2011 Volvo V50: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Volvo V50 is that every model uses the 227-hp turbocharged five-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic. The lineup also shrinks to two trims for this final U.S. model year.
About the 2011 Volvo V50
First-generation V50 for the US market (2005-2011), late-cycle final US model year after the larger 2008 styling and interior update.
Volvo positions the V50 as a compact premium wagon for active drivers who want more flexibility than a small sedan without moving up to a larger wagon or SUV. The core appeal is a mix of turbo power, a design-forward Scandinavian cabin, strong front-seat comfort, built-in cargo versatility, and Volvo’s safety-first engineering. Compared with rivals, the V50 leans less on outright luxury and more on stylish practicality, supportive seating, and an easy-to-live-with size.
The T5 Sport is the understated core model, with strong turbo power, Bluetooth, driver-seat memory, and flexible folding seats for carrying longer items. The T5 R-Design Sport adds a firmer suspension, a unique body kit, leather-trimmed sport seats, blue gauges, and distinctive cabin trim.
What changed, by category
2011 Volvo V50 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 5-Spd Geartronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 46.2 cu-ft | 46.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.4 in | 34.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Volvo V50?
The biggest change is that turbo power and the five-speed automatic became standard across the entire 2011 V50 lineup. Every model has the 227-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine.
Which trims make up the 2011 Volvo V50 lineup?
The 2011 V50 lineup consists of the T5 Sport and T5 R-Design Sport. The non-turbo 2.4i Sport was dropped, and the turbocharged T5 Sport became the new entry trim.
How is the 2011 V50 T5 R-Design Sport different from the T5 Sport?
The T5 R-Design Sport uses the same engine and automatic transmission but has a firmer sport suspension, an R-Design body kit, leather-trimmed sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and blue gauges. It also has a power front passenger seat.
Was the 2011 Volvo V50 redesigned?
No, the 2011 V50 was not redesigned. It is a late-cycle update to the first-generation model, with a simplified trim lineup, standard turbo power, and modest equipment and styling changes.
Is the 2011 Volvo V50 the final U.S. model year?
Yes, 2011 is the final U.S. model year for the Volvo V50. It remains part of the first-generation V50 sold in the United States from 2005 through 2011.