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2000 Volvo S40
Walkaround
In keeping with Volvo's other newer models, the S40 has much more curvaceous
lines than the boxy Volvos of the not-so-distant past. The S40 sedan and the
V40 wagon are both front-drive compact cars powered by a smooth turbocharged
four-cylinder engine.
The exterior design is pleasing with a nice low hood that extends back in an upward line to a high trunk. The side windows are fairly large giving the car an appearance of being bigger than it actually is.
The rear of the five-door V40 wagon is nicely integrated into the body so it does not look like it has been grafted onto the sedan's trunk as in some station wagon models from other manufacturers.
Safety, as one would expect with Volvo, was a key consideration in designing the S40. It has the obligatory dual airbags and other mandatory safety features. In addition it comes standard with side airbags (SIPS) and a whiplash protection system (WHIPS). Development by Volvo has lead to a second-generation SIPS that activates in different ways depending on the type of accident. Volvo claims the system is effectively two airbags in one.
WHIPS is the same whiplash protection system that is found in bigger Volvos. It is activated when the occupant of a front seat is forced back against the backrest and headrest in a frontal collision. The body is cushioned by the backrest, which moves back in a parallel movement. It helps prevent rebounding of the body, milliseconds after the initial impact. The front seat belts also include a pyrotechnic pre-tensioning system that automatically tightens the belts at the time of an accident.
There is just one engine choice - a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower. A light-pressure turbocharger helps deliver this impressive power output and also endows the engine with great low-end torque that is so important in making an engine feel more powerful. In fact, its performance is on par with many V6-powered compact cars. Maximum torque is available as low as 1800 rpm and continues strongly all the way to 4800 rpm.
Although there is no manual transmission available, this should not be a problem for those who like spirited performance. This high-torque engine works nicely with the four-speed automatic transmission. The transmission has three settings - sport, economy and winter -- to suit different styles of driving.
Interior
Features
Volvo has resisted the temptation to try and make the interior imitate a luxury
car. Nonetheless it has added small touches to differentiate it from being just
another econobox. The S40 (sedan) and V40 (wagon) can be ordered with a small
amount of imitation wood trim that accentuates the dashboard, center console
and door panels. The top of the dash and the doors are covered in a nice soft
plastic material on all models.
The gauges are neatly designed with light gray on dark gray lettering. Some people might find the lettering a little small to see. An optional onboard computer provides useful trip information such as average speed and average fuel consumption (that showed 28 mpg while we drove the car). Climate control on all models is automatic and the controls are located conveniently high next to the steering wheel in the center of the dashboard. The radio controls are lower down and harder to reach; and they are hidden if the solo cupholder is in use. The cupholder is an ingenious device that pops out of the dash vertically and turns to a horizontal position. It is spring loaded to automatically adjust for different size beverage containers.
Front headroom and legroom is good, but tall passengers in the rear seats will find themselves somewhat cramped unless they are in a car with a short driver or front-seat passenger. Access through 525h73f the doors is fine as they open wider than in some cars.
Access to the trunk is somewhat restricted because the rear window slopes a long way back and down low. Trunk capacity, however, is quite good at 13 cubic feet -- the same as the Honda Accord. The rear seat has a 70/30 split and can be folded down to substantially increase the carrying capacity. The V40 wagon has a total cargo volume of 61 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, which is slightly less than the Accord or VW Passat. Cargo nets and belts are provided in both models for securing stuff.
Driving Impressions
First impressions on driving the car were very favorable. Although the car is
only available with automatic transmission it moved briskly away from a
standing start and the transmission shifted smoothly through the gears. Despite
only being powered by a four-cylinder engine, the low-pressure turbocharger
helps give the engine a greater amount of low-end torque that makes it feel
like a V6. Fortunately, unlike turbochargers of days gone by, you can barely
tell this engine is boosted as there is no whine, sudden surge of power or even
a boost gauge.
Handling of the S40 is acceptable. It is not in the class of
a BMW sports sedan, but it is better than many compact cars. There was little
body roll in corners and the car felt stable. The steering, however, proved a
little disappointing. It was fine on the twisty roads but we found it had a
dead on-center feel on straight roads. Apparently Volvo engineers modified the
steering and suspension for the
Overall, the car is quiet with only a little tire noise coming through to the passenger compartment.
