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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  Not a Volvo, A Mitsubishi - 2000 Volvo S40
  By wd - August 25 - 5:36 am

  Volvo made a critical error in marketing this Mitsubishi built car as a Volvo. It has really hurt their overall rep in the USA. While the car is decent and can last a good while if HEAVILY cared for (now at 135K and still running strong), it just does not have the build quality of a Swedish built sedan. Volvo if you learn anything from this experience, do NOT sell out again just to get market share...it hurts you in the long run. Volvo buyers are NOT simple minded and we know good products and bad products. The 2000-04 S40 is just a bad product (relative to what we expect)

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  Reliable for us - but not for many - 2002 Volvo S40
  By Matt - August 21 - 4:00 pm

  We bought a used 02 in early 06 with about 50k miles. It is now approaching 85k and we have had few problems. We had an oil leak for 1.5 years that the dealers could not fix, thought it was RMS but started cheap (RMS is $2k) fixed the Camshaft Seal ($300). That didnt fix it Finally an independent shop found it was the turbo return line, not uncommon and a $100 fix. Otherwise, we have had no real problems. The A/C occasionally blows hot air, something also not uncommon. In general, reliable for us, comfortable and fun to drive. However, shop just told us it was very rare to see this car with 7 years and 80k plus miles without a roulette of engine lights. So maybe we got a good one...

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  what a decision - 2001 Volvo S40
  By mkoh55 - August 18 - 4:49 am

  So I bought this car two years ago...thought I was getting a good buy but within a month I had problems. First, the service light came on and they told me I needed an oil change. Then the check engine light came on and had to replace and o2 sensor, then the thermastat, now spark plugs and wires, replaced two complete struts, one coil spring, now I am on another o2 sensor and ECT sensor. The check engine light seems to always be on and something seems to always be breaking. Horrible decision, intending on getting rid of it.

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  I love my car! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Erin - August 17 - 9:46 pm

  I have owned my S40 for 5 months now, and I am still completely satisfied with my purchase. Its a great looking car, fun to drive and I feel very safe knowing its a Volvo. I also get a lot of compliments on it! I would highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a compact car.

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  But This Car Now - 2003 Volvo S40
  By mgriffinwalters - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I had heard before I bought this car that it was junk and that my money would be better spent buying an Audi A4 of BMW 3-series (both of which can actually be cheaper than the S40 since I have yet to see an S40 that didnt come with all of the options). However, after purchasing this car I would never want one of the others. This car is incredibly comfortable inside and Volvo has paid attention to all of the little details. In past years this car may not have had some problems, but Volvo seems to have worked them all out now. Definitely a great buy, especially if you want something out of the ordinary.

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  what a ride!!!!!!!! - 2001 Volvo S40
  By volvospd - August 13 - 9:33 pm

  Bought my 01 s40 with 25k on it in 06. Inow have 123k. This car has been my favorite car. Its sweet looking, comfortable, fast as well u know. I average 35 mpg I use moble 1,93 octan and perform maintenance as suggested. I have had only one problem and it was my fault. I had to replace the fuel pressure regulator. I kept loading my fuel lines before starting the car. It was not expensive to replace at all just a couple hundred bucks at the dealer. Love this car I want one for every day of the week.

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  perfect car - 2003 Volvo S40
  By Paul_pl - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Simply the best, can not be compared to japan or german cars....

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  Great European car! - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Sasha - August 7 - 12:36 pm

  Volvo delivers what it promises...it drives great, it looks great and it is built to last. Its a great choice for people concernet abour reliablility, style and fuel economy.

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  Holy Cow, Where do I start. - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Grant - August 5 - 7:03 am

  I saw many of the reviews on this site and said OMG, I have had the same problems. I got this car to go back and forth to college, boy it was a nightmare. OK we will go down the list. Sunroof needed to be replace upon driving it off the lot (sunroof leaked in water), suspension has a lot of noise, Check engine light comes on when it wants, AC comes on when it wants and doesnt work at intermediate speeds, constantly replacement of bulbs (especially headlights, twice a year and they are not cheap), paint chips easy, turbo line leaked causing a oil leak, constantly replacement of brake pads and rotors, poor braking, AWFUL Fuel economy (around 17 MPG) continues below in improvements section*

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  Sporty with safety build in - 2005 Volvo S40
  By john H - August 4 - 3:13 pm

  The Volvo S40-T5 is a compact family car with the driving charactistics of a sports car. The adjustability of drivers seat and steering column make it even for a tail person like myself possible to be confortable in the S40- T5. Acceleration is impressive but will not set track records. The car is very sturdy built and the excellent reputation that Volvo has regarding safety was one of the factors why I bought the S40-T5. If you are like me and keep your vehicles for a long time (8-10 years)A Volvo is the car to consider.