2009 Volvo V50: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Volvo V50 is a streamlined two-trim lineup with much more standard equipment. The turbo AWD model also gets standard R-Design styling and sport hardware, while both engines and the 5-speed automatic carry over.
About the 2009 Volvo V50
First-generation V50 (U.S. 2005-2011), second model year after the 2008 refresh that revised the front end, rear styling, interior details, and safety feature set.
Volvo positioned the V50 as its most attainable sports wagon: a compact premium wagon for active drivers and small families who wanted real cargo flexibility without moving up to a bulkier SUV. Its core appeal was a mix of Volvo safety, supportive seats, clean Scandinavian cabin design, and wagon usefulness in a smaller footprint. In this class, the V50 stood out by pairing flat-fold cargo flexibility with either a smooth non-turbo five-cylinder or a faster turbo AWD setup.
The 2.4i Sport is the practical, comfort-focused V50, with a 168-hp five-cylinder engine, Bluetooth, a moonroof, a power driver’s seat, and a fold-flat front passenger seat. The T5 Sport is positioned as the T5 AWD R-Design, pairing a 227-hp turbo five-cylinder with all-wheel drive, sport suspension, heated front seats, and distinctive R-Design body trim.
What changed, by category
2009 Volvo V50 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 5-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 5-Spd Geartronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 165–168 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 32.3 cu-ft | 32.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.4 in | 34.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 Volvo V50 a redesign?
No. The 2009 V50 is an equipment-and-trim update within the first generation, following the exterior, interior, and safety refresh introduced for 2008.
What is the main difference between the 2008 and 2009 Volvo V50?
The 2009 V50 has a simpler two-trim range with more equipment fitted as standard. Its turbo AWD model also comes with R-Design styling and sport suspension, while the engines and 5-speed automatic remain unchanged.
What equipment changed on the 2009 Volvo V50 2.4i Sport?
The 2009 V50 2.4i Sport gained a large group of standard features that had previously been package content, including Bluetooth, a power moonroof, a power driver’s seat, upgraded audio, and fog lights.
What makes the 2009 Volvo V50 T5 Sport different?
The 2009 V50 T5 Sport is the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive R-Design model. It combines a 227-hp five-cylinder engine with sport suspension, heated front seats, driver-seat memory, and unique exterior and interior trim.
Did the 2009 Volvo V50 receive new safety equipment?
Yes, rear seat belt reminders were added across the 2009 V50 lineup. There was no major new crash-avoidance system added as standard.