Summary
All told, the Volvo S40 is a perfectly competent compact sedan which should
satisfy buyers looking for a smaller Volvo. However, it's not likely to entice
people away from a BMW or even a Volkswagen Passat, both of which are more
European in character with their sportier handling and style. The Volvo S40 has
more of a Japanese feel to it, which is perhaps not surprising considering it
is the creation of a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Volvo in 
2000 Volvo S40
Model Lineup: S40 sedan ($22,900), V40 wagon ($23,900) Engines: 1.9-liter dohc inline-4 Transmissions: 4-speed automatic Safety Equipment (standard): dual front and side airbags, ABS Safety Equipment (optional): N/A Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles Assembled In: The Netherlands
Specifications as Tested
Model
Tested (MSRP):
S40 Standard Equipment: (S40) Automatic transmission, power
steering, alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control, remote
keyless entry, anti-theft system, power windows, heated power mirrors, daytime
running lights (DRL), 5 mph bumpers, AM/FM stereo radio/cassette system Options
as Tested (MSRP): Sports Plus package ($1,900) includes rear spoiler,
front foglights, sport steering wheel, power driver's seat, SC-816 radio with
CD player, premium speakers, trip computer; Sunroof package ($2,200) includes
glass sunroof, leather upholstery, simulated wood dash trim, wood gear lever;
weather package ($850) includes Dynamic Stability Assistance, heated seats,
headlamp washer/wiper; metallic paint ($400); destination charge ($575) Destination
Charge: ($575) Gas Guzzler Tax: N/A Price as
Tested (MSRP): $28,250 Layout: front-engine,
front-wheel drive Engine: 1.9-liter dohc 16v twin-turbocharged
inline-4 Horsepower: 160 @ 5100 Torque: 170 @
1800-4800 Transmission: 4-speed automatic EPA fuel
economy, city/hwy: N/A Wheelbase: 100.4 Length/Width/Height:
176.5/67.7/55.6 Track, f/r: 57.2/58 Turn Circle:
34.8 Seating Capacity: 5 Head/Hip/Leg room, f:
37.6/51.7/41.4 Head/Hip/Leg room, m: N/A Head/Hip/Leg
room, r: 36.5/51.7/32.7 Trunk Volume: 13.2 Payload:
N/A Towing Capacity: N/A Suspension, f:
Independent Suspension, r: Independent Ground
Clearance: N/A Curb Weight: 2998 Tires:
P195/60-15 Brakes, f/r: disc/disc Fuel Capacity:
15.9
Overall, the car is quiet with only a little tire noise coming through to the passenger compartment.
Safe Medium-Class Dutch Cars
The first car to
emerge from the NedCar plant in Born was a Mitsubishi. However, Volvo
introduced its S40 and V40 in 1995. These were rugged, yet attractive
medium-class models which quickly achieved success in several countries.
Following a dispute with Audi over designations, Volvo introduced a new system
of naming its cars, the Dutch products being the first examples. In the new
system, 'S' stands for 'Saloon' (or '
BTCC activities continued in 1995, now with the Volvo 850
Volvo brings its style of safety to the compact segment.
By John Rettie
The wait is over
for Volvo lovers who have wanted a small car -- and for small-car lovers who've
wanted a Volvo. Europeans have been able to buy a small Volvo for many years.
Finally, the company has begun to export its 40-series to the
Those who value Volvo's reputation for safety need look no further than this model for a compact car that is available as a four-door sedan or station wagon.
Model Lineup
Volvo has priced the S40 aggressively such that it costs much the same as a
Honda Accord or Toyota Camry with similar levels of equipment. The base price
of $22,900 ($23,900 for the V40) includes all the safety items except traction
control. Main options include leather seats ($1200), power driver's seat
($495), premium speakers ($400) and sunroof ($1200). There are several
different packages available that combine options and lower the overall cost.
For example, the DSA (Dynamic Stability Assistance) traction control system
($500) is available as part of an $850 weather package that also includes
heated seats and a pair of headlamp washer/wipers.
The model we tested was fully loaded with most options contained in three packages (Sports Plus, Sunroof and Weather), which added about $5,000 to the base price. In reality, most of these items are superfluous to the car's performance and character unless you crave leather seats, a premium sound system and sunroof. Several dealer-installed accessories, such as a dog guard and cargo mats, are also available.
