5 Star Reviews for 2003 Volvo S40

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.30/5 Average
58 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Output from the 1.9-liter turbocharged mill is bumped up by 10 to 170 horsepower. A CD player makes its way onto the standard features list, and the front fascia gets a slight freshening thanks to a black egg-crate grille and body-colored side molding and bumpers. Inside you'll find a new three-spoke steering wheel and a four-dial instrument cluster. The sport package adds front and rear spoilers, blackout headlamp surrounds and 16-inch wheels, and the premium package now includes a leather-wrapped hand brake handle and gearshift lever.

Pros:
  • Strong complement of safety features, affordable base price, upscale interior.
Cons:
  • No manual transmission offered, lacks sporting intentions, pricing can quickly escalate with optional equipment installed.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 58.00
  • Great CAR!!! - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    This car has been a dream, I have had no problems with it, and the service department is amazing.

  • Incredible Car -- bellisimo!!!! - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    The motor is strong with no lag. The turbo is fully spooled at 1750RPM, the Torque converter stall speed is well above that. The trans shifts according to the type of driver you are and adapts quickly.. it will even anticipate desired acceleration after a turn/obstacle, and downshift before you get on the gas.The suspension in this car does not compare to any car that I have ever driven (I also own a Porsche 911). It quite simply, is phenomenal. The geometry is PERFECT. The car always feels planted. You can never misunderstand what the car is doing or what the car can do. It goes where you point it.

  • Culturally confused but very nice - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    I have never owned a Ford product. I have never owned a Volvo. Ive never owned a Mitsubishi product. Ive never owned a car built in Holland. One purchase covered all of those voids. That said, the car is well built, and gutsy. Its my wifes driver and she loves it. My only complaint with the car is that the 4 cylinder is a little noisy. But Ive driven few 4 cylinders that didnt sound like sewing machines.

  • Freds review - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    Of the 9 new cars Ive owned in the past 50 years, the S-40 is my all-time favorite--even better than the two 240s I owned for 15 years overall. Volvo--its for Life, really it is!!

  • Great bang for the buck - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    We test drove VW Passat, and Jetta. Both vehicles had a higher price tag. The S40 is by far a better car. Good power and the handleing is excellent for a Front Wheel drive car.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    This is the second S40 that i have owned. It is an exceptionally reliable car with good pick up and very good handling. I would recommend this car to anyone.

  • Volvo S40 - 2003 model - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    Have owned this car for 2 years. Excellent road car, great around town. A/C is exceptional, esp. for Texas heat. Turning radius is typical Volvo - turns on a dime. Love the car!

  • Just a great car!! - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    I love my car. I might mention that I do have all the options on my car. I have had very little problem with the car. The headlights have gone out, and I had the rear brakes replaced. The ride is very smooth and there is more than enough power when passing or entering a freeway. I have had my car 3 years, and after 34,000 miles, its just been very reliable. Oh, mileage on the highway seems to be very good.

  • VOVLO S40tay - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    Great car, great price!!!!

  • :thumbs up: - 2003 Volvo S40
    By -

    I was trying to decide on whether I should buy a new S40, new A4, or new 325i. Just by looking at hp/curb weight or tq/curb weight, the S40 is way ahead of the two. It beats both the A4 and 325i in torque (a fat torque band) while weighing in at under 2800lbs, while the other two are above 3200lbs. This makes a HUGE difference. Although this car is obviously not aimed at being a performance vehicle, it still handles well. The 325i or A4 may beat the S40 in an AutoX course (325 being FR and A4 being awd), but it really doesnt matter since this car will not be raced. I just wanted a sensible car that drives and looks nice.

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