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 s40 review - 2000 Volvo S40
  By luv my volvo - June 15 - 2:03 pm

  I was so sad to read all the bad reviews of the volvo s40s. My 2000 s40 has been wonderful! I have changed the oil, brakes, tires and battery and that is it!! This car has been great to me! My car has 95,000 miles and still runs great!

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  Fantastic Ride - 2004 Volvo S40
  By smokeone - June 15 - 10:00 am

  So far it is fantastic! We wanted a car with loads of safety features, but we also like quick and sporty. The S40 is all of the above and really not much more expensive than the competitors, considering the great build quality.

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  mostly positive - 2000 Volvo S40
  By prlady1 - June 14 - 12:43 am

  I really like the car; its relatively fun to drive, cute and comfortable. However, two things really bug me: 1. The light bulbs are always burning out. 2. The openings of the trunk and the rear doors are too small to fit large items inside, even though the storage capacity is adequate.

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  Fun To Drive If Not In Shop - 2000 Volvo S40
  By tak - June 7 - 10:00 am

  The car is definitely fun to drive but the minor problems that require it to be in the shop so often is a real nuisance. Examples are fading volume in radio (replaced once but problem is still there), faulty brake and check engine lights, AC makes funny noise, rattling of sideview mirrors at 65mph, replaced all four brakes @20,000 miles, replaced headlights @15,000 miles, etc. This car has only 32K miles and has been in the shop more often than my Geo Prism, which has 160K miles.

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  Disappointed - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Disappointed in MI - June 7 - 10:00 am

  Purchased car because of Volvos reputation and great price for the options. I had to change brakes after 1st year, and Im looking at another replacement on this second year. Dealer confessed that Volvo had a poor braking design warranteed the first set of brakes. Cup hold is in the way of the radio.

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  wow - 2004 Volvo S40
  By wilfork - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the Audi a4, BMW 3 series, Acura TL, and Saab, but this car had by far the most bang for the buck. Amazing handling, nice pickup and a beautiful new body. I cant imagine getting this much car for this low of a price.

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  VOVLO S40tay - 2003 Volvo S40
  By L Petri Design - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car, great price!!!!

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  Volvo s40 t5 extended test drive - 2005 Volvo S40
  By adzling - May 23 - 10:00 am

  I had the pleasure of driving a loaded 05 t5 for a couple weeks around the SF Bay area recently and came away very impressed. For comparison I test drove the g35 sedan, Audi A4, Subaru WRX and Passat V6; still the s40 came away w/ higher marks in imho. I had the opportunity to push it up to 125 and do some high speed mountain driving to test its road holding and passing prowess. Succeeded admirably w/out complaints nor any noticeable under/ oversteer or turbolag. This car loves to go. Ride was a good compromise between road- holding and comfort, though if it was me I would have stiffened the suspension slightly.

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  Great Volvo - 2002 Volvo S40
  By northland - May 19 - 2:00 am

  A practical size car thats easy to manuver for the kids as they have started to drive and peace of mind for mom and dad when the kids go for a drive. Fit and finish good quality though not that of our S80, XC70 or previous Volvos. The safety features, layout, and feel very similar to our other Volvos. No problems to report on.

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  Do not buy this car. - 2007 Volvo S40
  By rukewlguy - April 26 - 5:40 am

  I have purchased a Volvo s40 sedan White. I am a casual commuter who does not abuse my car at all. I do full recommended service from Volvo, which costs around $200 - $500 per recommended service. Within 1 year, my car had following problem: 1. Sudden electrical malfunction 2. Sudden deterioration of ride 3. Engine started to make noises and rpm was going up and down by itself 4. Finally, car did not start when it was 11 month old and had about 15,000k on it. These guys never respond to your complaints. So upset with this car and company. Do not buy this car!