VVVolvo S40 Race
Version 
General 
Make Volvo
Model S40 Race Version
Chassis
Standard Volvo S40 shell with reinforced TWR-designed safety roll cage and driver side-impact system.
Engine
Configuration Inline 5
Valvetrain 4 valves / cylinder
Displacement 1999 cc / 122.0 cu in
Power 223.8 Kw / 300.0 bhp @ 8500 rpm
Bore 83.0 mm / 3.3 in
Stroke 73.9 mm / 2.9 in
Transmission
Designed and developed by TWR and Xtrac. Six-Speed, sequential shift - push to change down, pull to change up.
Suspension
Front TWR Low Friction McPherson strut with coil springs. Ohlins three-way adjustable dampers. Fixed anti-roll bar. Rear Multi-link suspension system, with coil springs over Ohlins three-way adjustable dampers. Driver-adjustable roll bar.
Brakes
Front Brembo eight-piston calipers with carbon metallic pads. Brembo 355mm dia x 32mm wide ventilated discs. Rear Brembo four-piston calipers with Endless pads, Brembo 278mm dia x 16mm wide ventilated discs.
Cooling
Twin front-mounted water radiators ducted to sides. TWR oil/water heat exchanger.
Fuel System
40-litre FT 3-specification rubber fuel cell.
Wheels and Tires
BBS forged magnesium alloy racing wheels (19-inch diameter x 8.2-inch wide), mounted with Michelin racing tyres - six slicks allowed per race and 16 grooved.
Bodywork
TWR-designed and developed aerodynamic package includes front spoiler and single-element, centrally-mounted rear wing.
Additional Features
On-board AP pneumatic jacking system 16-channel Cranfield cardcorder on-board data-acquisition system Driver to pit Kenwood radio system.
Review 2004 Volvo S40 2.4I
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THE AUTO PAGE
By
JOHN HEILIG
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL: Volvo S40 2.4I, 5T
ENGINE (2.4I): inline 5-cylinder; (5T): turbocharged inline 5-cylinder
HORSEPOWER/TORQUE (2.4I): 168 hp @ 6,000 rpm/166 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
HORSEPOWER/TORQUE (5T): 218 hp @ 5,000 rpm/236 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,800 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 5/6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic
WHEELBASE: 103.9 in.
LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT: 175.9 x 69.7 x 57.2 in.
STICKER PRICE: $24,000-$30,000 (est.)
To say I was impressed by the cool all-new Volvo S40 sedan is an understatement. The compact four-seater shares many components with the Mazda3, for example, although the two are built in different parts of the world. But other than some Ford family similarities, the two cars are different.
Volvo is touting the "cool all-new S40" as a way to attract a younger, more diverse audience. It is slated to compete with, among others, the Audi A4, VW Passat and Jetta, and the Acura TSX. Pricing ranges from around $24,000 to close to $30,000.
It just so happens that days before I drove the S40 I had a long trip in a TSX. The engines were of a similar size, 2.4 liters, and both had manual transmissions. But the Acura was a four and the Volvo a five-cylinder.
Maybe it was the inherent smoothness of a five-cylinder over a four, but the S40 had smoothness and quietness down pat. In the Acura there was considerable engine and wind noise; in the Volvo there was essentially none.
Two engines are available in the S40, and we had the opportunity to drive both with manual transmissions. We first drove the naturally aspirated 2.4i, with a 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine transversely mounted and driving the front wheels. This engine delivers 168 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 166 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm.
The T5 features a light turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that delivers 218 hp at 5,000 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,500 and 4,800 rpm. I know this will sound strange coming from power-hungry me, but I liked both engines equally. Low-pressure turbocharging eliminates many of the problems associated with "normal" turbocharging, such as torque steer, etc., so the ride is much better. But even 168 horsepower is enough for a vehicle that weighs between 3,100 and 3,300 pounds.
At introduction, the S40 will be offered with an automatic transmission, with the manual available as a no-cost option. All-wheel drive will be available "later" on the T5.
The present generation S40 has a 170 hp 1.9-liter turbocharged four.
The Volvo and Acura are two cars that should be equal, but I felt the Volvo was the superior vehicle. The five-speed was easier to use (probably more my problem than the car's), although a six-speed is available in the turbocharged version.
