opinions on the mid 2000's Volvo v40-50 wagons

[hover]

Hey gents, I was doing some research and poking around a few volvo-specific forums, but it always comes back around to trust in the opinion of my bass brothers.

I currently have 2 Cherokees, and a Subaru Impreza hatchback. The Impreza is a bit too small for gear and people hauling, and one of the Cherokees is not long for this world, the other may be going to my soon to be 16 year old Daughter.

I was looking at relatively sporty wagons, and admit I like to look of the Volvo sport wagons. Thing is, I know nothing about them...I assume repairs, since being under the Ford umbrella, may be reasonable, in spite of it being a euro-import...but what about reliability? Do these have a tendency to nickle and dime? Are they plain not worth the money? What other sporty-wagons would you suggest? I like the VW Jetta wagon, but always hear horror stories associated with the brand. BMW 3 series wagon is a little too spendy. I'm trying to ride the line between reliable and not lookin too dorky...

Thoughts? Suggestions? Carrots?

Anyway, I appreciate your humoring me with this.

[bmc]

www.parkers.co.uk

www.carsurvey.org

www.whatcar.com

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/

Good sites for used car reviews.

[Philbiker]

Volvos of that vintage are not particularly known for their reliability. However, as with many cars, how well it is cared for speaks more to the reliability than the model/manufacturer. A well cared for example probably will do well. I wouldn't buy one because I can't get over the stigma / stereotype of only old people own Volvos. Call me shallow, I just don't like Volvos.

Other sporty wagons - Audi A4 Avant - though I personally wouldn't buy one - be prepared for very expensive routine maintenance. Resale is probably fairly low for an Audi though, so you may find a bargain.

Subaru Legacy GT - in 2005 they went to a powerful turbo engine. Older models have upgraded wheels and suspension but the same boxer engine as the standard Legacy.

For VW - look for their diesel models. Passat and Jetta. Much more reliable than the gas powered bretheren, and great fuel mileage to boot. WV Diesels retain their value very well so they may be expensive on the used market.

Lastly - keep an eye out for a Saab 93 wagon. They are beautiful, sporty, quirky, and fun cars. They have horrible value retention which makes them a great bargain on the used market.

Station wagons in general seem to hold their value quite well.

[James Hart]

I've only owned pre Ford wagons (240, 740 and currently a V70 plus I've owned 3 other non wagons) and I've never found their repair bills to be any worse than the American cars I've owned.

I know nothing of the smaller wagons but just picked up a 99 V70 last week.


My Boss has a 2004 XC70 and got a 2009 XC70 loaner when his was in for some work (didn't mention what he was having done)... he commented that the 2009 felt significantly cheaper than his 2004.

I do like the look of the V50 line.

[blendermassacre]

I think they fall under the "basic transportation" category. Nothing special about them, despite their initial starting price. Sounds pretty decent for what you need, depending on the price.