Volvo V50 Sportswagon Gets Hot 218-HP Turbocharged Engine

New Volvo Gets AWD for Optimal Control

If youre not familiar with Volvos V50, its the substantially upgraded next-generation V40 replacement that will debut later this year as a 2005 model.

The base version will get an extremely competent naturally aspirated 168-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder producing up to 166 lb-ft of torque. Being a compact model this should result in spirited performance, especially when mated to the standard 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 5-speed automatic with Geartronic manual-mode sequential shifting will be a good compromise for those who spend more time in traffic than on the open road.

While the base model sounds impressive, enthusiasts will find the brands top-tier V50 T5 even more enticing. A turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder makes up to 218-hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, distributed automatically between the front and rear wheels via an electronically controlled Haldex all-wheel drive power transfer system.

The standard transmission, which was initially developed for Volvos S60 R and V70 R, features six forward gears for superior performance. The top model will offer an optional 5-speed automatic gearbox as well, which like the base engine also features the Swedish manufacturers Geartronic sequential mode.

"The T5 engine and all-wheel drive give the V50 model great performance and extremely enjoyable road manners," comments V50 project manager Peter Ewerstrand. "Top-class performance is combined with responsive, stable driving characteristics."

Volvo reports that the new turbocharged 2.5-L is "one of a new generation of low-friction, five-cylinder engines that are considerably lighter and more compact than previous engines of the same displacement."

Smaller and lighter are words that are close to the heart of import car enthusiasts, making it possible to stick a 5-cylinder engine where a 4-cylinder could only go previously. The compact size also allows for improvements in weight distribution and the obvious reduction in overall curb weight.

"Making room for a five-cylinder engine in a compact body is something of a work of art," Ewerstrand added. "We have succeeded by using new methods to reduce the exterior dimensions of the engine."

Some of the engines specific space-saving modifications include exhaust manifold outlets that are angled down toward the engine block, while those same manifolds are cast together with the turbo unit housing for greater space efficiency. The size reduction program caused Volvo engineers to redesign the air conditioning compressor, alternator, and water pump, to better fit into the V50s marginalized engine bay.

The engine also features twenty valves total, plus dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) to increase output and throttle response. Whats more, variable camshaft timing (CVVT) is part of the package, effectively improving power and torque while benefiting fuel economy figures as well as emissions.