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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  A Mistake - 2000 Volvo S40
  By SCR - September 16 - 11:40 pm

  One thing after another. I have had the care for 2 years, and have spent over $3000 on repairs. Every time I think Im done, something else comes up. Like everyone else, the headlights burn out fast. Looks like most people say their S40 is fast, but mine is sluggish and I cant figure out how the Turbo works. It seems random. I just had to replace the an axle and all motor mounts ($1900). Bad sensors. Check engine light will not go off... Replacement parts are expensive and hard to find. I am selling it, regardless of my loss, and buying a new Civic.

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  s40 and brake pads - 2003 Volvo S40
  By leo22 - September 12 - 11:26 pm

  my s40 has been through 3 sets of rear brake pads in 50,000 miles, and 1 set of rotors. Who ever heard of rear brake pads only lasting 12 to 15 thousand miles. Volvo claims this is normal wear for our pads and that there is no problems with the braking system. I have also replaced the front pads once they seem to hold better. I have also had other miscelanious problems i.e. bad fuel injectors replaced, gas gauge replaced, and several light bulbs. Overall this car has not been a very pleasant experience and I cant wait to get out of my lease.

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  Fun AND Comfortable on long commute - 2006 Volvo S40
  By PA-NYC_Volvo driver - September 6 - 8:23 am

  Never gave Volvo a thought until I test drove this car and was I impressed. I test drove the BVW 3series, Audi, Honda, Acura and was suprised to find that this car was actually fun, quick and handling was comparable to its competitors. Did I mention fun...Hold on when the turbo kicks in...got to remember to lay off the accelerator at times! It maneuvers/responds superbly in and out of tight city traffic or interstate traffic. The one hour drive is very comfortable especially after a 13hr work day. Besides, I couldnt have gotten a fully loaded vehicle w/ so many options I didnt think were necessary but now cant do without for less than 30K....definitely not the other mentioned vehicles

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  Perfect so far - 2007 Volvo S40
  By alice_s40 - September 4 - 9:42 pm

  This was not the car I was shopping for when I bought it, I was looking at a BMW 330ihad they not sold it I would be driving that and complaining about the oil changes. However I currently have 45k on mine, its a stick and its a blast to drive. Mine is red so it attracts the looks and questions. Great gas mileage about 28-32 respectively, its been driven on some back country roads where traction was an issue and handled it great, snow no problem. All I have done is the oil changes, synthetic blend when The light tells me too..great car, fun to drive, has a little road noise but I replaced the tires and so far so good. Now having said all these good things nothing btw go wrong.

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  At this price it a no brainer!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By jammer - September 2 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I just recently purchased our S40 and are quite impressed. The ride and comfort is just great! After driving SUVs and trucks for the past 5 yrs it is a relief to find a vehicle with accelleration, fuel ecomony, and ride comfort in such a inexpensive vehicle. The interior of the car makes you feel like you riding in a luxury vehicle costing $10,000 more. Our S40 has the premium and climate package and was bought for only $22,000!!! Anyone looking at a SAAB 9-3, Audi A4, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, or even a Hyundai XG350, do yourself a favor and look at an S40. Youll find you can save $1,000s when getting the Volvo.

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  At this price it a no brainer!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Jammer - September 2 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I just recently purchased our S40 and are quite impressed. The ride and comfort is just great! After driving SUVs and trucks for the past 5 yrs it is a relief to find a vehicle with accelleration, fuel ecomony, and ride comfort in such a inexpensive vehicle. The interior of the car makes you feel like you riding in a luxury vehicle costing $10,000 more. Our S40 has the premium and climate package and was bought for only $22,000!!! Anyone looking at a SAAB 9-3, Audi A4, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, or even a Hyundai XG350, do yourself a favor and look at an S40. Youll find you can save $1,000s when getting the Volvo.

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  A Mitsubishi at Heart - 2000 Volvo S40
  By yankees481 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  The car is just unacceptably unreliable, possibly cause its not a true volvo. It performs well enough, with a zippy turbo engine, but the brakes, tires, engine all have been problematic. Nothing lasts as long as it should. The power steering failed on me. Right now im looking at having serious engine repairs. Its leaking oil. Its just unacceptable. stay away from this car, especially at this price.

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  Good Volvo Starter Car - 2009 Volvo S40
  By Lee - August 25 - 4:23 pm

  I bought this car after recommendations from friends. I previously owned a Passat. My Passat got 37 MPG (Diesel). My Volvo gets 24+/- (Gasoline). The S40 is very comfortable to sit in and I have a bad back. Im not too thrilled about some of the plastic trim in the interior but overall I like the European attention to detail. Theres not a lot of room in the back seat for adult kids but for little ones, its ok. I like all of the gadgets that come with the purchase price and theres not a lot of options to add on. My Passat lasted 13 years and I fully expect the Volvo to do the same. The dealership is very responsive and attentive. A good car for the money.

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  2000 Review Volvo S40 - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Frank - August 19 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car new in 2000, it has 153,000 miles, serviced every 3,000 miles: Since then replaced (besides normal service items i.e. timing belt, filters, etc.): Front struts Brakes 5 times Front rotors Motor mount Cataylic converter ($1,000) Ignition part Fuel Pressure regulator Turbo seal Car has lousy paint. And, it is important to ensure you have a good 4 wheel alignment for tire life. I guess so long as my repair bills do not exceed new car payments, Ill keep driving it.

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  Awesome first car!!! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Steven - August 18 - 5:23 pm

  This is my very first car. I got it with all options icluding navigation. It is a very quick car and fun to drive. I got black on black and I think it is the best combination and I get looks from young and older people. The upgraded sound system is better than my moms mercedes upgraded sound system and it makes a lot of bass. Im glad I chose this over the bmw 3- series, the Acura TSX, and lexus is300. I would also reccomend the trip to Sweden to test our your car and see the whole process involved in making a volvo. It was very fun and interesting.