The estate we’re in

The V50 is the estate version of the saloon S40, essentially a slightly more compact and sleeker V70.

Gone are the wardrobe on wheels stylings of Volvos gone by; instead an angled rear and almost shark-like front-end position the V50 against the premium-badged BMW and Audi estates.

As you would expect from a Volvo, it’s a well-built, solid car, that carries a presence from the outside.

There’s no denying that the V50 is a sizeable family car – and once inside this becomes even more apparent. There is a real feeling of space, whether you are sitting in the front or the back, and there are some really clever design features to accommodate more space, such as integrated storage units and containers.

The dashboard itself is particularly impressive, and being in the driver’s seat is akin to sitting in the cockpit of a jet-fighter – there are buttons and lights and dials absolutely everywhere. Despite the array of technology and electronics in your eyeline, it never feels overwhelming. The controls are intuitive and feature a graphical display for things like temperature and fan speed.

The leather seats are extremely comfortable, with the driver’s fully electronically-adjustable. It seems a little strange that the same comfort isn’t afforded to the passenger seat.

In terms of accessibility, the V50 acquits itself well. The doors open very wide, and the footwells are large enough for someone to curl up and fall asleep in, so anyone who needs wide sills for entry and exit is well accommodated for.

Boot space is rather disappointing for an estate car of this size, although the rear seats do fold down if additional space is needed.

Drive-wise, the V50 is a solid, if unremarkable performer. The suspension is very firm and provides a decent ride, with smooth steering. It is let down slightly, though, by the rather weak engine. The 1.6 engine in the model we drove didn’t feel particularly nippy around town.

All in all, the V50 is a well-built, decent-performing family estate that would be perfect for those needing a bigger vehicle for their access requirements, but not wanting to go the next step with an MPV or WAV.