2009 Volvo V50: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Volvo V50 gains standard all-wheel drive on its T5 model, which is renamed T5 R-Design. This is Volvo's entry-level wagon. A sedan version of this car is available as the S40 (see separate report). Both cars 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. The 2.4i is front-wheel drive, while the T5 comes standard with AWD. Automatic transmission is standard. T5 R-Designs are set apart by a different grille, a sport body kit, and other unique trim pieces. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A blind-spot monitoring system is optional. Also available are a navigation system with pop-up dashboard screen, leather upholstery, and heated seats. Newly standard for all 2009 V50 models are a sunroof and 17-inch wheels.

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 Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX, Audi A3, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura TSX and Audi A4.