Volvo V50 (2004 - 2012) 1.8 Sport 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Wants a practical, safe, stylish car. Sensible.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

I'm 27. Some friends laugh at me and ask when I'm going to join the lawn bowls club. Most people think it looks excellent - aggressive and sporty in metallic black.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, definitely. I am impressed by the handling, comfort and build quality. I like the reputation that Volvo has for safety. It's also not an obvious choice, and is rather unique in the "small estate" category.

What are you likely to buy next?

Volvo V70 or Mercedes E320 estate. Probably a diesel one with lots of torque.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,400

When did you buy the car?

May 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Deal was slightly under the "blue book" value as there was slight scruffiness to the paint and wheels. Dealer warranty thrown in.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Styling and brand reputation for safety, needed "smaller estate" to replace ancient Mercedes E200 which didn't fit into the secure garage at my development.

What was the dealer like?

Very good, two guys in Glasgow running independent dealership.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent road holding and maneuverability. 5-speed gearbox fine on motorway. 1.8 engine is a bit underpowered, and it's difficult to keep up with torque-y turbodiesel-powered traffic. High revs are required to move off rapidly or on steep hill starts. Might pop a chip in it to liberate some more power. I'm getting decent economy provided I drive it sedately and change up early.

What's it like to park?

Fine. Medusa wheels come with stupid tyres which are expensive, uncommon, and afford no protection to the rims whatsoever (rim sticks out further than tyre). Tyres cost £150 per corner, but different tyres are available for £75 per wheel and will still fit. I recommend using the electric mirrors to look down at the rear wheel when reverse parking.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not yet. Sometimes won't start first time if restarted immediately after a long journey and engine is at temperature. This is a common fault which doesn't really affect my day-to-day driving and is fixable with a £35 part from Volvo. Avoid the 18" "Medusa" wheels - prone to cracks and buckling on poor road surfaces. Shame, as they are the best looking rims. Look for Cratus wheels instead.

What's most practical about your car?

Boot space - comfortably fits my large greyhound or any music equipment I need to lug around. When rear seats are folded there is loads of space, albeit not as much as the old E200.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sport bodykit - looks aggressive and sporty.