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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VOLVO S40 happy owner - 2000 Volvo S40
By mathias - March 21 - 10:00 amThis car has an excellent response when speed and acceleration is needed. I have put this car at 137 MPH on Alligator Alley and it could have still kept going a tad more had I not cought up with traffic. Getting to 130 MPH is a breeze. Need a stretch to get to the 137 I put it to. Acceleration is very good. I have left more than 1 BMW 325 asking for a second chance. Response from mid speeds is also superb. The interior is suprisingly comfortable. It looks smaller outside but feels large inside, even in the backseets.It is more roomy than the A4 by far. The trunk is very generous as well. The car has had no problems, just regular service and it has 56,000 miles. Best car in its league.
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Best used value S-40ASR turbo - 2001 Volvo S40
By Volvo for Life - March 21 - 10:00 amI do agree with some people here.If you buy a fully loaded model topping $27800 with all the options you dont want to have any problems and glitches like burning lights or brakes.It is still a best deal in the used sport luxury european sedan category.You have to drive normal and dont abuse it.I love this car,but you have to lubricate brakes ,especially if you drive in salty,cold weather.Handling is superb.Once again you have to buy them used for $9700-11500 range to really enjoy it.It worth this money all the way.Luxury European small sports sedan.
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Must Have - 2005 Volvo S40
By Buons - March 21 - 10:00 amOutside of its safety features that everyone knows about, this Volvo is an exciting, powerful, and beautiful vehicle that you have to see in person to truly appreciate. You can pay alot more money for cars like the Audi A4, or the BMW 325i and not get anywhere near what this car offers. Trust me when i say that this is the time to get into this car. if you wait to long the demand for them will rise and so will the cost. Get it while the getting is good.
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drives like a dream - 2005 Volvo S40
By crownbath - March 21 - 10:00 amMy wife and I are very happy with the S40. You will see the difference in comfort and handling. A Volvo S40 is much better than some of the Mercedes or Volkswagons.
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Most Disappointed - 2000 Volvo S40
By Disappointed in MI - March 17 - 2:00 amThis car has been nothing but trouble since day one. Both brakes had to be replaced after one year. Struts were replaced, windows dont work, squeaky roof/sunroof. Im in for repairs once per month. Volvo refused to admit there is a problem and will NOT assist me in getting me out of this lease. I have been loyal Ford consumer until I got this Volvo, but I had never had my Ford products in the shop other than for oil changes. Volvo expects the consumer to pay $350 to have a maintenance check after every 10,000 miles. NEVER AGAIN
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Drives likes a truck - 2001 Volvo S40
By juanag - March 17 - 2:00 amHandling: choppy, bumpy ride. Have to hang onto the wheel in curves to keep it tracking. Reliability: one check engine incident. Rear brakes needed relining after 8,000 miles. Stopping distance is not that great, either. Dealer took 2 years to fix malfunctioning drivers window!
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Near the top of this Valets list. - 2003 Volvo S40
By jeffj-nj - March 7 - 10:00 am700 characters is just NOT enough room to sing this cars praises. I work as a valet, so Ive driven, oh, about everything. That said, there is nothing on the road today offering this cost/quality ratio. Everything about the car is just so... right. I had originally prepared a several paragraph essay about this, but I cant post it or even figure out what to cut from it. So, Ill sum it up with this: Ive put 25k miles on this car, and enjoyed every one of them. Considering several hundred of them were accumulated in one sitting, and/or during the worst winter NJ has seen in some time, thats really saying quite a bit. If youre looking elsewhere, stop.
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Love it - 2002 Volvo S40
By mormit - March 4 - 2:06 amWe were looking for a new vehicle for my wife and had good luck with her older car, a 1985 245 Volvo wagon. She wqanted something small, reliable and easy to drive. We looked at the S40, VW Golf, and Honda Accord. Picked the S40 both on its own merits and our past experience with this brand. We both really love this car. It has a high quality, comfortable, safe-feeling ride with sporty handling.
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Watch out after warranty. - 2005 Volvo S40
By Mixed Feelings - March 1 - 8:33 pmI bought a demo with 6000 miles. Just after the warranty ran out I had to replace the oil filter assembly. Then I had to replace the sensor that controls the valve timing. Total cost: over $1000. Software is buggy after many "upgrades" under warranty. Clock resets itself. Stereo will refuse to play, but will come back on its own the next day. Bad idea to mix the entertaiment system with the car computer. No way to add aftermarket gear - such as an iPod (use FM they say - doesnt really work well at all). Advice? Buy a Honda.
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Disappointed! - 2001 Volvo S40
By Malinda - February 26 - 6:00 amMy dad gave me this car after my mom drove it for a while. Its really great looking but I constantly had problems with it. The warranty never covered anything except my alternator, and it sat at the dealer for 1 month before it could be fixed. The check engine/service lights on constantly. Brakes and tires wore out way too early. I tried to trade in and was only offered $2500 for it (the AC finally went out and it was way too much to fix it). Literally in the shop once a month. The guys at the dealership know me on a first-name basis b/c Im there so much! Too bad, but its so cute on the outside! And the cupholder? Seriously? You have to take out your drink to change CDs!
