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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  Go Volvo - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Ora May Harrell - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Over all as a owner and avid driver. I look forward to staying in the volvo family. For I am eyeing the S60 R. Volvo, you keep up the good work. I checked out the S40 2005, It sounds pretty good. I can not wait to see them on the road. By the way, If you guys realy read these notes, hit me back. Sincerly, Peace,speed, and safty.

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  Great Little Car! - 2006 Volvo S40
  By New Volvo Owner - March 27 - 5:03 am

  This is my first "new" car purchase and I am completely happy with my choice. It was a toss up between The Volvo S40 and the Audi A4 and the Volvo won out because I ended up saving about $4,000 over the Audi. Some would say that you cant compare the two, but I feel that I got the better deal. I love my new car and wouldnt trade it for the Audi for any reason. The handling is responsive and pick up in the T5 model is great!

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  More Than Fair Value - 2008 Volvo S40
  By Happy Pittsburgher - March 23 - 6:00 pm

  I narrowed onto this model as the best dollar value to replace one of our cars. While it does not have neck snaping acceleration, it is far from underpowered and it will snap your neck while cornering. Mileage on secondary roads is great, city is real good and highway if fantastic. Little negatives: no inside trunk relase or on the key fob and the doors do not automatically unlock when the key is removed.

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  Unbeatable Value - 2005 Volvo S40
  By AZDriver - March 11 - 8:20 pm

  I just got one of the last 2004.5s at a discount of nearly $6,000. I got the 2.4i fully loaded, with nearly every option for $23,400. Ive been researching cars now for the last 6 months and have test driven numerous competitors such as the new Subaru Legacy, Mazda 3S, Audi A4, and Acura RSX. The S40i drives better than all of them...not quite as fast as the Audi or Acura, but a smoother more comfortable drive. It blows the Subaru and Mazda out of the water although the Subie was much nicer than the Mazda. Great dealership experience. This is my 3rd Volvo and I keep buying them for a reason...they are truly great cars. I just hope their quality doesnt decrease now that theyre Ford.

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  Im Eagely Letting Go of My Dream - 2000 Volvo S40
  By fox - March 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought my S40 in 2001. I had always wanted a volvo and I figured that I should go ahead an get one. the brakes pads had to be replaced about a month after purchase. The lightbulbs go out to many times to count. there are some stranges squeaking noises coming from it. All in all I like my zippy car but my children cannot take the unrealisticly small backseat and the horrible interior designing and planning for buttons and cup holders not to mention the fact that it has created a lot of negative equity. I am looking for a way out.

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  Im Eagely Letting Go of My Dream - 2000 Volvo S40
  By Fox - March 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought my S40 in 2001. I had always wanted a volvo and I figured that I should go ahead an get one. the brakes pads had to be replaced about a month after purchase. The lightbulbs go out to many times to count. there are some stranges squeaking noises coming from it. All in all I like my zippy car but my children cannot take the unrealisticly small backseat and the horrible interior designing and planning for buttons and cup holders not to mention the fact that it has created a lot of negative equity. I am looking for a way out.

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  Love it! - 2005 Volvo S40
  By Michael S. - March 7 - 9:16 pm

  OK, so I dont drive much. I work from home, so I do mostly short trips with an occasional 30 mile highway drive. That said, I love my S40. Great pickup on the highway when I need it (80 without even trying), OK gas mileage around town. I have the premium sound and moonroof. Loved the moonroof before we hit rainy season here in Miami, and the sound system is like being in a concert hall. Not many S40s on the road here, so its nice having a somehwat unique car. Extremely pleased so far (even though I havent even broken 1,000 miles yet).

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  Bad Brakes - 2003 Volvo S40
  By jamminjay - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Brakes should NOT fail at 15,000 miles! On a regular maintenance trip to the dealer they informed us that the rear brakes had less than 10% life life and needed to be replaced. WHAT???? Other than that a peppy little car, pretty solid.

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  Repair and replace - 2004 Volvo S40
  By Edwin - February 28 - 10:00 am

  It is unbelievable how many times I have had to return to the dealership. To date I have had to replace the vacuum pump, steering wheel, rear seat, trunk latch, rear brakes, front tires, turbo, repaint, arm rest, cup holder, and umpteen headlights. I saw the service manager Richard more than my wife.

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  my volvo S40 2.00T - 2000 Volvo S40
  By luke - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Im saddened to here the negatives although i have not had it long i love it! I had a 1969 Volvo before and i loved that one too i have had Hondas,Fords and a Toyota and they all stink big time!! So i decided to go back to Volvo i am soooo glad i did, now when i see a Honda on the road i cant help but laugh, because they are trouble on wheels! If you want to complain about a Volvo go get a Honda if they dont rust to peaces then they will break into peaces, yes parts are expensive for Volvo, but they dont seem to break my 1969 Volvo after 6 years the only problem i had was getting someone to set the twin SU carbs.