![[ Auto Express ]](/front_website/images/ae_website_logo.gif){kind=logo}
Auto Express Car Reviews
Volvo V50 D5
Volvo V50 D5 SE Lux
With gutsy and efficient performance, the new Volvo V50 has strong appeal
Text: James Disdale / Photos: Nathan Morgan
June 2007
- Rating:
The new 207 SW isn't the only small load-lugger to be driven for the first time this week - Volvo's facelifted V50 has also hit the road.
The S40-based estate has been on sale for four years, although the changes to its looks are unlikely to cause much of a stir. At the front, there has been a minor update, with the car getting a slightly wider grille, new headlamp covers and a reprofiled bumper.
It's a similarly subtle approach at the rear, where the lights feature LED bulbs and brake indicators which flash in an emergency stop. Otherwise, the car looks much the same as before, which is no bad thing.
Inside, Light Oak trim now covers the floating centre console and doors. Cubby space has also been improved, with larger door bins and cup-holders. Luggage capacity is unchanged at a less-than-impressive 417 litres. But that's not to say the car isn't practical; the upright tailgate does mean you get a usefully square load area.
Everything feels well put together, and material quality is on a par with that of class-leading German premium rivals. The V50's seats are also among the most comfortable around.
Under the facelifted nose, Volvo's 180bhp D5 diesel unit is now available with the slick-shifting, six-speed manual transmission. The engine also offers a boost in torque output from 350Nm to 400Nm, so performance is impressive, particularly when overtaking. Under full throttle, the oil-burner even has a distinctive engine note.
As the V50 shares its underpinnings with the Ford Focus, it's entertaining to drive, too. The car remains composed through corners and provides plenty of grip. So although its size makes it something of a one-off, the Volvo is still a class act.
 | |
| Inside, Light Oak trim now covers the floating centre console and doors. | |
 |
The S40-based estate has been on sale for four years, although the changes to its looks are unlikely to cause much of a stir. At the front, there has been a minor update, with the car getting a slightly wider grille, new headlamp covers and a reprofiled bumper.
It's a similarly subtle approach at the rear, where the lights feature LED bulbs and brake indicators which flash in an emergency stop. Otherwise, the car looks much the same as before, which is no bad thing.
Inside, Light Oak trim now covers the floating centre console and doors. Cubby space has also been improved, with larger door bins and cup-holders. Luggage capacity is unchanged at a less-than-impressive 417 litres. But that's not to say the car isn't practical; the upright tailgate does mean you get a usefully square load area.
Everything feels well put together, and material quality is on a par with that of class-leading German premium rivals. The V50's seats are also among the most comfortable around.
Under the facelifted nose, Volvo's 180bhp D5 diesel unit is now available with the slick-shifting, six-speed manual transmission. The engine also offers a boost in torque output from 350Nm to 400Nm, so performance is impressive, particularly when overtaking. Under full throttle, the oil-burner even has a distinctive engine note.
As the V50 shares its underpinnings with the Ford Focus, it's entertaining to drive, too. The car remains composed through corners and provides plenty of grip. So although its size makes it something of a one-off, the Volvo is still a class act.
Pictures
- Advertisement -
FIRST OPINION
- Styling tweaks and a mild makeover inside have made the V50 more appealing. Rivals from BMW and Audi have a stronger image and offer a larger boot capacity, but the Volvo remains comfortable and desirable. The new diesel engine and gearbox combination provides gutsy and efficient performance as well.
AT A GLANCE
- Price: £23,895
- Engine: 2.4-litre 5cyl diesel
- Power: 180bhp
- Torque: 400Nm
- Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive
- 0-60mph: 7.5 seconds
- Top speed: 143mph
- Economy: 43mpg
- CO2: 155g/km
- Standard equipment: Leather trim, heated seats, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control, automatic wipers
- On sale: Now
Find Used Cars
Compare Market
How much will this Volvo V50 D5 cost you to insure?
powered by
Social Bookmarks