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:

• 

  Great car for the value - 2008 Volvo S40
  By topgeardreams - August 28 - 4:09 am

  Recently picked up my 08 S40 T5 AWD. Compared to competition the value is great; higher rate of depreciation means this is a good used car to pick up (if youre planning on keeping it for a while). You would have to pay much more for similar Legacy GT or Audi A4. Handling is better than most sedans, but not as tight as an A4 in the steering or suspension. Good enough for spirited driving. While climbing mtn passes turbo seems to make more than ample power on my way to Tahoe. Acceleration isnt great either at low or midrange. (Tranny on auto keeps revs low, so using the tiptronic helps) On snow and ice the Haldex type awd system performs almost invisibly. Overall a very good buy. 24mpg avg

• 

  Tired of Beng in The Repair Shop - 2002 Volvo S40
  By NotThrilled - August 23 - 11:10 pm

  Supposed to be fun, right? The car squeaked for a week. Dealership couldnt find problem. They replaced the brakes, struts, steering column and still couldnt find it. It was discovered that it was a loose bolt, thats all. The A/C needed replaced 2xs Still warm air. The door handle keeps breaking. The driver seat tips forward when you brake and back when you step on the gas (Not so safe, eh?) Dealership has looked at it FIVE times and says nothng is wrong. Ive never owned any other car that had a driver seat with a spirit like that. Resale is terrible on this car. Tired of being asked by the Dealership, Will you give us a 10 for service? Just fix the car finally. Then maybe a "10"

• 

  Driving in the snow - 2006 Volvo S40
  By dana - August 22 - 1:03 pm

  This is my first Volvo. I have previously owned SUVs and also similar sized cars, like the Accord and a Camry. This car handles great on drive pavement. I love the zippiness and great gas mileage. Overall, it is a wonderful car. However, it does not handle well in snow or rain. In fact it is just a step better than a RWD car. This is my second winter with this car and I am so dissappointed.

• 

  Good car, bad cupholder - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Tristan - August 21 - 2:13 am

  My S40 is great to drive. It handles well, has nice acceleration, and is great when it comes to protection in a crash. It has had a few mechanical issues since Ive had it. At around 87000 miles, the left front wheel bearings needed to be replaced. At about 88000 miles, and after getting into one accident, the cruise control quit. Took the Volvo dealership an hour to tell me that they didnt know what was wrong, got it fixed by a local mechanic in a few hours. Fuel pressure regulator gave out at 103000 miles, as did the spark plug cables. Check engine light is overzealous. Parts are very expensive if you get into a crash or break a lens for the lights. Otherwise, this is a great car!

• 

  Bethanys Volvo S40 - 2006 Volvo S40
  By BRH - August 17 - 4:36 pm

  The new S40 is NOT your fathers Volvo! The recently revamped 2005 S40 has Volvos signature elegance and class, yet - despite its (somewhat boring) reputation for safety and reliability -- is incredibly fun to drive and punchy. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for class, excitement, and reliability at a price that is surprisingly easy-to-swallow.

• 

  Adios! - 2001 Volvo S40
  By Anonymous - August 16 - 5:23 am

  I just traded this car in for a Toyota after 10+ years of loyal Volvo ownership. This is the worst car I have ever owned. Meticulously maintained and the turbo blew at 50k, then the ignition coils, then the thermostat, and on and on. Not on par with what a Volvo owner expects from a car. It was cheap and it shows in every aspect of the car from the interior to the mechanical reliability. I am so glad to be rid of this car.

• 

  best buy in the luxury entry level class - 2006 Volvo S40
  By joseph from rockford - July 27 - 8:16 am

  i was looking for a 4 door sedan for my wife. we looked at the 3 series bmw (too pricey when options are added in) the audi A4 (wife hated the styling) and the C class mercedes (my choice, but it wasnt for me) we(she) choose the volvo for its safty features. i wound up buying it because comparably equipped it was several thousands less that its german counterparts. the drivers seat with its 12 way power and lumbar support is more comfortable than most family room recliners. it has all the bells and whistles to keep the conversation going at the country club. and its a good looking car. complaints? maybe the faux wood. but the dealer we bought from was first class. would buy again.

• 

  s40 t5 - 2004 Volvo S40
  By jeff50 - July 25 - 10:00 am

  fun to drive,quick, stylish, great seats , comfortable, great sound system, lots of saftey features

• 

  Volvo for life.... never - 2000 Volvo S40
  By JLba - July 16 - 4:13 pm

  I had dreamed of owning a Volvo for years and when I finally got my Volvo the nightmare began. In only owning my car for one in a half years I have easily put over $3000 in repairs. The check engine light turned on every other week it seemed like. Even Volvo repaired it and only 500 miles later it was on again. Volvo uses the cheapest plastic and it breaks just by touching it. The only thing I really liked was how it handled and the trunk and glove box space. Besides that Volvo should think about starting from scratch because this car is a waste.

• 

  Great car - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Rob - July 15 - 3:13 pm

  After eight months I still look forward to getting in the car. Not as much power as the T5 but more than enough for normal driving. Handling is superb. After driving Hondas, I appreciate the low end torque and the smooth shifting. Controls are logically designed. The interior is spartan but comfortable and without gimmicks. Fit and finish is excellent. I enjoy getting compliments on the car as there still are not that many around. I think it is one of the best looking current models.