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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  Fun, Fun, Fun! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By RYan - June 22 - 4:53 pm

  We are finishing up our 3-year lease on this car and have loved driving it. We have all options including upgraded stereo, leather, htd seats, etc. and it is a blast to drive. We have owned a few Volvos in the past (240, 850) and this one is by far the coolest (beats the stodgy S60 and S80 designs by a mile). It is peppy, even our 2.4i, gets good mileage, 32/22, and handles great, even in the snow. We are in MN and had two major storms this year. I popped the car in manual mode and plowed right out of 1-foot snow drifts, while our Camry bottomed out and got stuck several times. Great car.

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  Very pleased so far - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Jim - June 8 - 10:46 am

  I did a lot of comparing of models (VW Jetta, Mazda 6, Accord, Camry) and picked the S40. I have come close to purchasing Volvo in the past, and finally took the plunge. I have been very pleased with the build quality. I am 63" and have been able to find a good seating position - I got the Select Package with power drivers seat. Nice headroom even with sunroof. The power is adequate in the 2.4. I have been pleased with the mileage although I am still in the break-in (city only so far - about 18-19 mpg) with optional auto transmission. Optional 12 speaker stereo is fantastic. Incredibly well thought out ergonomics. EXCELLENT A/C in Texas summer.

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  Good Fun Car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By nate91 - June 6 - 5:57 pm

  I really wanted a used BMW or Mercedes primarily because they were great handling rear-wheel drive cars. Hence I was hesitant to get another front-drive Volvo, but this car was in the price range. However, this car has exceeded my expectations. The turbo makes for great power and great fun. Hit the gas hard and it peels out through first gear. You can easily get to any open spot in traffic even on the highway. Firm suspension makes for good handling but a bit of a bumpy ride. Like others said, it stops on a dime. The cons. Cheap interior, I hate the cloth seats and door panels are loose. The car idles a bit rough, the steering wheel always shakes at lights.

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  Great commuter - 2007 Volvo S40
  By ndotym - May 19 - 3:30 am

  I have 14000, love this car great gas mileage, comfortable, great radio, just a couple of problems, all interior, sun roof shade broken track, mirror loose all being fix under warranty. Otherwise no problems.

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  New Mom disappointed to give up Volvo - 2000 Volvo S40
  By New Mom disappointed - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Up until the day I had to put the infant carrier into the backseat, I loved my S40. Its stylish, peppy, and comfortable. Unfortunately, the car is too small to handle a carseat. The front seats have to practically be moved all the way up to accomodate it. My husband feels like hes driving a "go-cart" with the way he squashed in. We did have continuing trouble with the check engine light but a recall has seemed to correct that issue. The radios reception is poor also. I have had it replaced once and this has not cleared up the issue.

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  My baby - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Redster - May 15 - 12:56 am

  I love my s40. I drove the audi a4 and the bmw 3 seriess and the s40 is a million times better to drive and a lot nicer in inside design

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  Love it! But? - 2005 Volvo S40
  By thetruth - May 12 - 5:56 pm

  Love my car it is a sexy fun car. I have the 6 sp manual and it is a straight rocket! One thing never, never, never, go to the dealer for service or problems. Volvo dealers are scam artists! I have a local mechanic who does all my maintenance and does better work for a 5th of the cost. He saved me when there was a recall on the pvc air box. My air box blew before the recall and when that blows your timing belt gets oil on it, when that happens the timing belt goes bad fast. Well he recommended I change it and probably saved me 4000. Ive heard people who went the the dealer and didnt get the good advice and had to pay 4000 once it broke. When it could have been prevented.

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  Fun - 2004 Volvo S40
  By JohnKeith - April 30 - 1:03 pm

  I have had this car now for 2 years and it has a little over 33,000 miles. So, I feel comfortable to finally give my review. It has been a great car and VERY reliable. I traded my 2003 Accord in for it...and never looked back. The only thing I wish, I would have gotten the T5

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  Made From Volvonium - 2006 Volvo S40
  By bbradley - April 26 - 10:10 pm

  I bought the S40 T5 "slightly used" at the beginning of the year; it never let me down once. The car looks cool without being flashy and the interior is smartly designed. It just plain runs and is sturdy as an ox. It even has above-average pickup for such a tiny 4-door packed with so many options. Unfortunately, 10 months later due to some questionable road conditions I got intimate with a concrete wall. The Volvo wasnt exactly indestructible-- the entire drivers side was smashed in. I was a bit smashed in myself, but thankfully nothing permanent. Im convinced that the Volvo saved my life. Im driving a clunker today, but you can bet that Ill be a Volvo customer for life.

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  S40 2.4i - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Jason - April 10 - 11:36 am

  Awesome little car, fun for 2 people, 4 is definitely a crowd though, unless your friends are small. the performance of the 2.4i just isnt there, but the T5 which I test drove is a blast, the 2.4i is great fun, but if youre a serious driver, get the T5 S40 or an S60R