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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  Volvo S-40 ASR - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Mike2000 - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I dont know where all these whiners come from,i have had no issues with my Volvo since day one.Its top of the line ASR with luxury premium winter package.People....do not abuse your cars and it will last without problems.Change oil,do not accelerate heavy on the first 20000 miles.Let it breake-in.Do not assume if it is import luxury you can abuse.Like i have said i had no issues whatsoever.Great handling on the snow with heated seats and DSA.you dont pay a BMW price either and its front wheel drive

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  Volvo #4 is The Worst By Far - 2000 Volvo S40
  By JAMN - April 5 - 12:53 pm

  I have owned four Volvos, ranging from 240DL to a 960 wagon. This 2000 S40 has had so many problems that this is my last Volvo. The red paint comes off on a drying towel after washing. The stereo speakers stopped working. The cabin climate fan just stopped working. What else?: Rattles, check engine light, headlight bulbs, rust forming under hood seam, turn signal malfunctioning, etc. Never again Volvo. Honda, here I come.

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  2000 S40 Review - 2000 Volvo S40
  By DJP - April 2 - 10:00 am

  Poor location for the cup holder and window controls. Outside noise louder than Im use to for a car in this price range and class.

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  Another Success From Volvo - 2006 Volvo S40
  By VolvoNut - March 31 - 6:13 pm

  This is an outstanding car. Having owned four Volvos prior to this one (144, 164, 245, P1800), I have to say that the S40 (T5, AWD, 6-speed) is my favorite. The drivetrain components are solid: strong acceleration, consistent stopping power, and smooth shifting make for an enjoyable driving experience. Unlike the older turbos, this one is not subject to the same kind of shock-cooling that damaged earlier models back in the 80s. The clutch takes some getting used to. It is very light, but it grabs rather quickly. Having endured intense snow in Denver this year, the AWD came in rather handy. With DTSC, it handled beautifully.

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  always in the shop - 2000 Volvo S40
  By usedtobuyamerican - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Not counting tires or oil, maintenance costs: 2004 $1621 2003 $2182 2002 $797 Volvos apparently reach 200k miles by replacing everything on them periodically. Has left me stranded twice!

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  GREAT DRIVE, REPAIR FREQUENT - 2001 Volvo S40
  By ANGRY/NOW IM MAD - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I like the way the car handles, but disappointed with inferior parts. Headlights BRAKES (last 15,000 mi), no auto trunk, window motors, air conditioner leaks on inside, recalls. Had several repairs, some my fault, other have been under warranty, Im at 30,000 mi, what happens at 48,000 mi when warranty expires, I stuck, right?I purchased a volvo for longevity, reliability and safety, instead I got a car I can only sell at a loss and fear of expensive repairs after the warranty expires

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  NEVER BUY A VOLVO - 2000 Volvo S40
  By lopp - March 25 - 11:43 am

  I will never buy another volvo in my life. My car has been in and out of the mechanic shop for various reasons - coil springs, thermostat,sensors, throttle position, etc. Believe it or not my car has even accelerated twice on its own. Talk about a scary situation. The drivers window doesnt go down and interior parts from the sunroof have fallen off.MY radio antenna recently fell off. Last but not least half the lights on the radio no longer work. Thanks volvo for the lemon!

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  Nice Looking, but. - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Paul - March 22 - 5:56 pm

  Too many issues. Mostly electrical, control type problems. In dealership for service far too many times. No reason to do the Volvo experience again

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  IHATEMYVOLVO - 2000 Volvo S40
  By IHATEVOLVO - March 10 - 10:00 am

  This has been the worst car-ownership experience EVER! When I tried to complain to the dealership about the EXPENSIVE maintenance (new brakes, etc.) they sent me a form letter telling me not to come back - even though my car was a LEASE!!!!!!!! I also own 2 Audis (the best) where all maintenance is INCLUDED! Don Beyer and Volvo are the WORST and I tell this to everyone I know (and always will)

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  Great Car! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By TravisScher - March 10 - 10:00 am

  The volvo S40 is really a great value. It has a very luxurios feel to the inside and and a european style outside. It performs very nicely and I have no complaints.