The Volvo S40 is a medium executive saloon which was created in an attempt on Volvo's part to make a premium modern vehicle.
Insurance Groups: 18 - 26
MPG Range: 27 - 74
Latest Volvo S40 Car Reviews:
Inside the cabin there’s good adjustment available on the driver’s seat and steering wheel, so finding the best driving position is easy. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and all round vis...
The S40 D3 SE is a good car and a fine alternative to the mainstream German competition. It's cheap to run, beautifully made and stylish.
The Volvo S40 2.0 SE Lux Edition 4dr is an attractive saloon which boasts decent levels of performance. It has a comfortable and spacious cabin, making for the perfect family vehicle. It delivers a...
An attractive saloon which makes an excellent family car, the Volvo S40 2.0 R-DESIGN Edition 4dr comes equipped with great entertaining, safety and security features to please both the driver and p...
Volvo S40 Overview
The latest S40 is built on the same platform as the Ford Focus meaning the S40 has good level of performance, but this comes at a price, and quite an expensive one at that.
Regardless of price the S40 is a good drive with responsive handling and a great deal of grip.
Background
The Volvo S40 was originally produced in 1995 and stood as an example of Volvo making an effort to move away from the image of a manufacturer who produces mainly tough workhorses.
The first and second generation models of the S40 have both been made available in saloon and estate form.
The first generation S40 was produced from 1995 to 2004 receiving a number of technical improvements in 2000. The second generation began in 2004 with a new design based on the Volvo P1 platform. The second generation model shares similarities with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus.
In 2008 the S40 received another facelift ensuring it remains current. Over the years the S40 has been nominated for a selection of awards including the ‘World Car of the Year’ award in 2005.
2010 also saw further developments for the S40, it is now available with new engines which comply with the Euro 5 mission standard. The 1.6D DRIVe model for example, comes with a start-stop system amongst other features which are designed especially to cut down fuel consumption and emissions, so hopefully you won’t have to spend as much on fuel.
Overview
The S40 offers so much versatility and practicality that it will appeal to a wide range of buyers. Brits who love the hatchback body-shape may be hesitant to give the S40 a try, but the car is so comforting and soothing that if given the chance it just might win a few hatchback lovers over.
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