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:

• 

  Comfortable car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By noniriches83 - July 10 - 8:06 pm

  Im a housewife, I love driving this car, its my current car, the 2002 year made. I find this car comfortable and fun to drive. Handles well, very good cornering and very responsive brake. And also the turbo gives enough power to get into traffic when you need it. :) VOLVO S40 is a 5stars rating for the safest car.

• 

  I love this car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By stargate - June 25 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy driving this car - it is just my size, very comfortable, I havent had any problems since I got it. It is a bit small for my husband though. I really like the features and safety, the car accelerates well, I get a good gas mileage.

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By John - June 25 - 7:50 am

  The car gets compliments every where I go. The price is fair, looks great inside and out, and drives like a well tuned sports sedan.

• 

  LUVIT - 2001 Volvo S40
  By TIQSURF - June 19 - 10:00 am

  Love this car. Very reliable with enough getup to get on the freeway easily thanks to the turbo. Great mileage in town and out of town as well. I love the style and all the safety features as well.

• 

  great care, great price - 2005 Volvo S40
  By harvey - June 4 - 7:30 am

  i was shocked to read about all of the problems some people have had with their s40. the only problems ive had with mine are the ones i caused - i got a little too close to at trash can on the side of the road and cracked my mirror (but only the glass, the motor was fine), ran over a nail and got a flat, cracked my oil pan backing down a driveway even though i was extremely careful (i guess the car is a little low for a sedan). other than that, NO problems. i love harvey (my car)! super fun to drive and plenty of power. on a road trip to vegas i was approaching nascar speeds - and i dont have the more powerful turbo engine.

• 

  Too many problems for the cost - 2008 Volvo S40
  By chicommuter - June 2 - 6:49 pm

  I purchased this car in 2011 with only 16,000 miles and had it back in the shop within 3 weeks to fix the driver side door which wouldnt latch. Subsequently have had it in the shop twice (wouldnt start due to programming issue and grinding noise while cornering). Now have to replace all tires @ 30k miles which the shop told me is common for this model.

• 

  Still Smiling - 2005 Volvo S40
  By CJF - June 1 - 5:23 pm

  Purchased the S40 T5 at the beginning of August, 2004. Ten months and 13000 miles later, I still smile every time I see my S40 in the parking lot or garage. I had also considered the Acura TSX, Infiniti G35 and Honda Accord V6 coupe - and have no regrets over my decision. The low end torque provided by the turbo means fun starts any time I want them. The sport suspension provides crisp cornering and keeps the car headed where I want it to go. While a compact car, the back seat is still large enough to haul three teen agers around town comfortably.

• 

  Love this CAR!!! - 2008 Volvo S40
  By cwilsong - May 22 - 3:33 pm

  Just finished one year with my S40 awd and I can say for the first time in a LONG time I really LOVE my car and feal I got a great deal as well. Loads of power, fun to drive and very quiet. Probably even has a better sound system than I have at home. Best part though was that we did an OSD and picked up the car direct from the factory. Not only got exactly the car I wanted at a better price than here but got to spend 3 weeks driving it around Europe. If you are thinking about any Volvo you owe it to your self to look into OSD. Not all dealers push it as they get a fixed fee for handeling the sale but there are several Internet dealers out ther that can help you.

• 

  Loved my 6 spd. T5 but not again for me - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Eric - May 20 - 8:06 am

  Let me start by saying I am a longtime Volvo owner (2 S60s, 940T & T5) who always wanted this car. My T5 was the perfect car when it wasnt at the dealer for every little interior/electrical thing. The motor was GREAT and VERY fuel efficient (30+ mpg) Tons of torque, very comfortable, safe, handled good, very classy and different. Really loved this car but it was a royal headache of tiny issues (10 dealer repairs in 1 year...all different interior/electrical quirks). Being a Volvo owner I was used to little problems but it was a huge inconvenience spending all my time at the dealer (probably once a month). I still love that car but I sold it when the warranty ran out. Really a shame.

• 

  Great at first, all down hill - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Tony - May 20 - 6:03 am

  When I purchased it it was great and reliable. Since then Ive had the radio glitch which is very annoying. Ive had the A/C repaired it stopped blowing cold air. Im a 200 Lb. guy and the back of my seat where the lumbar support is snapped. I have the dynamic trim package which as the sport suspension not a very comfortable ride when you hit bumps in the road. Ive had lowered cars ride more comfortable than this. My power door locks dont lock from the remote anymore. Now after almost 5 years Im about to sell this car it was a good car but I wouldnt buy another Volvo.