with a sport suspension that is optional on other models. Other options include an antiskid system, 17-inch wheels vs. standard 16s, navigation system with pop-up dashboard screen, and an in-dash CD changer. Leather upholstery, sunroof, and heated seats are also available.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are Acura TSX, Audi A4, and BMW 3-Series. At this time we have no Recommended picks.

New or significantly redesigned models in this class include Audi A3 and Lexus IS.