2008 Volvo V50: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Volvo V50 gets freshened exterior and interior styling. This is Volvo's entry-level wagon. A sedan version of this car is available as the S40 (see separate report), and both body styles share some elements of their basic design with the Mazda 3. All have a 5-cylinder engine. The 2.4i has 168 hp; T5s are turbocharged and have 227 hp. All are available with front-wheel drive, and the T5 can be equipped with all-wheel drive. Automatic transmission is standard. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A blind-sport monitoring system is newly optional. AWD T5s include a firmer sport suspension that's available for other models. Also available are a navigation system with pop-up dashboard screen, leather upholstery, heated seats, and sunroof.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A3 and Saab 9-3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Volvo C30.