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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  Good Solid Car - 2009 Volvo S40
  By Chuck - July 13 - 2:43 am

  This is our third Volvo. The other two were station wagons (over 15 years ago). Purchased this for my 17 year old daughter as her first car. I am impressed because it is sporty enough for her and it is still a solid little Volvo. I just wish I could drive it sometime.

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  Noisy and Bumpy ride - 2003 Volvo S40
  By jimwen - July 12 - 2:00 am

  This car has some (not a lot of zip)but the engine vibrates throughtout the car and you can feel through the gas pedal. Small wheels and size of vehicle give very bumpy ride. You feel everything. Brake pads only last 15k miles and the dealer acknologes that this was a design flaw but they do not give a price break to replace.

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  most reliable - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Tiler - July 6 - 11:06 am

  I have over 270k on my Volvo and it runs like new. Basically maintenance free all I had to do was an oil change. This car has a broken steering wheel it just kind of falls in your lap but thats fine considering how hard I drive it. This car has had no problems with anything. My only concern is when will Volvo start to profit off there car commercials. Make Volvo top of reliability. my last car was a 940 and it just ran forever. I think it died after 516K yeah 516K how many Toyota are like that? buy this car and youll love every thing about it. like the safety, reliability, and ride. Volvo has a lot to be remembered for.

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  Excellent car for the money! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Ken Y. - July 6 - 5:03 am

  I purchased my 2004 S40 on 9/2003 with a $4000 rebate and free maintenance for 3 yrs. The 170hp turbo has plenty of power and the 5-speed automatic is great. This is one of the best cars I have ever owned. I currently have 33k miles on it. This car has features like auto climate control and heated seats that are usually only found on larger vehicles. They put synthetic oil in from the factory so you only have to go back for an oil change every 7,500 miles. This car is also very fun to drive and it handles the road like a champ.

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  Im in Love! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By CoaChKsCar - June 26 - 2:20 am

  I have always wanted a Volvo of my own and I have no regrets now that I have one!! I have never felt as safe in a car after owning a Saab 9000, a VW Jetta and a Scion tc. It is solid and flawless and handles so well in questionable weather. I would recommend it to anyone. I will never buy anything other than Volvo again. Its engine is powerful and the control is amazing. The interior design is slick and incredibly functional and the sound system is great. Im a soccer coach so being able to fit all of my crap in the trunk is a must and this car definitely fills that need!! If you are considering this car I have nothing but strong recommendations for it!!

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  NEVER AGAIN - 2000 Volvo S40
  By SLOWVOLVO - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Ive had every problem thats been discussed. Brakes wear out at 15K, front head lights burn out after 5K, the piece of junk has always vibrate at 70 miles per hour. I suggest before you buy one of these, you take it out on the Interstate and get it up to speed. Dyer & Dyer Chamblee really should feel guilty for allowing these pieces of junk to sit in their showroom and for providing years of terrible service. All in all, the car is sooo bad, it sits parked in my garage. Terrible just terrible. I will not only never purchase a Volvo again, Ill never purchase a FORD again, since Ford in responsible for this junk.

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  Great buy great ride - 2006 Volvo S40
  By jeremybennett8 - June 22 - 1:13 pm

  I bought my S40 used still under warranty after looking at buying a new one. The 6 speed is awesome and a great fuel saver. Power and handling are ample and safety features are unparalelled. Driven right you can have fun and get over 23 MPG. Be warned: spacial reasoning is a must. The trunk is hard to while backing up as are the rounded front corners. Factory premium sound will blow your ears off if you want it to. Nav system is good with steering wheel mounted controls, though this can be distracting at times. I recommend 17" wheels at the minimum to improve grip if you plan on driving aggressively.

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  Nice Styling and Good Value - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Scott - June 21 - 3:23 pm

  I purchased the 2.4i with the sport package in south Florida and found it loads of fun to drive. Handles very well in the curves and the 2.4 litre engine is peppy enough for everyday traffic. I since moved to upstate NY and it does great on the country roads, but snows are a MUST as the traction control constantly slips in winter. I now have 90k miles on it and have had a couple of major problems, at 55k miles the radiator blew. Thank goodness for the extended warranty, or could have been $1500! Interior design is stylish, but cheep materials. Trim clips continually break (in trunk too) and stupid expensive to replace.

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  Volvo s40 - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Lynn - June 18 - 9:30 am

  This is a fun car to drive. The gas mileage is decent. While a 4 dr sedan, there really is no leg room to speak of for adult passengers sitting in the back seat. I have cloth seats, and have had them cleaned twice in 2 years; even a water stain leaves a mark. Next time its leather for me. Overall, a nice car for 1 or 2 adults.

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  Great looking, reliable, average car - 2008 Volvo S40
  By Ted - June 17 - 3:46 am

  Have been driving this car for over 2 years now. Love the overall look and build quality. Very different from other cars on the road. A few issues, fuel economy, loud interior, and surprisingly more than one blind spot due to the large columns (its a safety thing...I get it) The drive is also not as European as I would have expected from a car competing with the likes of BMW, Audi and dare I say it, VW. It lacks that little oomph to get it at the same level as its German competitors. It doesnt get me excited, it gets me from A to B in style and safely.