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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  S40 Good but could be so much better... - 2004 Volvo S40
  By btp - December 11 - 3:40 pm

  I have driven the car on long trips as well as used it as a commuter and the driver comfort is excellent as are the interior features. My S40 is the 5spd manual non-T5 yet I LOVE the responsiveness and handling of the car in all types of weather - and the good mileage! (way better than auto-trans). I got the winter mats (a must for a New England winter) and had the dealer install - those little buttons that hold the mats in place REALLY should be fastened better. The other nag is that I get intermittent wind noise/whistle from somewhere in back. I dread the first rattle - PLEASE dont be a Ford and rattle after 30k miles! -the fuses for the 12volt were dead when I bought it...bummer.

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  Volvo S40 T5 Revoew - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Jim Loukides - December 8 - 2:36 pm

  Since purchasing this car, 2 months ago, it has been back to the dealership 6 for repairs on the radio. I purchased the upgraded stereo, which obviously was a mistake as it never works. When trying to change a station on the radio, after the car has been restarted, the sounds dies and the radio "locks-up". The only way to "un- lock" the radio is by shutting the car off and restarting. Volvo Corp. has been very unresponsive in my concerns about this issue. I will think twice before EVER purchasing another Volvo.

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  lemon, literally - 2006 Volvo S40
  By monicald - November 27 - 4:47 am

  After 1 year I had taken my car in to repair the electrical 5 times, they couldnt do it. At one point the driver door wouldnt open and I had to enter my car through the passenger side. Volvo ended up settling for a good sized pay out. Here is a list of other problems I had with car, none of which were covered by warranty as they occurred just after the 50k warranty was up: 1) engine thermostat never worked 2) due to above, car overheated, replaced radiator reservoir & new thermostat 3) spark plugs replaced 4) door lock covers popped off 5) plastic peeling off control buttons 6) major water leak when rains, floor thoroughly soaked 7) radio shorted out 8) Trunk stuck in closed position

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  A Ford in Sheeps Clolthing - 2006 Volvo S40
  By DMark - November 27 - 1:40 am

  Overall, a good vehicle for the money. Economy is great (were getting 32+ mpg on the open road), and features for a small car are good. The Hallmark of a Ford is crap fasteners, and to that end this s40 wears the Mantle of its once parent company very well. Trunk lid liner fasteners strewn in the trunk, interior panel fastener hanging loose, window base trim. I automatically push it back in now as I reach for the door handle, lower front grill fastener never has been aligned, headlamp washer almost pops back into the correct location, and an external air temp gauge that sporadically reads 20 degrees low (of course, it functions normally at the dealer).

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  A great car if you treat it right. - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Jesse Coley - November 20 - 3:30 am

  I bought this car used with 80,000 miles on it. Its currently pushing 100,000 miles and I have had none of these problems other reviewers keep talking about. My brakes are FINE. The Check Engine light only comes on if I gun the engine while it is still cold, but then the light usually goes back off before the day is over. I had to replace the turbo when I first purchased the car, but Im sure thats why it was for sale in the first place. Turbo cars have special needs. Synthetic oil and letting the engine idle a bit before shutting off the car is a MUST. Im sure the previous owner didnt. Some people complain about bulbs burning out. The solution is to turn off the day-time running lamps.

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  Just Purchased - 2008 Volvo S40
  By ericp - November 19 - 10:53 pm

  I just purchased my S40 in Feb 09. I never thought of owning a Volvo but the dealer had this silver brand new 08, the sticker was $27,400. They let it go for $19,000 so how could I refuse. So far it is a very enjoyable car. Simple and very strong! I wish it had about 20 more HP, however it still is a wonderful car.

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  Awesome car to drive and looks great - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Steves36 - November 16 - 11:00 am

  We bought this the last month and just love it. We opted for all options and used Edmunds for the quote... Wow what a nice feeling buying a car without hassle. The car drives like a champ with the sport package, makes great turns and has good pickup. Back seats are OK, but could be a little bigger but my wife still car pools with 3 people. The warranty cant be beat and to include all routine stuff is great compaired to what we got with my car (Ford). If I had to do it all over again I would without thinking. Its an awesome car at an awesome price

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  The S40, a poor mans BMW 3 series - 2000 Volvo S40
  By graphics_diva - November 1 - 10:00 am

  Overall, this is a great car. Some of the interior items (knobs, handles) scratch and wear poorly. Cup holder and automatic window controls are poorly located. This car goes thru break shoes extremely fast, like every 15K, but to be fair, it stops on a dime. Volvo dealerships treat all car owners like gold, even if you have their lowest priced model as I do. They fix head and tail lights for free and with no argument and will provide a loaner car if only you ask for one. Customer service is a number one priority and they are THE BEST. It is mostly the service that convince me that my next car should also be a Volvo.

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  Bad Car Days - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Lake Jackson Tx. - October 31 - 4:36 pm

  Paint flecking off. Paint scratches easily. Freshly shampooed hair stains the interior. Some kind of coating on interior knobs is coming off and they are sticky. Lightbulbs inside and outside of car are forever going out. Steering rack replaced twice. Air condition will blow hot or cold high and low whenever it feels like it. Check engine light is always on. Problems with the radio. Cruise control works when it feels like it. Console lid is broken. Front cup holder is a joke. Overall do not buy this car! The parts for this car are way over priced.

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  My lonesome 2000 Volvo S40 - 2000 Volvo S40
  By avonbyval - October 18 - 6:22 am

  Once again, my poor Volvo sits and waits for my attention. Bought it 3 years ago with new engine. Absolutely love the way it drives and still do (but not at the moment). Replaced radiator last year. Have blinker problems sometimes. Last problem was weird; the car started to accelerate while we were driving in town, and when I went put it in park the rpms revved up, then turned off the engine. Later that evening we went out to eat and when we first parked, the car revved up again, then I turned the car off. When we came back out the car wouldnt start at all. Didnt sound like a typical timing belt issue, sounded more like it was out of gas. Towed car home. Car sits waiting for me:(