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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  Not all that great - 2000 Volvo S40
  By tnava - October 25 - 10:00 am

  I have one more year to go and I am ready to get something else. I have had to replace the engine, front and rear brakes, and the headlamp bulbs numerous times.

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  love it! - 2002 Volvo S40
  By adchick - October 25 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car a week and love it. It was fluke how I bought it. I have been window shopping for a car for four months. I went to the Volvo dealership to check out the car. When I found out the sticker price and all the safety features, I drove home with the car that night. It has great power -- good decision on adding the turbo. I drive up and down the 405 in california for work and am stuck in traffic a lot. Its a great fun car to be stuck in LA traffic in!

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  Impressed - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Cono - October 24 - 1:26 am

  Purchased this vehicle used certified. Initially skeptical as vehicle was already 4yrs old and 2000 was the intial yr for this model. However, unit only had 25K miles. Ive been extremely happy with the vehicle. Its paid off, and has had minimal problems during ownership. Minor repairs included internal thermostat replacement, exhaust joint component replacement, CD player, and headlight replacement. All repairs were covered under warranty, but would have cost < $300. Recently, Ive noticed some minor oil spotting and some interior lights (buttons) that are not lit - most probably a fuse.

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  Great Experience - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Kamen Dimitrov - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I was not sure what to expect when I went to test drive S40 in 2002. I thought the engine would be 110-130 horsepower, nothing major inside. Well, guess how surprised I was when i drove it and it felt better than the midsize of any other brand, engine, comfort inside, features everything. I enjoy my car, I have been on numerous road trips and I have always loved them. I would recommend that car to any one. Or maybe try the all-new onw

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  Worst Car I Ever Owned - 2003 Volvo S40
  By strack - October 19 - 7:20 pm

  This care has had problem ever since day one. The braking system was replaced, the a/c system replaced (and starting to act up again), splash guard fell down and there was no damage (screws just fell out). Fuel economy gets worse and worse. When the car was new, got 29 MPG on highway, now 25 MPG on highway. Maintenance costs are very high from Volvo for routine maint.

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  5th Volvo - Best Yet - 2006 Volvo S40
  By 06_S40_Owner - October 9 - 8:03 pm

  This is the best Volvo Ive ever owned (240, 850, V70, XC90). It is extremely quick, holds a corner very well, very small turning radius and great fun to drive. I drove every car in this class and this is the best deal for the money. The new 06 Lexus IS feels like you are driving a casket, no sound, no feedback, no feel, wont see the accident coming. The BMW 3 is very nice but much more expensive when equipped the same and has such a vain "look at me, poser" quality not shared by Volvo. Acura suspensions rattle your jaw and bones when rolling over a pebble. This one wins by far just for the feel of driving it.

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  Safest Best Midsize Sedan EVER!!! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Taylormommy - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This car makes me feel safe and secure when driving, especially now that I have a baby. Volvo is built for life and I feel confident trusting my daughter and my own life in the hands of their designers. I could not have asked for a more perfect car, I even had a black leather car seat to match the interior made!!!

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  Miss it a lot - 2001 Volvo S40
  By prodigy1 - September 22 - 8:46 pm

  I bought a 01 s40 with 30k miles on it and NEVER gave me an ounce of trouble. I took very good care of it. The dealers always treated me great when I went in to do major maintenance, such as replace turbo o-rings and timing belt. The dealer prices where not bad at all. Its sad to see so many people had such bad luck with theirs. Unfortunately a year ago my wife fell asleep and flipped it over a couple of times but its a volvo and her and the kids walked away with only seat belt burns. It had 135k miles on it and ran like it was new. I highly recommend this car to anyone. And not all but most of what Im reading in other reviews that are "complaints" are wear and tear maintenance items.

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  New S40 T5 is a great ride - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Morvran - September 14 - 2:00 am

  Volvos used to be too plain for my tastes...but not anymore. From the second you see the new S40 you realize this isnt your mothers Volvo. It has a much more aggressive look than their other sedans (much more so than their older S40s), especially with the sport package. The interior is just as nice. They have changed the navigation system controls for the better. The driver now has more of a joystick on the wheel to cycle through options, which makes it SO easy to use. There is also still a remote control.

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  Fun to drive; lacks pep though. - 2006 Volvo S40
  By thechief - September 5 - 4:06 pm

  I was surprised when I first drove it. The handling feels great although it just needs a bit more power. After the first year, the car wont start after I filled up with gas so I had to call 24-hour roadside support (which I like).