Some V50 design characteristics were borrowed from early Volvo wagons. Still, styling hasn't veered dramatically away from the V40. Volvo notes that "from above, the body resembles the shape of a sleek speedboat, with a rounded prow, a broad mid-ship section and a narrowing stern."

Designed with softly rounded lines overall, the V50 has a short hood and a cab-forward profile, led by a protruding upright eggcrate grille with a diagonal cross-member. Outside mirrors contain turn-signal repeaters.

Built on a 103.9-inch wheelbase, the V50 is 177.7 inches long overall — 1.8 inches longer than the S40 sedan. Several aluminum wheel styles are offered. A Dynamic Trim Package for the T5 adds 17-inch aluminum wheels and front, rear and side spoilers.