You can always tell how well a car is doing by the nature of its mid-life refreshment. A big (and expensive) overhaul usually means flagging sales while subtle tweaks, such as those found in the ‘new’ Volvo V50, means the car’s doing just fine as it is. That’s great for Volvo but it doesn’t give me much to write about, does it? I mean, once I’ve told you that Volvo has tweaked the V50’s lights and bumpers, improved the interior ever so slightly and added new alloy wheels there’s really nothing much else to say.
Our particular V50 was a top-of-the-line SE Lux model with leather and wood trim, 17-inch alloys, climate control etc. Cabin quality is excellent and the ergonomics are virtually flawless, with the exception of the poorly located rear wiper switch. The Ford/Peugeot 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine was less impressive, though.
Apart from the flaccid throttle response from idle (I stalled it a lot) it felt lethargic and underpowered in most situations, which probably explains why it’s been mated to a five-speed gearbox rather than a six-speeder. To be fair, it is a frugal and quiet engine and I think it might loosen up with a few more kilometres on the clock. Compared to the Ford Focus, on which the V50 is based, there’s not much feedback through the huge steering wheel although it does ride about as well and is a little quieter on the move.
Volvo decided not to increase driver involvement, presumably because it’s not what its customers want, and who can blame it? ‘If it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ and all that. Personally, I’d get a loaded Focus 1.8 TDCi Ghia wagon and have more more fun for 10 grand less. Sure, the Volvo’s a nice car and all, but apart from the snazzy dash and a badge, what are you really getting for your money?
INFO
Engine 1.6-litre, turbodiesel, 109hp, 240Nm torque
Transmission 5-speed manual
Acceleration 0-100km/h 12.1 seconds
Top speed 190 km/h
Economy 5 litres/100 km
CO2 Emissions 132 g/km
Boot Capacity 417 litres
Weight 1,341 kg
Base Price €36,600
Price as Tested €39,300
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