2005 Volvo V50 Review Summary

What reviewers liked most about the 2005 Volvo V50:

• 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

• The engine accelerates smoothly and sounds pleasantly harmonic.- Cars.com

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

What reviewers liked least about the 2005 Volvo V50:

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

• 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

2005 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-liners about the 2005 Volvo V50:

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

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