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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  Great car - 2006 Volvo S40
  By s40 blue - December 5 - 7:16 am

  I bought this car in February and it is a wonderful car. I have nothing but great experiences with this car, tons of compliments and the dealership I bought it from was awesome

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  Love my 2003 S40 - 2003 Volvo S40
  By Sheri Ann Johnson - December 2 - 8:00 am

  I purchased my 2003 S40 in 07 with only 4600 miles on it. Ultimately a new car! I couldnt be happier with it. Its quick to get out the way & handles nicely, especially in the Florida rains. I do wish the back seat had more room for passengers, but its a great excuse to get out of driving! I feel safe driving, especially at night. Ive had no major issues, replaced a headlight & put on a new set of Michelins. Ill definitely replace it with another Volvo.

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  Ist Volvo - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Cope200 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Had two problems less than 250 miles. Air bag light came on and Climate Control actuator made noise. Dealer was prompt and courteous in fixing both problems. Really enjoy driving the car. Very secure to the road.

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  No more Volvos--EVER - 2000 Volvo S40
  By S40NoWay - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Extremely disappointed. In the shop more than I can count. Rear brakes, rotors, calipers replace. Oil line to turbo leaked. Headlites burnouts (its like headlites were just invented!), premature wear on tires and brake pads, etc, etc. Check Engine & service lites go on and off; All 4 wheel medallions fallen off. NO POWER BRAKE ASSIST INTERMITTENTLY ON STARTUP - MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE -dealer cant fix it. Electric vacuum booster pump is the culprit. Over the warranty limit so Im on my own with this hunk of junk. service department is the worst Ive EVER experienced. What arrogance and ineptness! cost of repairs is astronomical.

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  Great car - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Luis Rivera - November 12 - 5:21 pm

  I own this car since new, in my country is not easy to find european cars in manual transmission. Since I bouth found it great for similar market. The service in my country is not the best, but I have good mechanics.

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  Good, Safe Car - 2009 Volvo S40
  By Tom - November 7 - 10:43 am

  This is the third Volvo I have had and it continues to be a fun, safe car to drive. My previous Volvo was totaled in a serious accident, and my child and myself walked away relatively unhurt. The safety features and peace of mind are why you buy a Volvo. The 2009 model is more expensive, but the standard equipment is wonderful. With the warranty being four years and the maintenance coming for 3 years, it is still a good value compared to lower priced competitors. Volvo for life!

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  Run and never look back ! - 2001 Volvo S40
  By 1tickedmom - November 2 - 10:00 am

  When I choose the Volvo S40 I believed that I was purchasing a safe and reliable car with top-notch customer service. WRONG! What a lemon. The paint on the car is chipping off. The power adapter in the car has failed 4times and the service light comes on for no apparent reason(the dealership can never find anything wrong)SRS light has come on 3times in six months and the air bag system had to be replaced twice. The cup holder over the cd player is a joke and the cup holder in the back pulls right(it is currently laying on the back floor of the car). The A/C NEVER gets cold enough (dealer says checks out OK) but Im sweating it out.Bottom line, Run and never look back.

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  Classic and Sporty Car - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Anjali - October 16 - 2:40 pm

  S40 is simply fantastic. Very classy and yet very sporty. The newly re- designed 2005 model looks much better than the 2004. The 2.4i has 168 HP, which is enough to leave behind many cars at intersections. Brakes are excellent. The ride is very comfortable and smooth. The seats have lumbar support which is great. Overall, a very sturdy car which looks great on the outside and beautiful on the inside. Steering is not as easy as the Infinity or some of the more expensive cars but the manual says it gives you controlled back which is the perfect term to use. Youll get used to the steering and like it. The 2005 model feels a little better than the 2004 model. A great buy...worth very penny!

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  Best car Ive owned!!! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Irvine - October 15 - 12:33 pm

  After over 3 years of test driving new cars (yes, I realize thats a bit much) I finally decided on the new S40. I drove the Acura TL (it gave me whiplash between every gear in the AUTOMATIC!), Infiniti G35 (performed well, but looks like plastic on the inside), Nissan Mazima (cornered like the car was on stilts), Honda Accord (GREAT car, but not as classy as I wanted), and many many more. Out of all these, the Volvo had the best performance, and best interior/exterior design, without giving into the BMWs poor reputation for reliability. Im focused on reliability and quality while still getting soemthing I ENJOY driving. Ive had the Volvo S40 for 6 months and no signs of problems.

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  Positive Experience - 2000 Volvo S40
  By KHoffman - October 15 - 2:00 am

  My car was a dealer loaner, so it was a year used when I bought it. This has been a great car for me, and I drive alot. I love the pick up of the turbo and I find the car comfortable to drive. I have replaced a few light bulbs, I have not had any major problems. My dealer has superior service which makes me like the car even more.