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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  I love this car !!! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Ozgur - September 13 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I`ve ever had. It sporty, elegant, and reliable. I used to had couple of Japanese cars before, they were also good but I can not compare with this car. She got 1.9 litre small engine, but enough power. Built quality is much more better than most Japanese cars. Its reliable, safe and the most important, IT IS A VOLVO !!!

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  Volvo for Life - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Bonnie - September 11 - 8:46 pm

  Ive had several cars in my life. When it came time to look for something new, we went to the typical dealers. Just by chance, we stopped in at a Volvo dealer never thinking we could afford one. Well, we were wrong .. but most importantly, I wound up in my Volvo S40. This car kicks. I call it my zippy car. Its so comfortable and fun to drive, Im now Volvo for Life. My husband had just bought a Pontiac Bonneville a month earlier and wishes he could get into the Volvo S80, but he would be up-side down, so well have to wait until his car is paid off in 2010 ... bummer. In the mean time, Im enjoying my Volvo and recommend it to anyone. My Dad always said they are the safest car out.

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  Nice little car - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Manimal - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I really like the S40. My mom got it last summer but then gave me the car and traded my jeep for a BMW. Its got a great engine that will pull into the triple digits with relative ease. It rides really smoothly at any speed. My only complaints- the stereo can get muddy when at absolute max volume, the cupholder sucks, and the leather wears down and stains too easily.

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  2002 Volvo S40 - 2002 Volvo S40
  By SammieGrl - September 5 - 10:00 am

  I picked up my S40 last week and so far, so good. The only complaints I have are only so/so gas mileage (compared to my previous car, anyway), the box on the center console is about 1/4 inch too small to put CD cases into and the radio reception is not great (my car came with the upgraded stereo with CD).

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  So Far So Good - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Klappez15 - September 4 - 2:33 pm

  I have had my s40 for a month now, but I have to agree with a reveiw above, everytime I drive it I have a huge smile on my face. It looks good, drives nice, and for the price has just about every feature I could want. I love the sound system, the comfort level, and the way the car looks. My first Volvo but probably not my last.

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  Awesom - 2003 Volvo S40
  By tdta817 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the Audi A4, VW Passat, but finally settle on the S40. Its nicely built, good controls, acceleration, and excellent safety features for small car.

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  VOLVO JUNK - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Volvo S40 - August 17 - 9:43 pm

  I bought the car 4 years ago and after 1 year all the problems started, I nearly replaced half of the car about 35 parts estimated cost about $4,500 in parts (bough for $9,500) a lot changed myself to save some money. Every time I changed something I kept telling myself oh after changing this it would run good without problems. So now the first chance I will get I am getting rid of it. I have another car, toyota and no problems. I will be getting toyota as soon as volvo is gone. I feel bad for the next person who is going to get it. Car still have problems and no mechanic can figure it out, why cant it start right away, you have to crank on it for a while. JUNK JUNK JUNK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Greatest luxury vehicle - 2007 Volvo S40
  By sbgrly805 - August 15 - 1:40 pm

  My father purchased this vehicle for me and not only is it a luxury vehicle, it has great gas mileage and it is extremely fun to drive. The trunk is a great size and holds more than the average sedan. I am thoroughly impressed with my new vehicle and I recommend this car to everyone who can afford it.

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  Mediocre Car - 2000 Volvo S40
  By VOLVOS40DRVR - August 6 - 10:00 am

  The S-40 is an average attempt by Volvo to create a fun little sedan that will appeal to a younger demographic. Ive had no major issues with mine, but little things have plagued me... especially that darn "check engine" light that seems to need resetting every month. The paint is of very poor quality and looks much older than three years even though Ive had the car repainted. The leather seats have already started to crack and the car has less than 40k miles. Overall, I would not recommend this particular car.

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  Best Car on the Road!!! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Poppy - July 14 - 9:30 pm

  This car is an absolute joy to own! Fuel economy is 26 miles per gallon around town and over 30 on the highway! Its gutsy when it needs to be yet comfortable at any speed. This is a whole lot of car for the price! Best purchase Ive ever made!