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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  Love it - 2006 Volvo S40
  By FL driver - February 28 - 1:20 am

  A great ride overall, but lack of solution for ipod connectivity is very frustrating. Still recommend as a great value and a fun/sporty ride.

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  safe - 2005 Volvo S40
  By ANGELO - February 26 - 10:56 pm

  hard down-shift from 3rd to 2nd automatic. expensive maintenance

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  Better than my A4 - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Frankie76 - February 26 - 4:03 am

  If you going to buy an S40, go with the turbo. This model has a much better performance than the 2.41 engine. I had an 03 A4 1.8. which I traded for the S40. I have not looked back!! From quality to performance and of course safety, it beats my Audi in all categories. I first drove this car as a company car, leased 2004.5 2.4i. I recently turned it back as I had put 40,000 miles. That car had absolutely no problems. Other than the scheduled maint.

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  disapointed - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Issa - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Having no previous experience in leasing I have been talked into a lease at $ 369/month for four years and 2000 down. Comparing it to $299/month that someone else on this list is getting it seems very high. Have I been taken? Also the ride is very tough : feels like grinding the texture of the road. On highway I feel like jumping up and down as if in a toy car. Nothing like the smooth ride on my old Honda Accord.

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  THE MOST AWSOME CAR - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Jeff - February 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car brand new, and have found it to be the car that spoils me. I love this car soo much that I made it my garage queen, she is polished and stored. We take her out on vacations and long trips. She is our total luxary/sport car. THANK YOU VOLVO!!

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  All I ever asked for! - 2001 Volvo S40
  By MY S40 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  My S40 is exactly what I wqas looking for...no problems thus far, EXCEPT the trunk light went out...no biggie. The car has great handling and acceleration

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  worst car ive ever owned - 2003 Volvo S40
  By dunx - January 31 - 2:00 am

  i purchased this car in january, 2000, because my wife "had to have it". back brakes went out after 15k mi and ruined rotor. a/c stops working w/continuous use (2 hours driving). headlight go out every 10k mi. sunvisors are stuck in down position. check engine light is on contiously-no one knows why. maintenance is expensive even for european car. the suspension rattles until the car has warmed-up (?!?). headlight socket broke when light replaced (3rd time)-dealer says its my problem since the warranty is out.

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  Volvo - 2000 Volvo S40
  By S40 John - January 18 - 7:00 am

  Yes this car has its problems, every car does. For the most part the pluses outweigh problems. The styling is classic, Its very fast and fun to drive. Huge sunroof, amazing on gas, fits anywhere and AMAZING in the snow (was as good as my 4wd Jeep I owned). Aside from keeping up on things that break from time to time, its a very solid/safe smaller car.

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  Disappointed - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Maggie - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car because I thought Volvo would make the smoothest driving, most reliable car out there. Not exactly true. I have had to replace the engine block, rear brakes, and headlights. Had to fix minor repairs to windows, visor mirror and many rattles. This models interior is not very convenient - cup holder and window controls. Also, just had a baby and car seat barely fits. Trading it in for something bigger.

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  Great car - true Volvo reliability? - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Luke - January 10 - 12:40 am

  Ive had the car for about 3 months and am a fairly satisfied customer. I spent several months debating between an Audi A4, BMW 325xi and finally settled on the S40. Considering cost, performance, reliability, etc., the Volvo appeared to come out on top. The car worked flawlessly until last week - 2 fault codes: #4 injector failure and evaporative canister purge. Lets hope the dealership service is as good as its reputation. Only drawback so far - poor fuel economy, even with 91 octane. 21 city, 26 hwy @ 65 mph. Still optomistic at this point.