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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  Best Purchase Ever! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Debbie N. - February 12 - 2:00 am

  What a great little car! Having already purchased a used Volvo wagon, we knew we wanted our next car to be a Volvo, but affordability was an issue. I moved from a Saturn into the Volvo S40, and was surprised at how inexpensive the car was, and how much bang we got for our buck.

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  No Problems - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Mr. B - February 10 - 11:56 pm

  I Have owned this vehicle for about 6 years and have had few problems that I have not seen in my other vehicles. Firstly, I bought it with 18k so I had time to put some mileage on it. I currently have over 200k and have done 5 brake Jobs so the brakes have been fine for me. My headlights burnt out frequently until I fixed the ground. I have replaced my struts with konis and would highly recommend them. I have replaced my motor mounts, cv axle, and turbo seals once. So I dont know why everyone is complaining about these cars, if you maintain them they last awhile. Oil change at 3k not 7500.

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  Amazing Car - 2004 Volvo S40
  By jwarman - February 1 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this car for about a month and a half and I love it. The performace is outstanding and easily outclasses the competition in the price range. The styling is great, it looks nothing like the Volvos of old. Also the gas milage is great given this is a high performace car. Volvo has definitely built a winner of a car and attracted a new audience.

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  WOW! I LOVE THIS CAR! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Heather Ammon - February 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my S40 for less than a week and I love it! It handles like a dream and the interior is very luxurious! I love the leather and the wood inlay. The floating console is really cool too! Mine is mistral green metalic and I love that too. At first I doubted getting the color because my last few cars were green, but this color is beautiful and it looks great in the sun. The sports package is great. I drove both the 2.4i and the T5 and the acceleration was negligable to me, so I didnt feel it was worth the extra money to get the T5. This car is definately worth every penny. The competition better watch out for this car!

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  love my new car - 2004 Volvo S40
  By gopanthers - February 1 - 10:00 am

  I didnt get the turbo because I didnt need the extra speed. So far I love the new body style and I feel very safe in it. Its a safe car which looks classy yet doesnt look like an older persons car. The service at Warren Henry in Miami was amazing and they beat out the best price any where else. Its a car that I can invision placing my future kids in and yet not make me feel like I had to sacrifice a youthful car.

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  S40 & the Europan Delivery Program:BINGO - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Martin - January 28 - 6:00 pm

  After getting my car in Gothenburg, Sweden at the Volvo facilities, we discover Norway (the fjords & the mountain roads: Snow tempest in June !!!) and Southern Sweden. 3100 miles of Fun driving and beautiful scenic views. To test a new car, there is no such road in America. The T5 is fantastic, more power than I can expect, even the Base T5 you got plenty of equipment. It’s a perfect car for couple, very good with 2 children, but maybe a little tight with 4 adults. I love my Passion Red S40 T5 and people look at it, even in Sweden (where 1/3 cars are Volvo!). Volvo European Delivery Program: Fantastic Program, Fantastic Car, Fantastic Trip !!!

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  Fantastic Car for the money - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Brett Bedell - January 27 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the money. In my opinion a better car than the S60. More modern, just as much room, and a much better stereo than the S60.

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  best car ever i love it - 2005 Volvo S40
  By D shap - January 27 - 10:00 am

  an exciting fun car with the feel of the BMW 330xi at a lower price. Exact same features as the 330. Getting the same thing for less money. My family owns both cars and they are almost identical.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By kohlv - January 25 - 10:44 pm

  I love this car! I bought the car a year ago as my first car and its awesome. Ive read everywhere that its amazingly safe and I dont doubt it. The car looks great inside out and I have never had any major mechanical issues with it. This car works great in the snow (at least the AWD model). If you keep up with regular maintenance and actually care for the vehicle you shouldnt run into any problems.

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  crack - crack - crack - 2000 Volvo S40
  By jackson - January 22 - 7:23 pm

  on top of the frequent problems, such as ignition and, frequently, the sensor system, there were problems with the front end wearing out so quickly,and finally, like the passing of an overly-annoying dog, the car died at only 124k miles -- overheated and ruined the cylinder heads, with about 5 seconds of warning.