Performance

The Volvo S40 kicks in with a 1.6 litre 100bhp petrol, continuing up through a 1.8, 2.0 and 2.4 litre, and peaks with the ferocious turbocharged 2.5 litre T5 variant first seen in the Focus ST. The 1.6 and 1.8’s are fun, rev happy little units, the 2.4 has good solid yet refined power. For those who prefer the black stuff, there is a choice of 3 diesels, in 1.6, 2.0 and the now familiar 2.4 D5 engine as seen across the Volvo family, although this is limited to an automatic gearbox only.

Ride & Handling

Anyone coming from a previous generation Volvo S40 will barely recognise this new car, so vast a leap forward is the improvement in the handling. Not traditionally a Volvo strong point, the car is nimble and direct, and now positively enjoys being thrown at the corners. Steering is well judged and responsive, but a traditional owner might find the suspensions a little on the firm side.

Reliability

Always a strong point, the Volvo S40 continues the brands reputation, with engines and mechanicals that are well proven, and the interior has the same high grade soft feel plastics you’d expect, together with the Bang & Olufsen style floating aluminium centre console that is becoming a trademark. It looks good, and switchgear feels solid, although some of the buttons can be a little fiddly.

Specifications

This is a well equipped motor, and should be as there is a slight price premium over more mass market offerings in this segment. The range starts with the S spec with climate control, electric windows, CD player, 16” alloys and cruise control, New 'R Design' trim gives a good looking bodykit, firmer suspension, along with a nice set of larger wheels and sportier interior, SE models add more luxury options like electric memory seats, while the SE Sport combines both. Popular upgrades are items like the winter pack, adding heated seats and headlight powerwash, and as you’d expect, the S40 majors on Safety with a plethora of airbags, and stability control as standard.

Living with the Car

This Volvo seems designed with the driver in mind, as front headroom and legroom are both accommodating, the front seats comfortable and supportive with a good driver position and well laid out controls. Rear passengers suffer for this slightly, with less space than some of the larger offerings in the class. Boot space is acceptable, but not cavernous – see the larger estate offerings in the range if you need a car that can swallow a wardrobe with ease.

Summary

A well built, classy and surprisingly agile car, the Volvo S40 is certainly a more than proficient all round package, with more than enough style to stand out from the usual fleet offerings in this class. Traditional Volvoists may find the ride a little firm compared to say a V70, but the entertaining handling and individual character more than make up for it, and should also guarantee stronger residual values come sale time. Overall, a great all round package that has made its own market niche.

Learning Resources

For further information on the Volvo Car range visit Volvo Cars UK: Volvo Cars UK Website.

For education and to learn about the history of Volvo Cars see Wikipedia: Wikipedia History of Volvo Cars.