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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  Never Again... - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Car Owner - April 6 - 10:00 am

  Cant even begin to tell you how many problems Ive had. Bought at 91k miles, now at 100k. Within this time have had the tensioner, timing belt, motor mounts, alternator, brakes, spark plugs, coils, pressure valve, and some other hose replaced. Would love to buy a newer car, but cant get approved so I pay the costs to fix this POS. Dont buy this car. Has been in and out of the shop every month for the past six months. COstly to fix.

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  starting problem - 2005 Volvo S40
  By barry - March 31 - 8:33 pm

  i have a 2005 s40 s.41 base model with 5 speed. i have 2300 miles on it and it has been back to the shop twice so far. both times it wouldnt start and had to be towed. the 1st time they replaced the starter relay switch. now they say its the battery. anyone else have this problem or know what the problem really is? or do i just have a lemon

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  WAY more bang for the buck... - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Brian - March 12 - 3:40 am

  I use this primarily as an "airport" car so I wasnt looking to make an emotional purchase. I wanted a dependable, well-made, safe sedan that offered a warranty at least as long as my 48-month lease. I got a lot more than I bargained for with the S40 Its very rewarding to drive-- solid, smooth, and responsive enough with the 5 speed manual to have plenty of freeway acceleration. This car feels like it could be driven over 100MPH all day long without breaking a sweat. Fantastic interior with a very smart center control console. So much more car for the money than the Camry, Mazda 6, and Honda Civic I shopped it against. Would recommend to anyone. Great car, period!

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  first ride - 2000 Volvo S40
  By ewalker1 - March 10 - 6:06 pm

  This was my first car-- so excited to have a safe and reliable car. Little did I know it would cost me THOUSANDS in credit card debt to maintain it. My headlights burn out in a couple of months, the CEL NEVER shuts off, the windshield wipers need to be replaced frequently (courtesy of New England weather). I spend all of my money on Volvo Techs diagnosing my problems, fixing them, and then finding a new one the next day. Its really been a nightmare- if anyone has any advice, I would love to hear it.

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  for volvo...not bad. - 2003 Volvo S40
  By BunBun - March 8 - 2:00 am

  for a 18 yr old guy.. im quite happy abt s40.. i never thot volvo will design diff. looks. Cuz usually they jus design it square and ...u no .. like a coffin.. but for S40..its amazing. Even though its a demo car when i bought it.. the car still runs smoothly and i only have to bring to dealer for check up once so far to change brake that had been worn off, tires rotation and tires alignment.

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  Who Messed Up Volvo - 2000 Volvo S40
  By TSandd - March 8 - 12:36 am

  Boxey was Best. I have never been so angry at an inanimate object in my life! Bought in 2003.Tune ups $500, varous issues with brakes $800 and finally the head gasket blew and killed the engine.Bought an engine with 50,000 miles on it. 6 months later hose to coolant broke and temperture gauge did not register.Alas, another blown headgasket.Found this company on the internet that completely fixed it with a liquid for $165 bucks, awesome saved me $1200.Well, then the battery died, bought a new one, slow to start the 2nd day, almost impossible to crank and roll over the 3rd day!!! On the 4th day would not start, mecahnic has no clue what is wrong and cannot start it. I AM DONE WITH VOLVOs....

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  Nice compact car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Warrior - February 23 - 2:40 am

  Well balanced car, Nice interiors, Silent cabin for this compact segment. A lot of security features for the money. 2.4i need more power. Suggest T5 for power busters.

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  Bad Headlights - 2000 Volvo S40
  By bad headlights - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Doesnt set my hair on fire. Headlights burn out at least once per year. If the Turbo isnt spooled up, the car is VERY sluggish.

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  No more Volvos for me - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Lucas Tam - February 17 - 6:50 pm

  This is my first and last Volvo ever. Since I bought the car in 2005, its been in the shop over 16 times for a variety of reasons: air bag malfunction, climate control issues, circuit boards frying, battery failures, remote not working, steering failure, etc. In fact, the car has been towed to the dealership 2 times since 2005! (And this was a brand new car). Never again am I going to buy an S40... and never again a Volvo!

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  S40 Review - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Simon Brown - February 15 - 4:13 am

  The new S40 is in a class all on its own. Take my advice and definitely go for the T5 AWD, as the 2.4i is very unpowered, (a problem the T5 will never have). The AWD option on a car of this type is outstanding, and is extremely useful. The new S40 is tons of fun to drive, especially if you like a firm and sporty type of suspension.