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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  Its a Mitsubishi and it shows! - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Dude - July 15 - 3:00 am

  Ive had a few Volvos and they were all better off than this one. Always has some kind of problem even though I maintain the car way better than whats called for. I only keep it because now I drive a crazy amount for work and the fuel mileage is good when its not blowing O2 sensors! It rattles like crazy and sometimes I want to set it on fire. I should have kept the S70 because real Volvos are great cars. How disappointing!

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  4th Time a Charm - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Ric - July 10 - 6:06 am

  I have now purchased my fourth Volvo. I own a 240 GL (each of my kids learned to drive in it) a V70 XC AWD (wifes) and an 850 GLT. Combined, I have over 550K miles on them all - and this isnt counting my first one, a 240 DL wagon which I put over 300K on as the kid mover car!! Now I own an S40 T5 AWD and it is the best Volvo I have ever had! If I am careful, I even get good gas mileage (around 29 mpg combined). It is fun to drive and a solid handling and feeling car. I anticipate putting lots of miles on this car like I have my other ones!

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  Do not buy this car w/ more than 100k miles - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Andrew B - July 8 - 12:24 am

  My the 2.5T back in college w/ 75k miles because we got a good deal from a friend at a dealership. Drove fine until we hit about 110k and then it was one repair after another. My wife has sentimental attachment to the car, but I would get rid of it tomorrow if I could. It is a mediocre car that calls itself luxury - decent power, decent interior, decent handling, poor brakes, outdated infotainment even for the time...nothing great about the car. Over the past year weve easily put $5000 in non-routine repairs and have experienced several breakdowns. One was a software update which the dealer never notified us of. If you want a luxury car spend a few grand extra for a beamer or audi, if you want a reliable car (which has basically everything the volvos do minus a little power) get a Honda or Toyota. Will never get another Volvo. Also get mediocre MPG for the power offered.

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  Great car, even with a few flaws! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By Matt - June 29 - 12:53 am

  I absolutely love this car! I fell in love with it as soon as I took it out for the test drive. Sharp looking and gets lots of attention. I really only have 2 issues with the car. First, city mileage isnt what I expected it to be. I do almost all of my driving in-city and find myself at the gas pump more than I expected. Second, the rear brakes have started to squeal when backing up, and the problem seems to be a mystery. Ive had the car in twice (with a 3rd looming). Ive done some checking online and found my problem, while not widespread, is not unique to my car either (no solution IDd). Its a frustrating issue that I shouldnt be dealing with on a car 4200 miles in.

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  More Bang Less Buck - 2004 Volvo S40
  By rcnst - June 12 - 10:00 am

  I dare you to test drive this car. You will be astounded and amazed. I was. I mean after all, its a Volvo. The brands not exactly the spicest salsa on the shelf. Yet, this car has the horsepower and acceleration of a BMW 330 and A4 3.0 for thousands less. The interior is innovative and clean, while torque steer is negligble. And during the winter months youll laugh at all those "rear wheel drive" snobs stuck in a snow bank. The brakes are sure stopping, and its safer than a pillow. My wifes a little speed demon who loves this ride and the times are few and fortunate when I can take this baby for a spin.

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  Great Car - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Ted Feldman - June 9 - 10:50 pm

  So happy I purchased the S40. It is fun to drive, great style and performance. I am actually getting the gas mileage that was posted on the window - 21-30.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Volvo S40
  By alainecd - June 3 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car new for $21,995 + tax and lic. with premium package (leather and moonroof!) You cant beat that price. It has excellent safety features and is a comfortable ride. The interior materials are very nice and classy.

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  Is This a Volvo? - 2003 Volvo S40
  By CGs binky - May 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car 3 months.I have taken 2 long trips,commute and fun trips.On short drives it handles and has great pick-up.On long drives it has been extremely comfortable and easy to drive.In a pinch,it moved with stabil- ity and traction.Ive never owned a Volvo,but I am absolutely sure my money was well spent.It has been fun, good- looking, comfortable and best of all, safe. It has enough verve to equal the responsiveness of a manual trans.As a friend mentioned -"look at all the old Volvos you see on the road".Cant say I want to own an old Volvo,but its nice to know it would likely last as long as I would want.I could not be happier with this car!

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  A Great Car, mostly - 2005 Volvo S40
  By JohnnyVolvo - May 27 - 8:16 pm

  I like this car. I like the interior, the exterior, the fit and finish, etc. etc. etc. If I had it to do all over again, I would still look very closely at this car. The fuel economy is bad though. No way around it, my car gets lousy gas milage. Advertised mileage is 22 City and 31 Hwy. I get 21 and some change on the highway. I really dont drive in the city enough to make any claim to what I would get there, but 21 on the highway? Nope....not acceptable mileage.

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  I just loooove this car! - 2007 Volvo S40
  By Nicolle - May 13 - 12:56 am

  I just got this car and i totaly love it...it does handels great and it is soo nice having a luxury entry sedan.