I felt the Volvo handled better, as well. We drove both over a combination of Interstates and winding roads. The Volvo's roads were more challenging because they encompassed some of my favorite roads in the world, the canyons north of Los Angeles. The Acura took us over more familiar terrain down to Virginia, and the roads I generally use on that trek are less challenging.
We were able to throw the S40 around some tight, fast corners with full confidence that we were going to come out the other side in one piece. The front suspension is swing-strut, with a lower link and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension is multilink with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. It was stiff, in the way many European cars are stiff, but not too intrusive to allow for a comfortable ride.
I guess I should say something about the seats. They were thickly upholstered and held us in, no matter how hard the driver drove. And, being a Volvo, the S40 inspired confidence. Oddly, Volvo almost apologized because the seats were slightly thinner and narrower than the current-generation S40.
Of course, when you look at an S40, you immediately know it's a Volvo. There is the signature grille, of course, and the taillight lenses look as if they were lifted off an S80, with their prominent "shoulders." There's also a strong familiar character line that runs from the taillights forward to the front fenders. The grille-headlight area has a decided "V" shape to it.
In profile, the S40 retains some of the C60 coupe lines, but translated into a compact sedan. Volvo design has been transformed over the past few years, such that the old S40 looks stodgy and square.
Volvo said they wanted to keep the Volvo design language, but also make a car that's more youthful and exciting. Maybe that's why they chose 32-year-old Al Briscoe's design over two others.
Dimensionally, the new S40 has a wheelbase 3.1 inches longer than the car it replaces, is two inches shorter, two inches wider and 1.5 inches taller. It was designed for the American market.
Dominating the interior is a center stack that has a great deal of personality in its own right. It is designed to look a lot like a combination between a television remote and a portable phone. It has a keypad, but it also has normal volume and tuning controls for the radio, and a slot for the CD, and controls for the HVAC system. It can be configured to different design forms (plastic, wood, aluminum, etc.) to conform to the owner's choice. It's part of the philosophy that the car should be "customizable" to a certain extent.
Volvo's going to make a lot of friends with the "cool all-new S40." This is a solid vehicle at a decent price point that should make the competition start looking at what they're offering and start thinking how they can catch up.
Ain't it great to be a consumer some times?
(c) 2004 The Auto Page Syndicate
The new Volvo S40:
Safety, dynamic driving wrapped stunningly together
By Michael Binstock
Acorn Motoring Editor
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A few years ago, Volvo stunned the North American auto market when it finally introduced the S and V40. This stunning looking car, a joint project with another major auto manufacturer, had only been available overseas and it even had its own racing series.
But time moves on and now it's time to introduce its worthy successor. To be shown for the first time at the Frankfurt Auto Show later this month, the new Volvo S40 has class-leading safety and dynamic driving wrapped into a stunning design.
The new Volvo S40 has a revolutionary interior design while its power comes from a five-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed transmission with all-wheel drive.
The Volvo S40 is the first new model from Volvo following the success of the Volvo XC90, the SUV that redefined that market.
The new Volvo S40 replaces the current S40, which was launched in Europe in 1995. It's the newest addition to Volvo's S-range, which also includes the larger Volvo S60 and S80 models.
From the outside, the new S40 is unmistakably Volvo, a modern evolution of the extraordinary design look that began with the S80 luxury sedan.
The interior is a revolution, with an ultra-slim center console-the first of its kind in the automotive world-creating an aura of exclusivity, simplicity and space. "The center console is a design icon for the new Volvo S40," says Henrik Otto, design director at Volvo cars. "We intend to pursue our position as inaugurators in the car design world, not looking at what our competitors are doing. It is therefore far more valuable to keep an eye on what they're not doing."
In the new Volvo S40, Volvo continues its groundbreaking use of high-tensile steel. In the new front structure, four different grades of steel are used in an intelligent design to provide maximum safety for occupants. "Naturally, our goal is that the new Volvo S40 should be the safest car in its class," says Hans-Olov Olsson, president and CEO of Volvo cars.
Side impact protection is addressed by extremely rigid cross members that form a three-way attachment between the leading edge of the A-pillar and the base of the B-pillar. Similar cross members are found in the rear doors as well.
This system of energy absorption, along with the new slim-design five-cylinder engines represents a new approach to vehicle safety.
The new Volvo S40 five-cylinder engines feature a normally aspirated unit that produces 170-horsepower and a 220-horsepower high-pressure turbocharged engine found in the T5. Those who crave an even more dynamic driving experience can equip a T5 with Volvo's new six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox and electronically controlled all-wheel drive.
