VOLVO V50 ESTATE REVIEW

Performance

3 out of 5 stars

There is just one mainstream petrol engine - a 2.0-litre unit - although there's also a high-performance 2.5-litre engine that’s reserved for the range-topping T5 R Design model. Nevertheless, the smart money goes on one of the 1.6- or 2.0-litre diesels – even the least powerful one is quite punchy.
Ride & Handling

4 out of 5 stars

At faster speeds, the V50 is stable and controlled. Twisty routes can also be tackled with plenty of confidence, thanks to minimal body roll and ample grip. The steering is responsive and well weighted, too, but the ride is rather firm.
Refinement

3 out of 5 stars

The V50 is a decent motorway cruiser, although some wind noise does build up around the door mirrors, and it lets in road noise on rougher roads. The petrol engines are pretty civilised, but the 2.0-litre diesels emit a telltale rattle around town.

Buying & Owning

3 out of 5 stars

The Volvo is not cheap for a small family car, but the V50's quality and high levels of standard equipment justify the price tag to a degree. To keep running costs down, owners can buy a three-year/36,000 mile package that covers all scheduled servicing costs for £100, while the sub-100g/km DRIVe models bring low rates of company car- and road tax.
Quality & Reliability

4 out of 5 stars

The cabin is trimmed with good-quality fixtures and fittings, and appears to be well built. The five-cylinder engine, also used in the S60 and S80, is well proven and reliable, while quality and reliability were rated as above average by owners in the 2011 JD Power customer satisfaction survey.
Safety & Security

4 out of 5 stars

The V50 is Volvo's smallest estate, but it has as big a focus on safety as its larger cars. As well as a five-star score in Euro NCAP crash tests, every V50 has front, side and curtain airbags and stability control. Deadlocks and an integrated stereo help to deter thieves, while laminated side glass is an option.

Behind The Wheel

3 out of 5 stars

The V50's front seats are comfortable, with plenty of shoulder- and thigh support, and there's a wide range of adjustment for the steering wheel. The ultra-slim centre console looks stylish, but the controls are small and fiddly, and the information display could be clearer.
Space & Practicality

3 out of 5 stars

Although the V50 has a decently sized boot, it isn't a big load-lugger like Volvo's larger estates. The floor is narrow, and many cheaper estates have more space. There's enough head- and legroom for four adults to sit in comfort, but again, plenty of the V50's rivals provide more.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

Every V50 comes with climate control, front and rear electric windows, a CD player with MP3 input, remote central locking and alloy wheels, while SE models have plusher upholstery and cruise control. SE Lux models have leather upholstery and heated front seats, and R-Design versions are the sportily-trimmed ones. Bluetooth connectivity and satellite navigation are extra-cost options.