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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  So far, GREAT! - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Timscotland - November 23 - 2:00 am

  My wife drives a V70 D5 a car I have been very impressed by. I am now middle aged and therefore have been required to go for a sensible car. My Honda Accord TypeR had to go and I have to be a grown up :-( Enter an S40 T5 so much torque, quiet (great news after the Honda) 30mpg at 90mph I love this car. Even running in, resticted to 3000rpm, you are traveling at 90+ but as the milage goes on (now at 1100 in 10 days) the engine gets better and better. The 6 speed gearbox is smooth and precise, better even than the Honda with its award winning box, even if 6 speeds are unnessisary with the car.

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  Great Value - 2007 Volvo S40
  By m4336 - November 20 - 3:02 pm

  We purchased the car used with 20,000 miles on it. We have only done the prescribed services to the unit. It has not required a single repair in the last 4 years and 40,000. We put custom wheels on the unit a couple of years ago, and get regular compliments from strangers on how sharp the car looks.

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  Confused - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Jefferson6599 - November 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought my S40 with 13,450 miles, 2 years ago and must have gotten the only one made well. I blew one headlight before the recall for the wiring harness. The brake pads were changed, but thats normal wear and tear. Other than that just my routine 7,500 hundred mile service. The car isnt as bad as the reviews suggest. Most of the complaints were rectified on the 2001 model. I think Volvo owners just like to complain. The same types of complaints can be found on the brick board web site. I have enjoyed driving my S40.

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  Great little car - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Mike - November 3 - 7:10 am

  Wife had a 2001 S80 and really loved it. When time came to get a new one she wanted an SUV but with the gas prices, talked her out of it. She saw this white Volvo S40 and fell in love with it. Turns out it was a turbo with AWD. Car hugs the road like a tiger. Great pick up, lots of power. The new S40s are like the old S80s.

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  LOVE IT - 2001 Volvo S40
  By g75401 - October 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my S40 to be a work car. I drive 90 miles round trip, mostly highway, and wanted a car with better fuel economy than my Expedition. So far, the Volvo fits the bill. Its very fun to drive and gets great gas mileage. I compare it to a Scirroco VW I had in the early 80s...very peppy without the requirement of needing to sleep in the back seat overnight on the side of the road due to breakdowns!!! Plus, my stepson has already informed me he likes it more than his dads S60!!

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  Suprise S40 - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Bob H - October 30 - 9:50 am

  I am very pleased with the price - value ratio of the Volvo S40. The performance of the T5 is nothing short of incredible. The mileage is also a pleasant surprise. I am averaging 27.5 combined city/highway mileage on mid- level gas. This is particularily nice since I last owned a Expedition. The new style with a set of crome wheels really sets off the fire-engine red body. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  LoyalVolvoOwnerFL - 2007 Volvo S40
  By LoyalVolvoOwner - October 22 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Volvo. Same color and same engine. So far everything is great. The transmission adapts to the driver (like a fitted baseball glove) I was concerned about what to do after the warranty expires. I cant think of another car that i could get in and feel as excited as i do for the price that i paid, no matter where my destination may be...work, gym, roadtrip, or out to dinner. I dont think this car will ever look outdated. Auto body shop personnel have said great things. Extended VIP warranty is available but only before the orginal warranty expires.

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  ehh, its ok... - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Lex - October 12 - 2:56 am

  this car does not perform. its got a bit of turbo but it doesnt effectively come on until higher rpms of third gear. the car handles like a beast. high center of gravity, extreme understeer. this car may initially spark the interest of a twenty-something looking to mod this swedish turbo, but they will find little in the way of aftermarket support. this is a great car for mommies with a heavy foot... but watch out for that gas mileage. mines terrible. boy racers: look elsewhere... you wouldnt want to pay this much to be whipped by an accord (which gets better mps). push it on the backroads and youll end up in a ditch. handling is that bad. car needs more R&D

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  The perfect cure for turning 30. - 2008 Volvo S40
  By Cdydatzigs - October 11 - 4:03 pm

  Growing up in the 1980s, Volvos were known as the boxy yuppy-mobiles that your hip friends parents drove. Nowadays, the cars are still hip but they are far from boxy. The S40 is the perfect entry-level sports sedan for the post-college crowd. The car is very attractive but you can still tell the car is a vault under its skin. Huge door pillars and the comforting thud when the doors close tell you this is still one of the safest cars on the road. Materials inside are durable and attractive, and the controls are very easy to read. There is some turbo-lag off the line, but when yer cruising at 25 mph on the freeway on ramp and need to get to 75mph in a hurry? This car flies at mid-range.

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  My first Volvo...wont be my last - 2000 Volvo S40
  By ColumbusS40 - October 1 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a Volvo since I was a kid and was quite surprised when I got financed into an S40 at agreeable terms. The maintenance schedule is a little high, I must admit, but in my opinion its worth it. In one year, Ive put about 20,500 miles on the car. (This will go down as I moved closer to the city). Very comfortable, very solid, and fun to drive. Like it a lot but will upgrade to a station wagon (V70)when I can.