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:

• 

  LOVE this car! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By volvodrvr2 - July 25 - 1:52 am

  I bought this car used a year and a half ago and after much debate while searching for a car, I am still 100% in love with my S40. The "high" maintenance bills (it did need the timing belt replaced for being over 100k - $700) and "Volvo" stigma were intimidating at first, but now that Ive had the car I know it was still a solid choice. Its got all the features I wanted, gets good gas mileage and is a great looking car. 30k on it in my year and a half of ownership (now 135k) and it still runs like a champ!

• 

  Good Sturdy Car - 2009 Volvo S40
  By MITCHELL - July 24 - 9:00 am

  This the first Volvo I bought, Ive wanted one since I was 19 yrs old,mainly because of the safety features and durability. I get about 27/29 MPG which was about the same as my Honda Accord, which was only a 4 cyl engine. The seats are very comfortable,and the standard equip is great. I wanted a sports car, but after driving the S40 it proved to have the tight suspension that I wanted,but the comfort I needed and it had back seat in case we needed it. My husband was a Ford man and after he drove my car home, he wanted one, so 5 days later we went back and bought another one. We are very pleased so far.

• 

  CPO - Very Reliable - 2007 Volvo S40
  By JG - July 18 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car with approx. 20000 mi CPO from my local dealer. I have changed the oil every 5000 mi, not factory recommended 7500. I now have 82000+ miles on the car. Ive only had to take it in twice for repairs. Once for something very minor and the second time for the A/C going out intermittently on very hot days in South GA. Thank goodness it was CPO! They replaced the compressor (with new clutch assembly) and it is good as new. (Would have cost a mint had it not been covered under the extended warranty - $1200+) Overall, good entry vehicle into the premium compact sedan market. The 2.4i could use 20-30 more HP, but the MPG is great. Average 27 mixed. 31+ Highway.

• 

  The best at the price - 2010 Volvo S40
  By Earl - July 14 - 5:53 am

  Got the car early this year; first thing i noticed was the torque, i love the strength of the car,its powerful, good gearbox, bit of a hard drive,that just makes it more sporty. I am happy i bought it, it handles corners well for a fwd car. the motor makes that sound...nuts man,love it to bits

• 

  Volvo S40 LSE AS R - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Mr.Garza - July 8 - 2:00 am

  Overall a great car. Going to Grossinger Volvo in Lincolnwood, Illinois was a hassle, they have a terrible service center, and when we terminated a lease of a 2000 Toyota Camry XLE they lost the keys, manual to the car and never returned it on time(recieved bills from toyota). Great car for the money. It would have been better if they had told us about the new redesigned 2004.5 Volvo S40. The service is terrible they dont know the parts of the car, they dont know how to fix problems with the car(squeking noise when braking), and they dont know which car you own, last time they brought us the wrong car!!!Dont go to Grossinger!!!

• 

  Great Car For this Segment... - 2007 Volvo S40
  By zumajay - June 25 - 7:13 am

  Ive owned a mid 90s Maxima SE, Miata M, and WRX... and to most dealers dismay, Im an avid test driver of new cars just for fun. The Volvo is really impressive: great exterior lines, beautiful clean and contemporary interior, and just awesome for its price. The initial build quality is nice and the materials used are great. Engine is by no means a monster but very well refined and gives a nice balance between performance, economy, and strong MPG.

• 

  Safe, Fun, Performance - Wifes car :( - 2005 Volvo S40
  By SaturnManMike - June 22 - 9:50 am

  Picked up a loaded T5... Was going to order a 2.4i but opted to drive the turbo... Worlds apart in acceleration. The car just wants to fly coming out of second gear. Sixth gear is great travling down the interstate. Handling is good on back roads. Little rough on the interstate, but that is to be expected. All the controls are laid out nicely - Center stack is really neat, did not even notice the storage behind it. Options on car - Premium, Sport, Audio, Climate, Convenience, DSTC, and BI- Xeon...

• 

  New S40 2.4i - 2005 Volvo S40
  By richard - June 3 - 7:26 am

  The vehicle handles at top speed and curves. However, the initial pick-up is a bit slow. The interiors are gorgeous, as well as the exterior. Good workmanship, both in and out.

• 

  Dissapointed - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Dos santos - June 2 - 6:53 pm

  With gas prices as they are, this purchase was as much about fuel economy as was safety and styling. The EPA ratings say 22 city/ 30 highway. City driving we get 16 and highway 21. This is so far off the mark, I feel ripped off. The dealership just says there are variations. Other than using the AC, I drive as fuel efficiently as possible. I have no problems with our other cars. I bought this to help save money opn gas but I guess Ill have to drive my 7 passenger Toyota SUV , 8 cylinder,that gets gas mileage just shy of these numbers. Why is it some auto makers test their vehicles more accurately than others???

• 

  A Good little Sedan - 2002 Volvo S40
  By RMLV - May 26 - 2:00 am

  A nice peppy little sedan. The car is fun to drive and has all the features of larger cars.