2007 Volvo V50: Road Test
Archived Review
2007 Volvo V50 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $26,690 -$30,190
- Invoice: $25,124 -$28,414
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Volvo 40/50 series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2007 Volvo V50 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Volvo V50 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Volvo V50, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Volvo V50 help you decide if a 2007 Volvo V50 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Automatic-transmission T5 models only V50s made available for test so far. They have little irksome turbo lag. Automatic generally smooth, responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Test automatic AWD V50 averaged 25.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.9 |
All models firm, but base suspension reasonably compliant on most surfaces. Tauter sport suspension, included with AWD models and optional Sport Package, reacts sharply to bumps, makes for uncomfortably stiff ride in concert with low-profile 17-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.3 |
Assured and predictable, but not quite sport-sedan agile. Steering accurate, has good feedback, but some testers find it too light for best highway-speed control. Tight turning circle aids low-speed maneuvering. Brakes ease speed quickly with fine stability, moderate nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
These 5-cyl engines lack 6-cyl smoothness, suffer intrusive high-rpm thrum, but are OK otherwise. Wind noise modest. Little road ruckus from 16-inch tires except on very coarse pavement; 17s rumble on all but smoothest surfaces. Test AWD model had annoying drumming resonance from cargo area at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Mostly user friendly. Ultrathin center stack houses audio and climate buttons that some testers say take time to sort. Windshield-wiper stalk impedes accessing dashboard-mounted ignition switch. Cabin has minimalist design, high-quality materials. Solid workmanship, too, though one test model had a persistent squeak in its driver seat.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Interior not that wide, but furnishes adult-size head and leg room on supportive, well-shaped seats. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel, available power seat let most drivers get comfortable. Visibility good.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Two adults get decent head and elbow room, but three will feel pinched. Knee space tight if front seats more than halfway aft, but toe room generous. Seat short on thigh support. Narrow door thresholds impede entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
A nice little hauler, but liftgate lacks opening glass, doesn't rise high enough to clear a six-footer's head. Interior storage subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
Avoid the rough-riding optional sport suspension/17-inch tire combination, and V50 emerges as a solid, capable small wagon. A full compliment of safety features are standard, and useful all-wheel drive is available. Prices are competitive against most premium-compact wagons, though most rivals also offer 6-cyl engines that are smoother and more powerful than the V50's 5-cyl engines.
Total Score
| T5, auto. | AWD T5 w/17-in. whls., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 59 | 58 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
