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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  Is it possible to be in LOVE with a car? - 2006 Volvo S40
  By JDLasVegas - August 25 - 10:46 pm

  This is my first Volvo. I was considering BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, even Lexus. Value for dollar, and the fact that the Volvo IS the safest vehicle on the road (I did my homework), it was a clear choice: Volvo. I am in love with this car! The dealership here in Las Vegas treats me like a king. Ive never had such a wonderful car buying experience.

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  s40 VOLVO with premium package - 2004 Volvo S40
  By zoombaby - August 21 - 10:00 am

  The 2004 S40 has good steering capabilities and holds to the road well. It isnt a S60 but for the size of the vehicle it performs just as well as the small BMW and better than the bottom line Mercedes. Free roadside assistance and maintenance for 4 years and the manner in which one is treated at the dealerships service dept. are an added plus.

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  Hated it - 2001 Volvo S40
  By not very happy - August 14 - 1:50 am

  A follow up on a previous review: Now I am at only@ 43k miles, transmission sometimes mis-shifts, service light always comes on! Check engine has been on and off for the past year! Both cup holders have self-destructed! Very strange noises come from engine compartment. Forget about holding coffee in the coffee cup holder because a) it will spill all over radio and console and b) it blocks radio and most of console controls.

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  Great car! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By JB - August 9 - 1:56 pm

  This is the best car I have ever owned. I have always owned 4-cyl cars, and I am amazed at what a difference 1 more cylinder makes. It feels rock solid and handles like a dream. Volvo safety combined with a great look, sporty styling. There is nothing about this car that I dont love - this is not your uncles Volvo!

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  Wow, what are these people talking about - 2000 Volvo S40
  By burcotrut - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I love my S40 and have never had a serious problem with it. Why are people complaining about the size of the car? If you want it to be bigger, get an S60 or 80! Yes, the cupholder position sucks but it has all been changed. This was the first year that the car was released in the US, and is bound to have some design flaws, but they have all been fixed in the newer models. Maybe if people were less abusive with their car, then they would not have problems. Also, the price of maintenance is high because ITS A EUROPEAN AUTOMOBILE!!!! What do you expect. If you cant afford maintenance, buy an american car.

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  Nothing but trouble... - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Volvo Hater - July 28 - 10:00 am

  This car has been in the shop too many times to count. We have almost replaced the whole car piece by piece. Just when we think were finished, something else goes. Fuel pump first 7000 miles,numerous bulbs of every kind,sunroof twice,brakes,brakes,brakes,and headlight wipers. Oh,did I mention brakes? Brakes have failed and makes me feel unsafe. Lots of other repairs on miscellaneous parts. Our service dept. is terrible and the dealer wont help us out of the lease. We are counting down the months until were out! This is one family that wont be buying another Volvo. Also, my daughter thinks its ugly. Maybe because the paint is falling off.

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  Superb Vehicle - 2004 Volvo S40
  By puppytrek - July 28 - 10:00 am

  Totally Cool! This blows the doors off the Accord and Camry I was considering. Mistral Green is beautiful and the fit & finish are excellent. Safety is my main concern and this car line has it all standard. The center control is like a remote-and there is so much you can program. I never have to turn on/off my lights-it does it automatically! The engine is responsive and great on fuel. I will be travelling a great deal and I needed the safety features that I would have had to pay extra for with a different vehicle (not a Volvo). Drive it-you wont regret it.

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  A lot of car for the money - 2005 Volvo S40
  By KateM - July 22 - 10:20 am

  We bought our Volvo S40 T5 FWD new back in October 2004 have had very good luck with it. The 218 HP turbo engine is phenomenal. If youre seeking an adrenaline rush every time you hit the gas pedal, go for the T5 versus the ho-hum 2.4i. Handling is tight with almost no body lean. Highway ramps are a blast. Steering feedback is just right. However, even with TLC, the leather has not worn well at all. The seats are thinner and harder than those in the older S40 model. There is virtually no way to add an iPod adapter, and the ride is harsh. I agree with another owners post that the heated seats do not get warm enough. In my particular S40s case, maintenance has not been an issue

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  Definately not a lemon! - 2000 Volvo S40
  By volvomama - July 19 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my S40 since it was brand new 3years now. True I have replaced my headlights,break pads and have had some oil leaks, but all was covered under warranty. Prior to my Volvo I drove and loved my BMW, but I had to downsize,yet wanted to have a car with a nice reputation and I think pricewise,the S40 was the right choice. Overall, I like my little Volvo,its quick and peppy and when its clean and waxed it looks rather nice. With a new baby (three kids total), I will admit its rather tight in the back. Two more years to pay off and I will consider the new SUV by VOLVO. Have some faith!

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  Overlooked and underrated S40 - 2003 Volvo S40
  By RavCar - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This car is excellent, fun to drive, reasonably sized, had lot of features that were not there in Passat and A4 when I bought this car like side curtain air bags and nice interior. Acceleration is amazing. It responds well. Seats are very comfortable. Radio that allows me to set and store 20 stations and switching stations is as easy as controlling volume. Volvo should try to make this car popular, they dont pay much attention to this car as they do to their other models like S60.