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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  Loving this Volvo - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Justin - April 25 - 11:46 pm

  I am in love with this Volvo. The car handles amazingly. It rides firm as if it were built for performance only, but doesnt loose the luxury car feel. The power of the turbo inline 5 is excellent, and handles the mountains of western PA like no other car I have owned.

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  intro. to sport sedan - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Daniel Dingo - April 22 - 9:36 pm

  The 2005 volvo s40 is a great intro. level sports sedan. For under $25,000 the s40 gives you a great unique design and comfort. The 2.5L engine is under powered for this car, and the lack of power doesnt give you a good fuel economy in this case. I am getting about 18-20 mpg for city and highway. The s40 have one of the best features for safety, it drives like a Toyota camry but it have to look of a great sport coupe.

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  Great Re-Design! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Shrop - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Excellent exterior and interior redesign. Center console looks like a B&O design - very cool! Excellent exterior paint, & interior fit & finish. Very quiet ride, firm but, not too firm of ride, excellent fuel economy, good handling and great brakes. Compared to other Euro cars, a very good value @ $25K +. So far, we really enjoy this Volvo (our last one was a 740 wagon).

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  :thumbs up: - 2003 Volvo S40
  By Student Lee - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I was trying to decide on whether I should buy a new S40, new A4, or new 325i. Just by looking at hp/curb weight or tq/curb weight, the S40 is way ahead of the two. It beats both the A4 and 325i in torque (a fat torque band) while weighing in at under 2800lbs, while the other two are above 3200lbs. This makes a HUGE difference. Although this car is obviously not aimed at being a performance vehicle, it still handles well. The 325i or A4 may beat the S40 in an AutoX course (325 being FR and A4 being awd), but it really doesnt matter since this car will not be raced. I just wanted a sensible car that drives and looks nice.

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  Great Car - 2008 Volvo S40
  By Jennifer - April 13 - 4:36 pm

  The VOLVO S40 AWD Tubo is awesome. I enjoy every mile I have done so far. It drives well, handles well and is a attractive looking car. I highly recommend the VOLVO S40. It is a great driving experience.

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  Is it held together with plastic screws? - 2005 Volvo S40
  By stephen3484 - April 10 - 6:13 pm

  What a piece of junk. I have owned many cars (German and American) and this one is just awful. I have 21000 miles on it but it drives like there are 121000 miles on the clock. A/C problems; stereo has a mind of its own; creaks, rattles, and shakes; the windows have a mind of there own; the gas gauge is unreliable; the ABS doesnt work; the whole steering system is screwed up and the list goes on. The car has gotten to the point where the steering and lack of ABS have made it almost unsafe and definitely unsettling to drive.

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  Excellent Choice - 2004 Volvo S40
  By kgun - April 10 - 10:00 am

  This car caught my attention and it keeps growing on me every time I drive it. It handles excellently and has enough power to keep up with everyone else.

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  Happy with my S40 - 2001 Volvo S40
  By gurgstar - April 1 - 7:13 pm

  I have owned the 2001 S40 for about a year and a half. Contrary to many of the other reviews (many of which pertain to the 2000 model anyway, which I know had more issues), I havent had any service problems with mine, aside from the "Check Engine" light coming on once. The car handles well, and the engine is powerful (though my previous car was a V6 and I do miss the V6 a bit). My only complaint would be the that the interior controls (climate and radio) are poorly designed.

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  2005 S40 - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Horsefeeder - March 23 - 9:36 pm

  This is definitely a great/cheaper alternative to the A4, if performance is not your thing. The base 2.4 has little zip, but handles very well - except on the highway. The gas tank, though listed at 16 gallons, is actually only 12 due to a poor design which placed a hump in the gas tank to allow for the AWD option. Instead of a 350+/- range, its more like 260, which means more trips to the gas station (thank Ford for that!). Great trunk space, lots of leg-room in the back seat, fold-down back seat provides tons of cargo space for such a small car. If youre used to a 4-cylinder, get the base 2.4, but if youre used to a 6-cylinder, get the T5 or else youll be bored out of your mind!

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  Lemon Volvo - 2005 Volvo S40
  By LF - March 23 - 4:06 am

  I loved my S40...for about 6 months. It has less than 7K miles on it. They couldnt find the leak that flooded the front passenger floor..found it...replaced the windshield..with a (nother) defective windshield. Now this is the 2nd time its in the shop with the Check Engine light illuminated. I traded in my 7 year old Honda Civic that didnt have ONE issue in the entire time I owned it (aside from routine maintenance). I wish I had it back.