The Volvo S40 sedan and V50 wagon are premium, safe cars in a small package. They offer essential active safety systems, such as advanced ABS and skid-control electronics, and a high level of impact protection. Their interiors are nice.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Sam Moses filed this report from California; with Mitch McCullough reporting from Charlottesville, Virginia, and J.P. Vettraino in Detroit.
dual-stage front-impact airbags, front passenger side-impact airbags, curtain-style head protection airbags for all outboard seats, Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability and traction control, tire-pressure monitor
Safety equipment (optional):
active bi-xenon headlights ($800); dual integrated child booster seats ($300); Blind Spot Information System ($700)
Basic warranty:
4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled in:
Ghent, Belgium
Specifications As Tested
Model tested (MSRP):
Volvo V50 2.4i ($28,700)
Standard equipment:
fabric upholstery, Electronic Climate Control with interior pollen filter; 8-way power driver seat; leather tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls; 160-watt audio with six speakers, CD/MP3 player and auxiliary input jack and USB port; Bluetooth; power windows and door locks; cruise control; remote keyless entry; power heated side mirrors; outside temperature indicator; fold-forward front passenger seat; 60/40 split-folding rear seat; power tailgate release; rear window defroster with automatic timer; fog lights; 17-inch alloy wheels
Options as tested (MSRP):
Leather seating ($1,200); Preferred Package ($1,250) includes power glass sunroof, power front passenger seat, Keyless Drive; Climate Package ($900) includes heated front seats, headlight washers, rain-sensing wipers, IAQS, humidity sensor; metallic paint ($550); Sirius Satellite Radio ($400)
Destination charge:
($850)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$33,850
Layout:
front-wheel drive
Engine:
2.4-liter DOHC 20-valve inline-5
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
168 @ 6000
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
170 @ 4400
Transmission:
5-speed automatic with manual shift feature
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
20/31 mpg
Wheelbase:
103.9 in.
Length/width/height:
178.0/69.7/57.4 in.
Track, f/r:
60.4/60.3 in.
Turning circle:
34.9 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
38.1/53.7/41.6 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
38.1/50.7/34.4 in.
Cargo volume:
62.6 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
2000 Lbs.
Suspension, f:
independent, MacPherson strut, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Suspension, r:
independent, multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Ground clearance:
5.3 in.
Curb weight:
3321 lbs.
Tires:
205/50R17
Brakes, f/r:
ventilated disc/disc with ABS, EBD and brake assist
Fuel capacity:
15.9 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of July 13, 2009.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-550-5658 -
www.volvocars.com
