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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  lovin it - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Shanny - January 7 - 9:36 pm

  Very pleased with my choice - would highly recommend this car to anyone. GREAT car for new drivers/teenagers.

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  110K Miles and Going - 2000 Volvo S40
  By DallasSteve - January 5 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! I have personally put over 100K miles on this car in heavy traffic and on road trips and I have never regretted the purchase once. My service has been excellent, my reliability good and the car is without question a well performing small car. I have to say I understand the weiners, they just did not understand the car they purchased. There was a defect with the headlights which was completely fixed under warranty. The brake pads do wear quickly. Volvos have great brakes, they stop on a dime. Great brakes wear quickly, thats the trade-off. I would never trade my safety and breaking for saving a $100 in brake pads.

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  TOO MANY PROBLEMS - 2003 Volvo S40
  By s40sucks - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I leased this new S40 in March 2001. Within the first year I had to replace a rear rotor due to a factory defect. During the second year with 10,000 miles on the car I needed new rear rotors and brake pads costing close to $500. I am currently fighting with Volvo to reimburse me. During the second year the shift light blew out, the front headlight had to be replaced, the power seat broke and needed a new switch, the steering colum needed repairs. The check engine light goes on and off continously, and the air conditioning is terrible. I would never consider another VOLVO and advise all to stay away!

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  Could be made better - 2001 Volvo S40
  By jackbuc - December 17 - 10:00 am

  The car handles well, however, there are problems. One, the doors are way to light. The paint could be of a better quality. The tires are below average. The engine is excellent but the steering and brakes are not up to par. I will need brake pads after 15,000 miles. The radio is OK but the cup holder is totally in the wrong place. Excellent pick up and fun to drive. If you are thinking of getting a volvo dont be cheap and get the s80.

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  Noise Problem - 2006 Volvo S40
  By jn - December 9 - 7:13 am

  The car has 7,000 miles on it and has developed a noise in the drive train. Volvo has replaced the tranny, the clutch, the shocks, the motor mounts and the axles. They now say that the sound is normal!

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  4.5 years later 2.4 liter with Automatic - 2007 Volvo S40
  By volvo2007dgo - December 8 - 10:39 am

  My S40 will be five years old in June. I have 32500 miles on it. It is only used for personal use. This was an excellent purchase. I would buy this car all over again. I use 93 octane gas and the performance is much better. I think i get better gas mileage using 93 than 87. The seats are so comfortable. Everyone that gets in my car loves the comfy seats and the waterfall dashboard effect where you can store something. There is plenty of power in the 2.4 engine without the turbo as long as you use 93 octane. The engine also loves the fully synthetic oil. The car has been reliable and i found a great volvo specialist to service it. I love the brakes and transmission.

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  Best car for the price - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Ken Y. - December 6 - 10:00 am

  My 2002 Monte Carlo SS was totalled when someone hit me from the rear. I went to many different dealerships Honda, Acura, Subaru, VW, etc. I just thought I would stop into the Volvo dealership to see what they had. They made me a deal I couldnt refuse on a 2004 S40. It has everything except fog lights and a spoiler. The only complaint I have is that the steering wheel vibrates a little when traveling above 70Mph.

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  Best 4cyl Car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Daniel - December 4 - 10:00 am

  This car is a very reliable car that meets all my requirements for a car. Small yet comfortable. I value the understated luxury, it lacks the pretension a BMW 318 or Audi A4 1.8t might have associated with it.

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  Lovin it - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Rick - December 2 - 4:33 pm

  I am blown away with the comfort of my car. It has virtually no road noise and the sound system rocks. I love my Volvo.

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  Good Car - 2005 Volvo S40
  By jay - November 26 - 1:20 am

  Car runs great in Snow. The winter mode and traction control kept the car rather stable while driving in the first blizzard of 2006. The car has plenty get up and go for a small sedan.