The Good
The 2008 Volvo V50 offers a compelling mix of advantages. Practically, it boasts solid reliability, comfortable seating, and good fuel efficiency (especially the 2.4i). Emotionally, its sleek Scandinavian design, available turbo performance (T5), and Volvo's renowned safety reputation create a sense of well-being and understated luxury.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2008 Volvo V50 include electrical issues, particularly with the climate control system and power windows. The T5's turbocharger can require maintenance. Suspension components and the PCV system are also areas to inspect. Rust can be an issue in northern climates, so check the undercarriage and body panels.
2008 Volvo V50: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4i: 2.4L Inline-5
- T5: 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5
- Horsepower:
- 2.4i: 168 hp
- T5: 218 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4i: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- T5: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (FWD), slightly lower for AWD
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4i: 8.5 - 9 seconds
- T5: 6.5 - 7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- 2.4i: Standard features included power windows and locks, air conditioning, cruise control, a CD player, and cloth upholstery.
- T5: Added features like a more powerful engine, alloy wheels, sport seats, and upgraded audio system.
- T5 AWD: Included all-wheel drive for improved traction.
- Optional Features: Available features across trims included leather upholstery, sunroof, navigation system, premium audio, heated seats, and various safety packages.
2008 Volvo V50 Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2008 |
Make | Volvo |
Model | V50 |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Wagon |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Belgium |
Manufacturing City | GENT PLANT |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | - |
Engine Size | - |
Engine Cylinders | - |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Volvo V50 Have?
How long will the 2008 Volvo V50 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but included standard cruise control.
Safety was a Volvo hallmark, and the V50 came standard with front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and stability control. Optional safety features included dynamic stability and traction control (DSTC).
Crash-test ratings were generally very good. The NHTSA gave the V50 high marks in frontal and side-impact crash tests. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also awarded the V50 a "Good" rating in its crash tests. It's important to note that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2008, so while the V50 was considered safe for its era, newer vehicles offer more advanced protection. Features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking were not available on the 2008 V50.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Volvo V50 Prices and Market Value
2008 Volvo V50 Cost of Ownership
2008 Volvo V50 Fuel Efficiency
2008 Volvo V50 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Volvo V50 Recalls & Defects
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, and Connections
2008 Volvo V50 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Volvo V50 Compare to Other Wagon?
Alternatives to consider include the Subaru Impreza Wagon for its superior reliability and standard all-wheel drive, and the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen for its more affordable price and fuel efficiency. The Audi A4 Avant offers a more luxurious experience but may be more expensive to maintain. For someone prioritizing reliability and practicality, the Subaru is a better alternative. If style and a touch of luxury are key, the V50 remains a strong contender.
Ranks #1859 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
1859 | 2008 Volvo V50 | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Volvo V50 a Good Wagon?
Small Volvo Enthusiast on July 18, 2018
A KeeperI love this car. It's my sixth Volvo and my favorite. It's nimble, comfortable, and economical. It has more pep than most of the other Volvos I've owned and it handles like a sports car. It's a small wagon with plenty of room for "stuff" and four adults can ride in comfort. I regularly make 600-1300 mile trips in this car and my legs and back feel fine when I get to where I'm going. I'm sorry they no longer manufacture this model. I'm also sorry they don't market a comparable small wagon in the U.S.A. I suppose the V60 is meant to be a successor (after a fashion), but it's a good bit pricier and more car than I need at this point in my life.
NikitasToy on July 18, 2017
AMAZING VOLVO ARE CARS FOR LIFEThis car is ULTRA SAFE the body is like a tank incognito. It's comfortable to drive long distance...i own n driven this car 90K miles n still runs the same.
racyV50 on March 19, 2011
highly recommended (so far)I bought a used 08 V50 with high mileage for its age (56,000) six months ago. So far I have had no issues with the car and it drives like it was new. I did a lot of research about this car and other similar options (A4, mazda 6) and I have to say I am so happy I went with this. It drives precisely with slightly stiff but comfortable ride. Power is adequate for me and can pass with complete confidence with the 2.4 5 cyl. Oil changes every 5000 are great, though more expensive (90ish). The interior is so well done, and the back is pretty roomy for a small wagon. Coming from honda, I still am skeptical about long term reliability of a european car, but I hope for the best. Go with this over a small SUV if you have any passion for driving. We have to bring back the wagon!
dd474 on April 20, 2009
V50The only kick against this is that the back seet is not usable if the driver or front seat passenger are over 5 feet tall.....
pro musician on July 29, 2008
Love it!I just purchased a vehicle used as a dealer loaner with less than 6K on the clock, and I really love it! The car is very comfortable and handles well, and has plenty of storage which is very useful to me. The styling is quite slick for a wagon, and I have had many compliments from my friends.
Volvo first timer on January 9, 2008
Solid CarThis is first Volvo I have ever purchased and I was not too sure I wanted to committ to long term ownership so I leased it. I have had the V50 car for a month a half and it offers many surprising amenities that the larger "luxury" vehicles offer. I have the turbo charged T5 engine and strongly recommend it to interested V50 car buyers out there. The only problem I have is the foot accelerater cleareance seems to be very tight for depressing the gas pedal and between the gas and brake pedels (the same with the S40). I would still recommend the car to others.
Small Volvo Enthusiast on July 18, 2018
A KeeperI love this car. It's my sixth Volvo and my favorite. It's nimble, comfortable, and economical. It has more pep than most of the other Volvos I've owned and it handles like a sports car. It's a small wagon with plenty of room for "stuff" and four adults can ride in comfort. I regularly make 600-1300 mile trips in this car and my legs and back feel fine when I get to where I'm going. I'm sorry they no longer manufacture this model. I'm also sorry they don't market a comparable small wagon in the U.S.A. I suppose the V60 is meant to be a successor (after a fashion), but it's a good bit pricier and more car than I need at this point in my life.
NikitasToy on July 18, 2017
AMAZING VOLVO ARE CARS FOR LIFEThis car is ULTRA SAFE the body is like a tank incognito. It's comfortable to drive long distance...i own n driven this car 90K miles n still runs the same.
racyV50 on March 19, 2011
highly recommended (so far)I bought a used 08 V50 with high mileage for its age (56,000) six months ago. So far I have had no issues with the car and it drives like it was new. I did a lot of research about this car and other similar options (A4, mazda 6) and I have to say I am so happy I went with this. It drives precisely with slightly stiff but comfortable ride. Power is adequate for me and can pass with complete confidence with the 2.4 5 cyl. Oil changes every 5000 are great, though more expensive (90ish). The interior is so well done, and the back is pretty roomy for a small wagon. Coming from honda, I still am skeptical about long term reliability of a european car, but I hope for the best. Go with this over a small SUV if you have any passion for driving. We have to bring back the wagon!
dd474 on April 20, 2009
V50The only kick against this is that the back seet is not usable if the driver or front seat passenger are over 5 feet tall.....