Overview & Reviews

German car companies have long been the dominant players in the compact sport sedan market. The Volvo S40, introduced to the North American market in 2000, was the Swedish brand's first stab at stealing some market share. Though it had its shortcomings, the S40 was a decent small sedan that helped redefine Volvo's image. Instead of the standard boxy shape once associated with Volvos, the S40 had a sleeker silhouette and was relatively fun to drive.

Volvo released the improved second-generation S40 midway through 2004. Styling is sportier and more refined, as are the car's ride and handling dynamics. Additionally, there are now two engine choices, including a turbocharged five-cylinder. Though it still doesn't have the prestige or athleticism of its German competition, the latest Volvo S40 costs less and still offers plenty of refinement, comfort and style.

Current Volvo S40
The Volvo S40 compact sport sedan is available in two trim levels -- T5 and T5 R-Design. Both are front-wheel drive and powered by a turbocharged 227-horsepower 2.5-liter five-cylinder. A five-speed automatic is the sole transmission.

Standard feature highlights include a sport suspension, a telescoping steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls, a sunroof, Bluetooth and a six-CD changer with satellite radio, HD radio and iPod control. The "R-Design" adds sporty exterior and interior styling cues. Options include leather seating, heated seats, a navigation system and a 12-speaker premium sound system.

Inside the S40, the seats, dash and panels look upscale and classy, and the ultra-slim center stack design makes a fashion statement while adding to the car's functionality. The driving position is snug and comfortable, but adults seated in the rear might find legroom tight.

In reviews, our editors have found the Volvo S40 entertaining to drive thanks to its turbocharged engine and lively handling. But the S40 just doesn't do much else to distinguish itself. Whether you're looking for the latest technology features, sportier performance, better fuel economy or just a more prestigious image, you'll likely find a better choice for a premium or entry-level luxury sedan.

Used Volvo S40 Models
The present second-generation Volvo S40 was introduced midyear as a 2004.5 model. (A related wagon variant is called the V50.) Compared to the current model, the S40 hasn't received major changes since then, but you'll want to pay attention to the various updates over the years when shopping for a used model.

Up until 2010, Volvo offered a base 2.4i model. It came with a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-5 rated for 168 hp and 170 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged T5 was a bit less powerful from the debut until 2007 than it is now; it made 218 hp. You might also encounter a model with a manual transmission; Volvo intermittently offered a manual for both the base 2.4i and T5 over the years. All-wheel drive was also available for the T5 through 2010.

There have been a few important equipment changes as well. Stability control became standard on all S40s for 2007, and upgraded audio components and the new blind-spot monitoring system joined the roster for '08. The '09 model received a slew of former options as standard equipment.

The first-generation Volvo S40 sport sedan debuted for 2000. It came with a turbocharged 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine that made 160 hp and 170 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the front wheels, and there was no manual transmission or AWD option. Standard features included ABS, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and heated mirrors, while features like leather upholstery and a power driver seat were optional. In 2001, Volvo added safety features to the S40 and made minor styling changes to the headlights and interior. The company also brought out a new five-speed automatic transmission. For 2003, power was increased to 170 hp, and a CD player became standard. In 2004, Volvo added an LSE trim to the lineup to sustain interest in the car until the current generation launched later in the year.

In reviews of the first-generation Volvo S40, we noted that it was a competent small sedan but nonetheless a tough sell over the less expensive but comparably upscale turbocharged or V6-powered Volkswagen Jetta. If you're interested in buying a used S40 of this vintage, we'd recommend going with one from '03 or later, as these models benefited from the abovementioned mild power bump and standard CD player.

User Reviews:

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  Great Car! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Rodriguez - April 5 - 11:16 pm

  Bought this car a month ago. We are surpised at how many features it has. We are still discovering some of the thoughtfulness in the design. The car has a lot of power and seems to perform better the faster you go. The interior design feels roomy, and the console seems to wrap around you. This car definitely turns heads. Very sexy!

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  Nothing Else For Me - 2005 Volvo S40
  By S40 - So Cal - April 2 - 9:43 pm

  This S40 is sweet, strong, rugged, sleek and stylish, need I say more? Stops when you need it to stop, accelerates when you need a push, and shows itself off at every corner; this puppy has bragging rights! Never a bad moment here and nothing bad to say at all. Proves itself all the time, to trust it with my wife and future kids; always! My first Volvo and my last time to ever have to choose another car maker! First class!

