The 2007 Volvo V50 is a compact wagon which seats 5 passengers and comes in two styles, the 2.4i and the T5. The 2.4i is powered by a 2.5 liter inline 5-cylinder engine that develops 168 hp while the T5 comes with a turbocharged 2.5 liter inline 5-cylinder engine which develops 218 hp. The V50 comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive and an optional 5-speed automatic.

A fine example of what a compact wagon should be, the 2007 Volvo V50 has a very usable rear cargo area and a swing up tailgate revealing a gaping entry. The driver's area caters to safety and control, with plenty of visibility, easily read instrumentation, and fingertip buttons on the steering wheel. As expected, the V50 comes standard with power windows, rear section illumination, loads of storage compartments, cup holders, and map lights.

Safety comes first for every Volvo and the V50 is no different, with everything possible done to protect the driver and passengers. The V50 has Volvo's patented whiplash-proof seats, child seat harness rings, and steel cage passenger protection. The usual compliment of airbags including side impact curtains all serve one purpose, to get you from point a to point b in one piece. On the road, the 2007 V50 performs admirably, with smooth acceleration, level cornering, and bump-absorbing suspension. Volvo clearly has the situation in hand when it comes to driving satisfaction.

The V50 2.4i offers fuel economy specs at 22-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 2007 V50 T5 gets 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The exterior of the 2007 Volvo V50 is a concert of smooth lines, well-fitting metal surfaces, and aerodynamic body moldings. The headlights on the V50 are seamless extensions of the front fenders that do not interrupt the graceful sweep of the hood lines. From the color matched front bumpers to the chrome-tipped exhaust, the 2007 Volvo V50 is a successful balance of luxury, performance, and value.