The S40 is a quirky entry into the upscale market with outstanding safety scores and a simple but classy design. But it doesn't have the power that's now associated with its small but sporty class.
Our analysis shows the Volvo S40 doesn't woo drivers with sporty performance, unexpected utility or flash design -- rather, it entices with its elegant bodylines, cutting edge safety features and solid feel on the road. On the heels of an extensive refresh, the 2009 S40 returns to showrooms and lots with fewer powertrain options (although popular with reviewers, the poor-selling manual transmission is now gone), more standard features and a new T5 R-Design trim package with a modified exterior and interior design.
New reviews seem just as pleased as previous ones with the S40's strong attributes, and just as forgiving of the car's weaker traits. But if you can't justify the limited cargo capacity, consider the highly similar Volvo-V50-or-the-Audi A3's hatchback. If you're looking for a sportier ride, check out the Volkswagen GTI.
* "One of those cars that might not get an enthusiast's pulse racing but are well worth considering. It has a crisp and sporting feel, excellent steering, good looks, is reputed to be safe, and brings the Volvo brand to a younger, less affluent (and probably hipper) customer." -- Car and Driver
* "The S40 and V50 may not sell themselves to enthusiast drivers based solely on the way they carve corners and dust the quarter mile; but neither should their dynamics deter the hip, IKEA-loyal, young prospective buyers lured by their now even better-looking exterior styling and unmistakably Scandinavian interiors." -- Motor Trend
* "Nimble and peppy, if not overtly sporty." -- Forbes
* "A quick, compact four-door sedan you can get with both all-wheel drive and a stick shift. It's a genuine rival to all-wheel-drive versions of German sedans much prized by driving enthusiasts. -- BusinessWeek
S40 Performance - NA
The 2009 Volvo S40 is a competent, but not sporty performer. Test drivers report if that if that's what you're looking for, you'll be pleased with even the base trim. Car and Driver writes that the S40 is "pleasing rather than exciting, with decent steering and willing engines." The biggest change for the 2009 model is the discontinuation of the manual transmission in favor of just the five-speed Geartronic automatic. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn how reviewers have adjusted to the change.
S40 Exterior - NA
To reviewers, the Volvo S40 is one of the more stylish designs in the entry-level luxury class. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about the design changes made in the S40's 2008 model year that carryover well for 2009, or check out our Volvo S40 Photos.
S40 Interior - NA
Inside the 2009 S40 you'll enjoy the simple design and level of quality more than you're disappointed with the lack of space for cargo or rear passengers. As Automobile Magazine says, "the S40's interior is its best selling point." Read our full Interior Review to learn more about the numerous standard features offered in the less-is-more sedan, or click through our Volvo S40 Photo Gallery.
S40 Safety - NA
Staying true to Volvo's association with safe vehicles, the 2009 S40 does well in federal government crash tests, while the similar 2008 model performs well in insurance industry crash tests. Check out the full Safety Review for information on the S40's optional safety systems.
S40 Reliability - NA
The 2009 Volvo S40 has a basic warranty for the first four years or 50,000 miles. Continue with our full S40 Reliability Review to learn more about the S40's coverage.
