Volvo’s new V50 sportswagon is here, aimed squarely at young families. Based upon the latest S40 saloon, but with a 46mm longer chassis, the little Swedish hottie comes with a choice of automatic or manual transmissions mated to turbocharged or naturally aspirated five-cylinder engines. The force-fed V50 T5 delivers 162 kW and 320 Nm from just 2 521cc, while the cheaper V50 2.4i is good for a respectable 125 kW and 230 Nm.
The three gearboxes on offer are all pinched from larger models — the entry level wagon comes with five speed manual or auto transmissions, while the T5 can be had with a five speed auto or the crisp six-speed manual developed for the S60 R.
The interior of the new wagon is typically classy and uncluttered, with ample space for four people plus their luggage. The super-slim free-floating centre stack houses the controls for the audio system and optional telephone, with the bottom half dedicated to the climate-control system. The wagon is equipped with IDIS — the Intelligent Driver Information System first seen in the latest S40 — which holds back phone calls and other distracting information when the car’s electronics sense that the driver is too busy staying on the road to jabber on the phone.
All the usual Volvo safety features are present — the WHIPS whiplash protection system, side curtain airbags, ABS brakes with emergency brake assistance and traction control are just a few.
Over the last few years Volvo has added fun and performance to their legendary safety. Nowadays there’s an extra bonus: they’re extremely good value for money. The V50 2.4i manual can be had for R237 000, while the very lively T5 six speed manual sells for R275 000. Auto transmission will add R10 000 to the tag of each. A diesel version should be arriving in the first quarter of next year.