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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  headache - 2001 Volvo S40
  By sadvolvo - March 5 - 10:00 am

  i dont even know where to begin with my s40s problems. the breaks need to be replaced a second time (at 20K). srs light has been on several times and air bag has been replaced. i have had problems with the air conditioning, check engine light, trunk lock, gas door motor, heated seat light, headlight, and more in less than two years. and sometimes the car wont start. i thought i was investing in a safe and reliable vehicle. lesson learned.

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  Who are these people? - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Dogfight - February 26 - 2:00 am

  I have no idea who is writing these reviews. This car has lived up to its reputation and has the get up it needs to be a solid sedan. All these complaints about blown lights?? Is this a scam to down grade the car value? My only complaint was an engine light that was fixed at the Volvo Dealership. If your taking your car to a neighborhood mechanic you get what you put into it.

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  TERRIBLE CAR - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Say no to Volvo - February 22 - 10:40 pm

  This car has been nothing but trouble since the day I bought it. AC switches on/off and turns to heat in the middle of summer. You cannot even change the battery without having to tow it to the dealership and have them reset the computer. Now the starter is dead. I will never, ever buy a Volvo again. Stick with Honda (I had a Honda before this car). Volvo S40s dont hold their resale, either.

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  Fun car. Buggy with age. - 2005 Volvo S40
  By cygnuspix - February 21 - 8:46 am

  I have my 05 T5 (FWD) since day one - just a hair over 9 years now (and is an auto transmission, but somehow not an option here). I still love getting in to it twice a day for a 30 mile commute. The fuel economy is tough to beat, averaging 32MPG. However, it is fussy and likes to be babied to avoid issues. My fuel pressure sensor failed, causing tremendous ride issues, but no error code was generated, therefore the dealer threw up their hands at the issue, and wanted $450 parts/labor to replace it. The part is $50 on Amazon.com, and takes 1 hour to install. If you feel the car lose power or otherwise ride rough, look into changing this sensor!

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  Best Bang for your Buck - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Mikey Z - February 12 - 11:30 pm

  My new S40 is incredible. I am 23 pre-dental student who never gave a thought to a Volvo until a friend recommended it. Now, I cant say enough about it. Its safety features are incredible and beat the heck out of its competitors. Not to mention that it rides very well, not too stiff, not too soft, but can handle curves and speed impresssivly well. Bottom line, it is safe, sporty, fun, and looks hot.

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  Sporty, Zippy, Peppy - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Fun Driver - February 8 - 3:23 am

  This is a sports car that will handle almost anything. Ive had it for a month now and driven everywhere. The handling is outstanding on mountain roads. The engine never showed signs of exhertion. In the city, its an eye-catcher because its different from the "traditional" Volvo. The money is well worth it if youre comparing with BMW, Audi, Acura, and Lexus.

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  Reasonably good vehicle - 2000 Volvo S40
  By ralrog - February 7 - 10:16 pm

  Weve put 150k miles on the car since it was new and have had a good experience overall. Good gas mileage, comfortable, and swallows a lot of luggage for a car this size. Problems have been the usual complaints for these cars - arm rest broke at 100k, cup holder jammed, and many headlight bulbs. Ive gotten really good at replacing them. No major problems. Currently have an intermittent starting problem that our local dealer doent seem to be able to fix. I usually wont buy a car the first year its made but this one fit our requirements so closely I decided to go ahead. A few early problems but a couple of software updates and it settled down. Good service, good car.

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  Such a dissappointment - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Bethanyraina - February 5 - 1:13 am

  I was so excited when I bought this car. I have always wanted a volvo and did my research on what a great car this was supposed to be. I have had nothing but problems since I bought it. First the air didnt work, then the side mirrors wouldnt work. Then the AC didnt work again. At least all of that was covered by warranty. Now, after 4 years and no warranty, the entire electrical system is failing, telling me the air bags will deploy, brakes dont work, its locked me in and out of the car numerous times, alarm goes off for no reason. It will cost me close to 3k to fix. This shouldnt happen after four years. Very disappointed, and will never buy a volvo ever again.

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  Great car - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Joseph Agiato - February 1 - 3:53 pm

  My wife and I think this is one of the best cars we have ever owned.

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  s40 - 2004 Volvo S40
  By N8theGr8 - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Love the design, volvo is slowly but surely changing themselves around. Excellent bang for you buck with this car.