Production gets under way in a few weeks. In 2003, the new Volvo S40 will only be sold in Sweden, reaching markets in the rest of the world in early to mid-2004. Volvo expects 2004 sales of the new S40 to reach 70,000 cars. Annual sales for the U.S. market, the largest single market for the S40, are targeted at 28,000.
The first car to
emerge from the NedCar plant in Born was a Mitsubishi. However, Volvo
introduced its S40 and V40 in 1995. These were rugged, yet attractive
medium-class models which quickly achieved success in several countries.
Following a dispute with Audi over designations, Volvo introduced a new system
of naming its cars, the Dutch products being the first examples. In the new
system, 'S' stands for 'Saloon' (or '
BTCC activities continued in 1995, now with the Volvo 850
2000-03 Volvo S40/V40
2000 Volvo
S40 more pictures Pricing Overview
$9,500-11,300
$11,600-13,700
$13,900-15,900
$16,800-19,800
Class
near-luxury car
Powertrain Layout
transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Built In
The
Printer Friendly Report
2000-03 Volvo S40/V40 Report
In the Full Review
Highlights
Year-to-Year Changes
Evaluation
Value for the Money
Road Test Ratings
Specifications
Safety Ratings
Trouble Spots
Avg Repair Costs
Recalls
Prices
Other S40/V40 Reviews
2005 S40 and V50 (new)
2004 40 series (new)
2003 40 series (new)
More Volvo Reviews
Used Volvo Reviews
For
Ride, Steering/handling, Brake performance
Against
Rear-seat room
More S40/V40 Pics
Highlights
Volvo introduced a pair of Dutch-built, front-drive compacts for 2000, to join
its larger models. With both the S40 sedan and its V40 wagon companion, they
wanted to attract younger buyers than the Swedish automaker's traditional
customers. Rivals included the Acura TL, Audi A4, Infiniti I30, and Lexus ES
300.
With a 100.4-inch wheelbase, the sedan and wagon ranked among the smallest cars in the near-luxury segment. They were also among the least expensive.
Under the hood, a 160-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine worked with a four-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety features included side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc antilock braking, and front-seat head restraints that were designed to minimize whiplash injury in a collision.
Sedans had a trunk pass-through in the back seat. Wagons had a standard split folding rear seat. Heated front seats were available in an optional Cold Weather package. Other options included traction control, leather upholstery, a power moonroof, and integrated rear child-booster seats.
Year-to-Year Changes
2001 Volvo S40/V40: After only one year on the market, the S40
sedan and V40 wagon got a thorough makeover, including freshened styling and
slightly more engine power. The four-cylinder engine was now rated at 165
horsepower. A new five-speed automatic transmission replaced the initial
four-speed unit. In addition to extending the wheelbase by half an inch, Volvo
designers subtly reshaped the fenders, reworked the front bumper with an
integrated spoiler, and modified the front suspension. Recontoured seats went
up front, along with upgraded trim and rear child-seat anchors. Power window
and mirror switches moved from the console to the driver's door. Optional
heated seats now had two warmth levels. Standard curtain side airbags were
installed. A new sensor system could trigger the dashboard airbags to deploy
with full or reduced force, according to crash severity and whether occupants
were buckled up.
2002 Volvo S40/V40: Except for a new in-trunk emergency release and twin cupholders, front and rear, little was new for 2002 in the slow-selling S40 sedan and V40 wagon. An optional Sport Package featured leather upholstery, a spoiler, fog lights, and custom interior trim, but included no engine or suspension modifications.
2003 Volvo S40/V40: Volvo's slow-selling S40 sedan and V40 wagon got more horsepower--180 instead of 170. CD/cassette player was made standard and gauges were revised.
Road Test Evaluation
Most class rivals have V6 engines and are a bit quicker and more refined than
the S40/V40. Still, the turbo four provides brisk takeoffs and good midrange
punch. Little turbo-related throttle lag is evident at higher speeds. A V40
wagon accelerated to 60 mph in just 8.3 seconds. Downshifts from the four-speed
automatic transmission are generally prompt, but expect some hesitation in
full-throttle kickdowns from midrange speeds and a little jerkiness in some
part-throttle shifts. Early test cars averaged 21 mpg in performance testing,
which is fair for their weight and power. Premium fuel is required.
