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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  A truly awful car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By whiffer - March 3 - 10:00 am

  I am in the second year of a four-year lease and am getting out of it as soon as I can. Ive owned a lot of cars in my time; the S40 is the most uncomfortable, least driver-friendly car Ive ever had. The interior is cramped, the drive is noisy and flat, and the fittings are cheap. If you have long legs (like I do), dont even think about the S40 -- youll spend half of your drive getting up and stretching. The rear seats have practically no legroom at all. Ive also had a lot of problems with reliability, specifically with the electrical system, and at times the CHECK ENGINE light comes on for no reason at all. My advice: look somewhere else if you want a sedan.

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  Good Car - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Rusty - February 21 - 2:03 pm

  After 90k miles and 5 years, our used off-lease 2001 volvo S40 is still a very reliable car. While under warranty, we had to replace the Climate Control system and a coil spring broke, but it always starts and gets us where we need to go. Bought it with 33k miles, now has 124k miles and it still runs great. Its like having a BMW but without the BMW pricetag and with Volvo reliability. I anticipate well drive ours until 200k miles easily.

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  I love the car, with one exception - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Jason - February 20 - 5:43 am

  I love this car, with one exception. The front seats are not overly comfortable. Unless one sits on the seat the correct way, hell hurt his hips or his back. Aside from the seating issue, the car is a winner. I drove to the office in an incredible downpour. The car performed perfectly. I felt like I was in command of the road. Id recommend this car to anyone, just make sure the seats are comfortable to you.

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 2003 Volvo S40
  By big rich - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Best car I have ever owned in 30 yrs. of driving. For this price ($26,000) range you cant do better. Quiet, super comfortable, and an unbelievable ride. I will never buy anything else.

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  Nothing more than problems. - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Carlos - February 13 - 2:20 am

  In the first 24 hour, the car had to be towed back to the dealer. Problems with the cars software. Two months afterwards, problesm with the key, could not start the car. Terrible service, no one is responsible for the car. Not the dealer, nor Volvo, nor Ford. If I could sell it right away, I would. The car is now parked in the dealer station. Complaining for about two moths with local authorities. No commitment at all.

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  volvo s40 - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Ray Tierney - January 29 - 10:00 am

  A beutiful small but comfortable car. Sticker price is high but we were able to purchase it for $5000 less making it a great car for tha money.

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  Volvo S40....No complaints! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By clintb305 - January 26 - 10:00 pm

  Since I left the dealership with my 2006 S40 Ive had a smile on my face. Its fun to drive. Its quick more than it is fast. Its a smooth quiet ride, very comfortable. Has an amazing sound system with easily accessible controls. Has a large trunk with seats that fold down in the back. But the best thing about it is the price.....its actually affordable.

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  Love this car!!! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By JBuck387 - January 26 - 1:20 am

  Wow, I love this car, I got mine in September. I have one with the navigation system which is an awesome feature. I love the premium audio system. This car always makes ppl turn their head. I test drove a BWM 325i, and also the Nissian 350Z, and I simply fell in love with the Volvo. We have owned several Volvos, however I have never liked one like I do the new S40

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  awesome - 2004 Volvo S40
  By hdmanager - January 24 - 10:00 am

  2nd time for S-40. Love the comfort and driveability. Great ride on the highway and fuel economy is there. Rims get dirty very quickly and detracts from appearance. Would buy another.

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  amazing car amazing value - 2004 Volvo S40
  By richkm - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, easy to use controls, comfort, luxury, performance, it has it all. Rockin stereo has changer in dash, all changers should be in dash. Trunk, under seat, and glove box mounted changers are antiquated. I have had cars that claimed to be sports cars that cost twice as much and did not perform as well as this car, nor were they put together as well. These new volvos are something to get excited about. Everyone should look at these before they buy anything else.