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:

• 

  I like it - 2002 Volvo S40
  By eddie05 - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Overall a great car. A rattle I needed to fix on the pass. side door. The dearlership took care of it asap.

• 

  Fair - 2001 Volvo S40
  By 06mcastle - February 13 - 4:16 am

  I chose a Volvo because its a luxury vehicle, but its just fair. I havent had any mechanical problems so it has been nice that way. The fuel pump is going out, so it will need to be replaced soon though. It is very costly to maintain or repair though. It requires a higher grade of gas, and synthetic oil, and a special oil filter size, most cars have one size, but not this one. It doesnt get as good of mileage as I was hoping, on the road it only gets about 28, in town it gets 25. There is a lot of road noise, but can be drowned out with the stereo. I wouldnt recommend this car to financial struggling people, but if you have extra dough, go for it.

• 

  Dont do it - 2001 Volvo S40
  By never again - February 8 - 8:43 am

  This car was the biggest mistake Ive made since my first marriage (and nearly as costly.) Constantly in need of repair and or maintenance. Everything from the sun roof to the brakes has needed attention. I would be remiss if I didnt mention the lights. Nearly $200 in bulbs in approximately 18 months! Cant finish without mentioning the cup holder - I seriously suspect is was designed by a team of monkeys. My recommendation to a prospective buyer is - dont.

• 

  Here it goes... - 2005 Volvo S40
  By johnlockhart - February 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is nice to drive. I had a BMW 325, 2002. This car handles better to me, just like it.

• 

  The Most Pleasing - 2008 Volvo S40
  By 37 - February 4 - 12:40 pm

  We have had low end to high end and we were never really satisfied. Then we found this unsuspecting Volvo 40. What a champ. Its quick, fun, just the right size for what we need. Rated safe, its simple yet stunning. By far the best stereo (dyna-audio), excellent turning radius, comfortable and supported seats. This premium compact offers more than you would think. Get the T5 AWD with the bells and whistles youll be glad you did.

• 

  S40, 2 years later - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Banker John - February 3 - 2:00 am

  I never saw myself as a Volvo kinda guy. My S40 was a loaner at the local dealer. Bought it with 4,000 miles on it - got a deal that was really hard to pass up. Ive owned A LOT of different cars and I must say this S40 may be the most competent car Ive ever owned. The longer I owned it the more things Ive noticed about the car that I like. Sure, Ive had the check engine light problem, and it does burn up headlights, and I have had to replace the brake pads, but all things considered, these are pretty minor problems(and in the case of the headlights - inexpensive). Ill hit 50,000 miles this month - the car has never let me down.

• 

  Nice car but it has some issues - 2005 Volvo S40
  By John - January 25 - 6:00 am

  I like this car quite a bit but it is not without issues. The mileage I get is terrible. Nothing close to what I expected. Around 16-17 mpg. I live in Germany and drive somewhat faster than I might in the U.S. but Im still no speed demon. The stereo gets caught in some sort of computer glitch when I start the car about 50% of the time. If I turn it off and remove the key it usually resets and works fine. Overall, I really like the car. It just needs the bugs worked out.

• 

  Volvo continues to move up - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Greg Hocevar - January 21 - 1:23 am

  If you are looking for a safe, fun little car to drive, then this is the one for you. Whether it be around town, on winding country roads, or on the freeway, this car performs as if it had the heart of a sports car (with a more comfortable ride of course). For the value, this will beat any BMW 3 series, any Mercedes C-Class, and any Infinity G class.

• 

  First and Last Volvo - 2004 Volvo S40
  By FtLauderdale - January 20 - 2:03 pm

  Im not a big fan of this car and anxiously await the end of the lease. Its just not reliable enough, something is always going wrong and the service people act like theyre doing you a big favor to fix it, even warrantly items that just should not be a problem so soon. With that scenario, rattles, wind noise, and poor gas mileage (22 mpg), Ill be looking elsewere for my next ride.

• 

  The World of Volvo - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Excellent Car - January 9 - 12:40 pm

  Wow! This car is awesome. Stylish, solid, safe & sound - welcome to the world of Volvo What more can ask of an entry-level luxury sport sedan. I feel really smart driving this car and even smarter when I spend less than $25K for it (w/automatic and gnarly standard features, and season ski pass & lift for 2 to Vail & Heavenly). It priced much less than the Audi A4 or BMW 325 and WOW its a better car in everyway.