Volvo S40 Review

2009 Volvo S40 T5 Sedan Shown

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 218-horsepower 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 current Volvo S40 compact sport sedan was introduced midyear as a 2004.5 model. (A related wagon variant is called the V50.) There are two trim levels for the S40. The front-wheel-drive 2.4i trim comes with a 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine that makes 168 hp and comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic is optional. Those looking for a sportier drive should take a look at the T5 trim, which is powered by a turbocharged 227-hp 2.5-liter five-cylinder. The five-speed automatic is mandatory for all S40 T5 models. Volvo offers either front- or all-wheel drive for the S40 T5.

Standard features include a telescoping steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls, stability control and a full complement of airbags. Leather seating, premium Dolby ProLogic audio, a navigation system and a sport package are just some of the optional luxury features that Volvo offers. 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 functionality. The driving position is snug and comfortable, but adults seated in the rear might find the legroom tight.

In reviews, our editors have found the Volvo S40 to be an entertaining car to drive. The chassis and suspension give the car sharp handling attributes. The optional sport package comes with a revised suspension and bigger wheels and tires, which improves cornering performance at the expense of comfort. For most buyers, the standard suspension setup will provide plenty of thrills while offering more cushioning over potholes. As the base 2.4-liter engine's output is rather unimpressive, going with the T5 probably isn't a bad idea.

Past Volvo S40 Models

There have been a few changes to the current-generation Volvo S40 since its introduction. Originally, the S40 had an optional six-speed manual transmission available for the T5; it was discontinued for the front-drive model for 2007 and the all-wheel-drive model for 2008. The T5 was also originally rated at 218 hp, until '08. Other changes include standard stability control on all S40s for 2007, and upgraded audio components and the new blind-spot monitor for '08.

The first-generation 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.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.