2006 Volvo V50 T5 Road Test

Should things become a little too heated during a turn, Volvo's DSTC technology will help counter the physics of a skid by applying

(Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com)

wheel-specific braking and reducing engine output. To initiate the program the V50 T5 has to be pushed hard on a wet surface and extremely hard on a dry surface. This wagon delivers impressive cornering tenacity that is both progressive and predictable, which may urge some to reach for the DSTC deactivation button, something I don't recommend unless on a closed circuit. Either way the class-leading occupant protection Volvo builds into its vehicles will be appreciated. The V50 is equipped with dual-stage frontal airbags, side impact airbags for the driver and passenger and inflatable side curtains for both rows of seating, all as standard equipment. I am a major proponent equipping cars with complete safety and occupant protection as standard equipment, especially if the vehicle is intended as family wheels.

Although Volvo ascribes to a philosophy of over-supplying on standard safety and protection assets, a number standalones options and option

(Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com)

packages, such as Premium and Sport packages, are available to match the V50 T5 to one's tastes and desires, and hopefully pocketbook. Although its sticker can inflate substantially when loaded, I really fell for this silky Swede. It's a beautifully built sport wagon that measures-up strongly against some pricier Deutschland competition. Spending less on the Swede doesn't mean compromising on legendary BMW-like refinement and performance, except perhaps on a track. The 325xi Touring wagon might nudge ahead of the Volvo V50 T5 in the corners but certainly not on the straight-aways where the T5's extra horses are capable of hammering it home slightly ahead of the competition.

Specifications (V50 T5):

• Price Range (MSRP): $38,995 - $ 57,645 ($28,140 - $40,957 USD)
• Body Type: 5-door wagon
• Layout: front engine, FWD (opt AWD)
• Engine: 218 hp, 236 lb-ft torque, 2.5L, DOHC 20-valve, high-pressure turbocharged I-5
• Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 5-spd auto with manual mode)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, EBA
• Curb Weight: 1,414 kg - 1,480 kg (3,100 - 3,256 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume: 417 - 1,307 L (14.7 - 46.2 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy: FWD 7.1 / 13.9, AWD 7.5 14.9 L/100 km hwy / city (33 / 17 AWD, 31 / 16 mpg)
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive (48/50,000 mi)
• Competitors: Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3-Series Touring, Dodge Magnum, Jaguar X-Type Estate, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon, Saab 9-2X / 9-3 wagon, VW Jetta/Passat Wagon
• Web Site: www.volvocanada.com