51 Used Volvo V50 cars for sale

Volvo and its brand enthusiasts would love to consider the V50 a premium model. The ergonomics of the V50 are beyond its counterparts, and the floating central console is comfortable and easy to understand. However, unlike other rivals in the premium category, the entry-level V50's high-end exterior doesn't suit its relatively basic interior. If you want a high-end premium car inside and out, you'll need to go with one of the higher-end V50 trims.

Since Volvo changed its engine line-up for the V50 so often, individual engine performance depends on the car's mileage or age. The final choices came down to 2 diesel engines: a 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre, respectively, producing 113 bhp and 149 bhp. There is also an aspirated 143 bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, which is the only options offering a 6-speed automatic transmission. Before these newer engine choices, the V50 packed a 100 bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine, a 125 bhp 1.8-litre and a 170 hp 2.4-litre thirsty petrol, among some others.

Though the V50 may lack the sparkle of newer rivals, it's still undoubtedly an exciting ride, especially for those already familiar with Volvos' handling characteristics. On motorways, the V50 cruises smoothly with exquisite refinement, especially post-2008 V50s with the smooth-shifting automatic gearbox. Still, the V50 can feel a tad fidgety on rougher terrains.

Provided the vehicle is well maintained, then absolutely! The V50 seats are exemplarily supportive and comfortable, so a used V50 should be just comfortable as day one. Additionally, the V50 made up for its predecessor's limitations, the Volvo V40. It improved comfort by increasing the already spacious cabin with more legroom and headroom. As a result, the V50 can comfortably seat 3 taller adults in the rear row seats, even on a long trip.

Even though the V50 looks and feels like a premium car, it's impressively and surprisingly cost-effective. Used Volvo V50 vehicle offers an average fuel efficiency between 45-60 mpg. Equally earth-friendly, the greenest engine is the 1.6-litre diesel engine. Thanks to Volvo's low-emission DRIVe system, CO2 emissions are a low 193 g/mile. Opt for the optional start/stop technology, and you reduce emissions down to just to 167 g/mile.

There is no official crash-test rating for the V50, but the similar Volvo S40 estate version earned a 5-star safety rating for occupants' safety in the Euro NCAP safety test. Volvo has an excellent reputation for safe vehicles. If it has been tested, it's very likely the V50 would've scored the same 5 stars, especially since it has a stiffer body than the Volvo S40, hence providing better energy absorption in the event of a crash. It also has several essential safety features, such as 6 airbags, electric stability control and an optional blind-spot warning system.