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  Moving On Up - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Jay, New York - March 28 - 8:10 pm

  I only drove Hondas for the past 15 years and felt it was time for a change. Frankly, the Hondas are good, but everybody has one. The new Volvo S40s design caught my eye right away. Once I test drove it, I was sold. Im not a car freak and drive to/from work (about 45 miles a day) and run some errands on the weekends. I wanted a car that was fun and put some spark back into my daily commute. Boy, has this car filled the bill. My friends compliment me on its great looks, and thats a real switch. Look, Im 43 and honestly a car is not going to change my life, but you know what, who says you cant have a little fun even when work and little league are your usual destinations.

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  DONT BUY S40 - 2002 Volvo S40
  By JUMUNJI - March 15 - 10:00 am

  PROBLEMS FROM DAY 1. I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH PRETTY MUCH EVERYTHING WITH THIS CAR. BRAKES, LIGHTBULBS, TIRES, SUSPENSION, AIR CONDITIONER, MOTOR MOUNTS, FRONT END SHAKES AND VIBRATES REALLY BAD, ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON ALL THE TIME WITH THE BRAKE LIGHT. THE MECHANICS AT THE DEALERSHIP ARE NOT UP TO SPEED.

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  First Car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Doogie Macmillan - March 6 - 5:40 pm

  This is my first car and i think it is great. I already got in an accident in my first week and it held up great. The other persons car was totaled (it was a saab). I got it full loaded and it was worth every penny. The Nav is easy to use while driving. The sound system is great going down the street listening to 50 cent. I just bought 18 inch chrome rims and the car looks even better. I could not ask for a better car for a 17 year old.

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  Volvo Ultimate Drive - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Anad - March 6 - 10:00 am

  This is an extremely comfortable and fun drive.

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  I love my Volvo S40 - 2001 Volvo S40
  By youareslow - March 2 - 2:00 am

  I leased the S40 after comparing it to a Jetta GLS. The Volvo came out to be $10 more a month for the same term and down payment. Im glad I paid the extra 10 bucks. I love the Volvo. It is a solid car with a lot of zip and is reasonable on gas. The interior is top quailty and the fit and finish is great. The only problem I have had in the first 20k is one of the head lamps went out. The dealer replaced both under warranty and the service was great. If you are looking for something a little different this is a great car.

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  Good car but... - 2005 Volvo S40
  By letodo - February 9 - 2:12 am

  Safety- big win here- got swiped by a Lexus LX trying to get into my lane- nothing but a tiny scratch. Rear ended by a Honda- the front bumper of the Honda was torn off but I only had a small scratch. Performance- no, it is not a BMW 3 series but it does 80% of what the BMW does for $10,000 less (compared with same options). Ride is a bit harsh. Reliability- flawless since I got it... until recently. Ignition switch, engine motor mount, engine speed sensor all failed at once. Parasitic draw from trunk wiring 2 months prior to that. Running costs- expensive (more on that below)

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  Best bang for the buck! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By jim - January 31 - 11:16 pm

  I have 61,000 miles on this car & definitely would buy again. Combination of acceleration, handling, traction, features is a good value. Have the daltec interior & prefer it to the leather. 23-25 mpg and I am an aggresive driver. Had two software "tweaks" at the dealer, and a bearing replaced (all under warranty. Otherwise, no problems at all.

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  Awesome car - 2007 Volvo S40
  By redskins5926 - January 28 - 12:46 pm

  The Volvo S40 has been a great car for me. I got the base model with only the automatic transmission, but it still comes with a lot of features like keyless entry, CD player, etc. When I first got the car, the fuel economy seemed pretty lousy, but 5 months and 5000 miles later it seems to have improved tremendously. I have taken 87 octane since day one and the car performs quite well with it. The pickup is terrific for the 2.4L engine, although once or twice I have had to floor the pedal in order to make a quick pickup on a freeway merge. The handling of the car is quite good as well, although during sharp turns the car feels slightly wobbly... definitely not firm as a BMW 3-series.