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:

• 

  if you live in new york stay away - 2003 Volvo S40
  By jack tawil - September 28 - 2:00 am

  ive had this car for a year the cars performance as far as pick up is great. in the snow it sucks , if you hit a pot hole you need a new wheel base a tire and an alignment. the car really could get on your nerves. maintenance very pricy. overall sometimes it could be your friend but in a second it can back stab you

• 

  My First Volvo - 2005 Volvo S40
  By judy - September 23 - 12:40 pm

  This is my first Volvo and I came to it from a Mazda Miata. I do miss the performance of the Miata, my Volvo seems a tad sluggish at times, but overall a good car. My (older) parents are able to get in and out of the car easily and the three of us can be comfortable enough. I dont have any regrets, but the Miata was more fun.

• 

  2005 volvo S40 - 2005 Volvo S40
  By amit patel - September 19 - 6:30 pm

  This is a real fun car to drive and it is one of the best handling cars that I have ever owned. I didnt expect this nice an offering from Volvo. They have really out done themselves this time

• 

  This car is a lemon! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By deuce316 - September 12 - 8:50 pm

  Within the first year of owning this car it had to be flatbed towed due to a faulty steering column. The doors and locks would not respond to either the key or the controls inside the car. Volvo looked at it 3 times before they could determine the problem.I had to drive there while the problem was happening to prove I wasnt crazy. I have 60k miles and I have to spend $1600 on a new clutch and clutch slave cylindar. the car is 4 yrs old and just over the warranty. Volvo will not take any ownership of the costs. A clutch should not break in 4 years. I am a very experienced standard transmission driver and it was not due to my handling. This car is a money pit! stay away at all costs.

• 

  Consistent 32 mpg and fun - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Cban - September 6 - 4:13 pm

  I really enjoy the car and the mileage is unbelievable given my driving habits. The car stops on a dime, which has saved me quite a number of times. The brake dust is a bit annoying, but the pads will be upgraded to ceramic when I have to replace them. I agree that my driver seat tips forward when you brake and back when you step on the gas. Its minor, but it is a unique feeling. I am a bit concerned about the quality given that my door latch on the exterior rear passenger door no longer works and the locking fuel door sometime has to manually unlatched from inside the trunk. All in all, I recommend the vehicle as it is fun, safe and merely sips on fuel.

• 

  Love my Volvo! - 2003 Volvo S40
  By TLA72 - September 5 - 2:00 am

  The car is easy to handle and fun to drive. It is a fast little car. The leather interior is great quality and the seats are very comfortable. As a mother, it is a great feeling to know that I am driving my son in one of the worlds safest cars!

• 

  not so great car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By unsatisfied owner - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I have had problems with this car since I got it. The check-engine light has come on at least four times and the car has stalled on me twice( once for a defective computer chip and the other time was because the oxygen hose came off), I took it in to the service center at the dealership and theyve fixed it. This car has given more problems than it is worth (Im trading it in for something better and more reliable), its basically a defect.

• 

  Excellent car - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Veronika - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car a year ago and I love it! I always get compliments, even when I am at traffic lights. It rides smooth and is very sturdy. The only thing that bothers me is the cupholder blocking the stereo. I still cant understand why someone designed it to be in the place that it is.

• 

  Great Commuter - 2007 Volvo S40
  By DJF - September 2 - 2:10 pm

  I have over 100,000 miles on this car in about 3 years. Fun to drive, comfortable and I feel safe in it. No real problems with the car, even ran it down 3 1/2 quarts low on oil with no developing problems. Switched to synthetic oil about 50,000 miles

• 

  My S40 - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Czar - September 1 - 2:26 am

  First, let me say that I do love my car. Its reliable and safe. The problems that crop up are minor but sometimes annoying. Let me first disagree with some: the armrest is fine, paint is amazing and I dont know what glare theyre talking about. That being said, I believe the manual seats could be redesigned, and the cup holder is atrocious. Rear locks do stick. A lot of little nothings. However, its a blast to drive at speed. It also handles reasonably well and I like the stiff feel. Its also very safe speaking from fender-bender experience. I recommend it as a great college car (when I bought it, anyway).