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Acceleration
"Volvo says 2.4i does 7.7 sec 0-60 mph with manual transmission, 8.4 with automatic.
Pickup is unimpressive, even with manual, especially up long grades. T5s feel
snappy, are mostly free of irksome turbo-induced throttle lag. Test manual-transmission
T5 did 6.9 sec 0-60. Manual shift slick, precise. Automatic generally smooth,
responsive."
Value
"V50 may be a little too pricey and not quite sporty enough to snare the young
driving enthusiasts Volvo targets. But it's a solid, capable, and--without the
optional sport suspension/17-inch-tire combination--comfortable wagon that offers
most big-Volvo features in compact packages. Availability of all-wheel drive
strengthens the attraction. "
Ride
"All models firm, but base-suspension versions comfortably compliant on most
surfaces. Taut sport suspension, standard with AWD and part of Sport Package
option, triggers abrupt vertical motions on bumps; in combination with low-profile
17-inch tires, makes for uncomfortably stiff ride."
Economy
"No opportunity to measure with 2.4i versions. Test T5s averaged 20.3 mpg with
manual transmission, 20.6 with automatic. Test automatic-transmission AWD model
averaged 25.0 mpg with more highway use. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel
for both engines."
Noise
"These 5-cyl engines lack 6-cyl smoothness, but aren't noisy except for intrusive
thrum at high rpm. Wind noise modest. Little road ruckus from 16-inch tires except
on very coarse pavement; 17s rumble on all but smooth surfaces. Test AWD V50
had annoying drumming resonance from cargo area at highway speeds."
Comfort - Front
"Interior width not abundant, but there's adult-size head and leg room on supportive,
well-shaped seats. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel, available power seat
let most drivers get comfortably situated. Visibility good except to right-rear,
where head restraints interfere some."
Comfort - Rear
"Two adults get decent head and elbow room. Knee space tight if front seats more
than halfway aft, but generous toe room offsets crowding. Seat short on thigh
support. Narrow door thresholds impede entry/exit."
Controls
"Mostly user-friendly design: Unique ultrathin center stack houses audio, climate
controls, which some testers say takes time to sort out. Windshield-wiper stalk
interferes with easy access to dashboard-mounted ignition switch. Cabin design
sleek, modern. Materials of high quality. Some testers noted a persistent squeak
from the driver seat in one test AWD V50."
Cargo Room
"Wagon a nice little hauler, but tailgate doesn't open past roofline, making
cargo access difficult for taller users. Interior storage subpar."
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