2009 Volvo V50 Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the Volvo V50:

The engine accelerates smoothly and sounds pleasantly harmonic.

-- Cars.com

This is a capable wagon that rewards spirited driving with a good deal of fun.

-- Edmunds.com

Scandinavian to the core, the V50's interior is a study in spartan elegance.

-- Edmunds.com

Handling is good, and the firm-but-supple suspension provides a nice ride.

-- MSN Autos

What reviewers liked least about the Volvo V50:

The suspension is too stiff, often crossing over to harshness on even mildly rough pavement.

-- Cars.com

Visibility good except to right rear in sedan, where head restraints and high deck interfere some.

-- Consumer Guide

The standard 168-hp, 2.4-liter, five-cylinder engine sounds raspy.

-- Consumer Reports

Volvo V50 Comparisons:

The new compacts boast the same refined driving characteristics of the larger Volvos, and the same tight, solid structure.

-- Cars.com

The V50 is good enough to compete with small wagons such as the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class-pretty heady company.

-- MSN Autos

Best one-liner about the Volvo V50:

From the driver's seat, it's easy to forget you're in a station wagon.

-- Car and Driver

The automatic transmission, a five-speed Geartronic, exhibits few of the annoying traits typical of both manumatics and overly protective mothers.

-- Car and Driver

Just when you thought the typical car dashboard couldn't be improved upon, Volvo comes up with the coolest-looking center stack this side of Stockholm.

-- Edmunds.com