V50 D5 - A quick review

[burchi]

Hi Guys

Thought I would post my impressions of the latest V50 model that is out.

I currently am driving one of these that has been supplied to me from Kings Volvo, Southampton whilst my V70R is having some work done.

I think a good short summary is "WOW"!!!

This car absolutely flies. The D5 engine is quiet, refined and never seems to run out of power. Yes, it is very slightly louder than a petrol equivalent at idle and when pushed hard but, other than that it is superb. Being a diesel though, fuel economy is very good. I have seen average fuel consumption figs that don't even appear on my V70R! Even with spirited driving, it averaged 33 mpg and driven more sedately, has returned 39-41 mpg. Not bad I reckon! I'm sure with a very gentle right foot this could get well into the 40's.

It is a good job the car has DSTC as with this amount of torque and power going through the front wheels, it would be a real handful to keep in a straight line. The handling is also very precise and the car feels nimble around corners even when pushed harder.

I drove a V50 & S40 2.0D previously and this is in another league again. Much smoother power delivery. I also notice that Volvo have put a left foot rest in this model. Whether that is because it is geartronic (the only available transmission currently on the D5) or whether this is now in all the models I do not know but, was something that was definately missing from the earlier versions!

The geartronic is not my transmission of preference (I like MT's) but, with this engine, it really doesn't seem to matter. Changes are smooth and quick both up and down the range.

The model I have is a V50 D5 SE Sport so comes with nice alloys and a bit of a bodykit on it. Does look pretty good with that combination.

So, if you get a chance, go have a drive of one of these... I am sure you will not be disappointed. The only danger is, you could be that impressed you may end up parting with money!!!

Regards