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:

• 

  Excellent Choice! - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Leon3322 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Excellent choice in a vehicle for a company that is known for safety and reliability.

• 

  Great feel for the money - 2007 Volvo S40
  By joe - July 28 - 3:40 pm

  This car has been a pleasure since driving out of the dealership. Feel of quality inside and out. My last car was a bmw 325 and this has more comfort and room not to mention a better price. I have the 2.4 Which has adequate acceleration but if your looking for a little more getup go with the higher hp engine. Feels similar to the audi a4 as far as handling and inside space, with also a much better price tag. Controls were simple to use and everything has elegant simplicity about it. Go with the premium sound system.

• 

  Wonderful Car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Lauren Waitkus - July 26 - 7:26 am

  My Volvo S40 is the most comfortable car that I have ever driven in. I am very glad that I purchased this vehicle. It is rated as one of the safest cars, and I always feel safe when I am driving in it.

• 

  great 2nd car - 2002 Volvo S40
  By majand3gals - July 22 - 2:00 am

  My Husband needed a reliable sedan to replace an aging Honda Civic. We were originally looking at the VW jetta and the Accord. Nothing compared to the features and price of the s40. Our ONLY gripe about it is the small size of the back seat.Fine for kids, small for adults. safe, reliable, fast, fun affordable- AND its a volvo, so I am counting on my 10 yr old is taking this car to college!!

• 

  Interior Engine Damage = $3-4,000 - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Floridanita - July 21 - 8:06 am

  I absolutely love my car. Except the air conditioner went out after about 3 years and just now on my way to work, my car just quit. I found out there is interior engine damage and will cost thousands to fix plus the 1,000 to fix the a/c. It is not the cost of the Volvo - it is the maintenance and upkeep - windshield wipers are $80 for example.

• 

  Great - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Praveen - July 19 - 3:36 am

  Its a nice car. the interior is great and i always feel it as i am in a new car. But comparatively with other cars engine sounds more.

• 

  Performance Bargain - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Michael - July 5 - 7:26 am

  Ive been driving this car for about a month and I love it. It makes my commute enjoyable instead of it being a drudgery. The Volvo S40 handles like its on rails, stuck to the road like glue.Really comfortable. The car feels so solid and well built. The 5 cylinder engine has a surprising amount of power. It really takes off when you punch the accelerator, and yet, fuel economy is better than my Honda Accord. Im averaging about 32 mpg on the highway. I wish I had bought this car a long time ago!

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Mary - July 4 - 7:43 am

  Driving is fun, safety is superb, look is sleek...as my 20 year old son told me..."Mom, you got yourself a sexy little car!"

• 

  Great car for my used car budget - 2004 Volvo S40
  By JRGILLESPIE - June 28 - 7:56 pm

  I owned a 94 850 wagon and loved it, then I saw this one for sale at a lot. So far its great. I love the eye catching "Virtual Blue" color. The turbo is great and its got good pick- up. My $11k went far and I know this car will last me just like my last one did. I love the aggressive look of the front end and the rims. My complaints are like most everyone elses...the radio is ridiculous. The knobs to control the presets are just awkward. A "popping" trunk release would have been nice as well. I rated reliability at an 8 but I havent had the car long. I base this on previous Volvo experience.

• 

  Traded 2000 S40 for 2004 S40 - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Mark Gray - June 23 - 10:00 am

  I just traded my 2000 S40 for a 2004 S40. The dealer and the automobile are 1st Class. The small things I did not like about my 2000 such as location of window and mirror controls and cup holders have been improved greatly. The car also has a 5 speed automatic now and is much smoother and quiter. Some slight body changes make the car better than the 2000 model. A great car has been made almost perfect! Perfect would require about 200HP and 200lbs.ft. torque.