Volvo V50 Used: Sensible Solution

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

The Volvo V50 represents the station wagon variant in the abandoned compact class of Volvo. In addition to more generous space, the V50 offered other features compared to the V40.

The compact class at Volvo was once divided into two parts: the C30 was available for style-conscious buyers with little space requirements, while the S40 and V50 should offer more utility for the more conservative clientele. That was only partially so, but the more sensible solution was definitely the station wagon. And compared to the vulnerable predecessor V40, it was also significantly more reliable.

Volvo V50 more successful at TÜV than its predecessor

At the main vehicle inspection (HU) it doesn't look too bad for the compact Volvo. In any case, according to the “Tüv Report 2015”, it does significantly better than its predecessor. There are occasional problems with the exhaust system and with oil leakage. With older models, the axle suspension is more often uncomfortable. And the lighting is not always flawless either. The V50, which was built from 2004, earned consistently good marks for the brakes.

Anyone who thinks they are driving a puncture-proof companion with the Volvo will be disappointed by the ADAC. V50s built at least up to 2008 often break down. The main reason is the electrical system, where the generators and the batteries sometimes fail. Defective turbochargers cause problems in 2006, engine management malfunctions in diesel engines from 2011. The ADAC also recorded numerous recalls.

Joint platform with Ford and Mazda

After the V40 developed jointly with Mitsubishi, Volvo teamed up with Ford for the successor and developed a common platform on which the Mazda3 was created in addition to the Focus. Despite the rather impressive length of 4.52 meters, the Swede didn't offer much more space in the trunk than a compact class. Between 417 and 1300 liters are scarce, but it looks better on the back seat. Although you can't blame the V50 for a lot visually anyway. It still looks simple but modern.

The power spectrum of the V50 starts with 74 kW / 100 PS with the gasoline engines, the end is only at 169 kW / 230 PS from a 2.5 liter five-cylinder. The diesels produce between 80 kW / 109 PS and 132 kW / 180 PS. There are also two FlexiFuel versions that can be operated with petrol or bio-ethanol. A 1.8-liter engine has an output of 125 kW / 177 hp, a version with a 2.0-liter engine has 107 kW / 145 hp.

Volvo V50 from 4500 euros

The used prices for the V50 start at just over 4500 euros for models from the first year of construction 2004. According to Schwacke, the V50 2.4 with 103 kW / 140 PS tends to be a bit cheaper than the V50 1.6 with only 74 kW / 100 PS at around 4550 euros for around 4650 euros. The mileage in both cases is around 150,800 kilometers. If you are looking for a well-equipped V50 1.8 Summum from 2009, you have to calculate with around 11,150 euros (90,800 kilometers). The sporty V50 T5 R-Design from 2010 costs 13,450 euros (78,800 kilometers).

Diesel drivers should plan around 6450 euros (150,200 kilometers) for a V50 1.6D Kinetic from 2007, and around 10,200 euros (103,400 kilometers) for a more modern and slightly more powerful D2 Momentum from 2010. A D4 Summum of the same year of construction is in the Schwacke list for 12,800 euros with the same mileage. Anyone looking for a FlexiFuel variant with a 1.8-liter engine will find it from 6600 euros (year of construction 2007, 114,800 kilometers). (dpa / tmn)