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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  Not worth the $$$ - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Brendan Kelly - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for almost two years and have had it in the shop on at least 5 occasions due to manufacture defects. True, Ive had no serious problems, but after driving a Honda and Nissan into the ground with nary a problem, this is new territory for me. I had to replace the brakes after only 12,000 miles and Volvo tried to convince me that this is normal! The 15K tune-up cost me almost $500. Since Ill exceed 45,000 during my 39 month lease, Ill have to pay almost $1,500 to have the tires rotated and the filters replaced.

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  New to Volvo, I made a GREAT choice! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By aglio412 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Went to a VW dealership expecting to walk out with a turbo Beetle for my fiancee. Instead we got a GREAT deal on a 2004 S40 LSE. The ride is great and the car is shockingly responsive for only being a 4cyl turbo with automatic transmission. The interior is GREAT. the leather seating is luxurious and the dash/controls are ergonomically placed. Im already so comfortable in it that I feel like Ive owned the car for 3 years, not 3 days.

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  Nice But Expensive - 2008 Volvo S40
  By Pat - November 4 - 12:56 pm

  This car has been really good up till lately. I purchased this vehicle brand new with only 2 miles on it; now I am at 45,380 miles. Within the last month... Navigation quit working - dealer had to order a whole new head unit for it... Strange & Annoying rattle in the passenger side door - ended up being loose rivets that hold the window in the door. They also did some software update as well. This was all covered under warranty. This car never seems to hold an alignment. Just home today from having the 3rd alignment since I got this car new. This is the first vehicle I have ever had to do a alignment on. Hopefully the third time is a charm.

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  A joy to drive and look at - 2006 Volvo S40
  By tkbindpls - November 3 - 3:36 am

  This is my first Volvo and its much more solid than my Saab. This car is a dream on the highway; I can drive long trips and not be uncomforable or exhausted at the end of the trip. Its also very nimble at highway speeds. The turbo 5 cylinder is slow to start (no surprise) but I have to watch my speed after that. I prefer manual transmission and I really dont like the clutch; the spring needs to be redesigned because it causes me to let it up too fast sometimes. Im so pleased that I joined the Volvo Club Of America.

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  AWESOME - 2004 Volvo S40
  By sensabmc - October 31 - 10:00 am

  They say that you will know good art when you see it. When I saw this car for the first time, I knew I was looing at something special. The design of this car makes a statement and is unlike anything else on the road. Definately fun to drive and turns heads no matter where you go.

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  A keeper - 2007 Volvo S40
  By ndotym - October 30 - 10:34 pm

  I purchased this car from internet sales new, people say the 2.4I is a low in non perfoming car they dont drive this vehicle on the highway, the turbo would of been nice but I plan to keep this one, its a blast with power to spare in manual mode. I get looks all the time, just turn 65,000 and my servicing dealer tells me its a keeper, and I will drive it to the wheels fall off. I have the select package black and dark gray interior tetech, no problems just normal servicing, two sets of tires. Volvo did its job with this one. I believe the 2.4 motor should stay in the Volvo line up. great motor.

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  fast fast fast!!! fun fun fun - 2001 Volvo S40
  By volvo for life - October 27 - 6:46 pm

  I must say, from someone downgrading from a 2000 BMW 3 series this is an awesome car. Its very reliable, fast and handles like a race car. You can keep up with any car on the road with ease. The steering is very quick and responsive for a Volvo. I read and saw that many people did not like the cup holders, but i do, because i think its different. Although i am grateful to have this car, i must say i wish the suspension was a little firmer and not as soft, but hey it still handles great!

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  My New Volvo - 2010 Volvo S40
  By Lynette - October 23 - 6:10 pm

  This car is great! It handles the lumps and bumps of New Jerseys winter worn roads with ease. I love the great pick-up and the nimble way it handles! The clutch shifts smoothly and is extremely easy to. The instrument panel is simple to use as it is very logically designed. I am really enjoying this car and am so glad I made the choice to purchase it.

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  Love my S40 - 2001 Volvo S40
  By bbqbandit - October 20 - 8:36 pm

  I bought the car two years ago and it has been a dream. Incredible power and fuel economy. Body is in amazing condition with no rust and its so much fun to drive.

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  Some important issues to be aware of - 2005 Volvo S40
  By harry - October 10 - 2:11 am

  There is a known design defect where, if the sunroof drains that run down the doors of the car clog, water drains into the interior of the car from the lower part of the doors. Absolutely ridiculous. You need to regularly clear the drains with compressed air. My interior is ruined as a result of water damage. Also, 2005 models dont come with an auxiliary jack or bluetooth, and you cant put an aftermarket CD player in. Youre looking at around $1000 to replace the CD player at the dealership if something goes wrong. It also seems the only problems Ive had with the car required me to go to the dealership for repairs.