A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.3
Running Costs
3.6
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Volvo V50 is a compact estate that perfectly balances Swedish practicality with everyday usability. This well built family car offers generous boot space and reliable performance that makes it ideal for growing families or anyone needing extra cargo capacity. The V50 stands out from rivals like the Ford Focus estate with its emphasis on safety and build quality. Volvo’s reputation for durability shines through in this model, with many examples still delivering dependable service years after leaving the showroom. The interior feels solid and well constructed, though it lacks some of the modern tech features found in newer alternatives. What really sets the V50 apart is its combination of practicality and comfort, offering a smooth ride quality that makes longer journeys a pleasure. The range of petrol and diesel engines provides good fuel economy while delivering adequate performance for most driving situations. Boot space is genuinely impressive for the compact estate class, making it a smart choice for families who need maximum practicality without stepping up to a larger SUV. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family workhorse or simply want the extra versatility an estate offers, the V50 delivers Swedish engineering values at an accessible price point.
What's the Volvo V50 Like to Drive?
The Volvo V50 offers a range of petrol and diesel engines designed for smooth, comfortable driving rather than outright performance. The popular 2.0-litre diesel engine produces around 136 horsepower and provides excellent torque for effortless motorway cruising. It reaches 0-60 mph in approximately 9.2 seconds, which feels perfectly adequate for family duties. The petrol options include a 1.8-litre and 2.4-litre unit, both offering smooth power delivery.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.8L 4-cylinder / 2.0L TDI / 2.4L 5-cylinder
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Power Output
125 - 170 bhp
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0-60 mph
9.2 - 7.8 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 - 50 mpg
- Boot Space
- 417 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Volvo V50: Comfort & Features
Step inside the V50 and you’ll immediately notice the typically Swedish approach to interior design. Everything is laid out logically and built to last. The seats are supportive and comfortable, designed for long distance comfort rather than sporty thrills. The driving position is excellent, with good visibility in all directions thanks to the large windows and relatively upright seating position.
The Volvo V50 is a well-rounded compact estate that excels in practicality and comfort, with a roomy interior and generous boot space making it ideal for families. Its 2.0-litre diesel engine delivers smooth, torque-rich performance for effortless cruising, though acceleration feels modest. Build quality and safety credentials are standout features, though running costs and performance ratings reflect its focus on reliability over thrills. A solid choice for those prioritizing space and substance over speed.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Volvo V50?
The V50 offers reasonable running costs for a family estate, particularly if you choose one of the efficient diesel models. The 2.0-litre diesel can achieve real world fuel economy of around 45-50 mpg, making it economical for longer journeys. Insurance groups are moderate, typically ranging from group 15 to 25 depending on the engine and specification level you choose.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Volvo V50
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BMW 3 Series Touring
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Audi A4 Avant
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £8,000 | £12,000 | £11,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L TDI 136hp | 2.0L TDI 150hp | 2.0L TDI 143hp |
| Power | 136 bhp | 150 bhp | 143 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 seconds | 8.5 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 48 mpg | 52 mpg | 50 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 417 litres | 495 litres | 490 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Excellent safety, Comfortable ride, Great value | Premium interior, Sporty handling, Strong performance | High quality cabin, Advanced tech, Refined driving |
Is the Volvo V50 Practical for Everyday Use?
The V50 excels in practical terms, which is exactly what you’d expect from a Volvo estate. The 417-litre boot is well shaped and easily accessible, perfect for the weekly shopping or family holidays. The rear seats split and fold down to create a flat loading floor, expanding cargo space significantly. Inside the cabin, you’ll find plenty of storage compartments for everyday items like phones, drinks, and snacks.
We’ve had our V50 for three years now and it’s been absolutely brilliant. The boot space is fantastic for our two kids and all their gear. It’s never let us down and always feels safe and solid on the road.
The Volvo V50 stands out as one of the most sensible choices in the used family car market. It combines Volvo’s famous safety credentials with genuine everyday practicality and competitive running costs. The refined driving experience and comfortable interior make every journey pleasant, whether you’re dropping kids at school or heading off on holiday.