2010 Volvo V50 Powershift
Vehicle: 2010 Volvo V50 2.0 Powershift
Price as tested: CDN$32500
If you are regular Directshift reader, you probably know we are huge fans of sportswagon and double clutch gearbox. Given Volvo is the master of producing practical sportswagon, with the infusion of their new double clutch gearbox called Powershift. What is the end result?
Ever since Audi innovated the Direct Shift Gearbox in the Mk1 TT 3.2 Quattro, we have been smitten by its efficiency and speed provided by the double clutch concept. In the case of Volvo, its gear engagement and clutch blipping between shifts are as good as anything from Audi. The rev match when downshift is quick without losing all the compousure one expects from Volvo. As for upshift, Volvo engineers have done a marvelous job for second clutch to engage the even gears. They have also given Powershift the same shifting feedback as traditional automatic gearbox with torque converter, which in turn, appeal to those traditional Volvo clients. In the past, we have criticized Volvo’s manual shift gate as too stiff to up and downshifts. Volvo have addressed that issue with Powershift for giving it a crisp shift gate. But, as always there is a but. The Powershift doesn’t come with a proper steering paddle shifters. That means whether any driver would do an up or downshift through the gates is beyond me.
In terms of driving experience, Volvo has always been about benign yet safe dynamics. All these combined together make a very secure and civilized car to drive. However, its definitey can’t be considered as a driver’s car. It just makes the V50 feels sporting due to its sports suspension, instead of sporty as some of its German competitors do.
The 145hp and 157 lb/ft of torque have given V50 a decent enough performance, especially with the Powershift. The level of refinement and flexability are a delightful surprise given how sluggish the previous 2.0 liter in the outgoing V40. It makes for a much more inspiring drive for those who are looking for a comfortably riding wagon.
Even for a company as conservative as Volvo, the double clutch gearbox has served a wonderful purpose of combining excellent fuel economy. Our V50 tester comes in at a porky 1890kg but return a respectable 9.5 liters per 100km during all city driving. As well as environmental friendliness which is what Volvo is famous for. Combined with a comfortable interior and a cargo space which makes SUV redundant, this 2.0 would serve as a good base engine for V50 for years to come.
Likes:
Practical and versatile wagon
Competent ride and handling
Comfortable
Dislikes:
Not as much fun-to-drive as its rivals
Cramped backseat
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