Despite a relatively short wheelbase, the ride is supple and comfortable. Sharp bumps do register, but the suspension copes well with large ruts and humps--albeit with occasional floatiness. Handling and roadholding are good. Even the wagon corners with predictable grip and moderate body lean. Precise steering and powerful brakes also enhance confidence, but the wagon's tail tends to drift slightly in simulated panic stops. Road and wind noise are well managed. The engine is quiet in top-gear cruising, but hard acceleration induces exhaust boom and intake growl.
Seating is comfortably supportive, with ample space forward.
Rear leg and foot room are almost subcompact-class and head room is tight for
those over 5-foot-7. Moving front seats more than halfway aft inhibits
entry/exit, as do narrowish rear doors. Visibility is slightly hindered by rear
headrests. Gauges are clear and controls handy. The sedan's roomy trunk has
usefully low liftover, but the small opening may prevent loading of bulky objects.
The wagon's load deck is fairly wide but not that long, and its cargo cover is
too short.
Value for the Money
While delivering a generally solid driving feel, the S40/V40 do not have the
same quality of interior materials or detailed workmanship as Swedish-built
Volvos. Fully equipped models get a bit pricey, impairing overall value. An
Acura TL or Infiniti I30/I35 is roomier, quicker, and more refined.
Each vehicle report contains one rating table for a representative
model. We rate in seven key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort,
Interior Noise, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These
ratings are given taking into account the "world" of vehicles, not a
vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1"
is the lowest rating and "5" is the highest rating.
Consumer
2001 Volvo S40
Ratings
Performance
Fuel Economy
Ride Quality
Quietness
Interior Room
Cargo Capacity
Insurance Costs
Total
Specifications
Volvo S40/V40 4-door sedan
Volvo S40/V40 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in.
Overall Length, in.
Overall Width, in.
Overall Height, in.
Curb Weight, lbs.
Cargo Volume, cu. ft.
Standard Payload, lbs.
Fuel Capacity, gals.
Seating Capacity
Front Head Room, in.
Max. Front Leg Room, in.
Rear Head Room, in.
Min. Rear Leg Room, in.
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Powertrain Options and Availability
In their first season, the S40 sedan and V40 wagon had a
turbocharged dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine that produced 160
horsepower, driving a four-speed automatic transmission. Engine output rose to
165 horsepower in 2001, when a five-speed automatic transmission replaced the
four-speed unit. Power was up again in '03, this time to 170 horsepower.
Engines
Size liters/
cu. in.
Horsepower
Torque
EPA city/hgwy
Consumer Guide Observed
Turbocharged dohc I4
4-speed automatic: 22/32
5-speed automatic: 22/32
4-speed automatic: 21.6
5-speed automatic: --
Notes: Engine Key: ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; H = horizontally opposed cylinders; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Trouble Spots lists the many commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Trouble Spots
Exhaust system: The exhaust-manifold nuts may become loose and dealers should replace all nuts with new ones having captive washers. (2000-01)
Oil consumption: The screen in the oil filler can get loose inside the filler neck and often would've been replaced when the vehicle was in for other services. (2000)
Seat: The seat-adjustment mechanism squeaks if not periodically lubricated. (2001)
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Average Replacement Cost
A/C Compressor
Alternator
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle
Brakes
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing
Constant Velocity Joints
Exhaust System
Radiator
Shocks and/or Struts
Timing Chain or Belt
NHTSA Recall History
Water may be able to enter the brake vacuum pump, possibly causing a loss of stopping ability. Dealers will inspect and replace all affected parts. A diode in the electronic climate-control system may have a reduced service life. If it fails, the heater fan stops running, affecting the defroster.
Just a year after they arrived here, the compact Volvo S40 sedan and V40 wagon get more of what made them an instant hit in America: refinement, safety and value. From subtle changes in appearance (new front fenders, bumpers, tail lights and wheels) to enhancements to ride and handling (slightly wider track and longer wheelbase with re-calibrated front suspension) and a satisfying quality feel to the interior, the stylish sedan and versatile wagon build on their first year reputation for offering Volvo virtues at an affordable price.
A marriage of practical and emotional, the S40 and V40 make it clear that versatility and fun-to-drive can happily co-exist in the same car. A new 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission showcases the refinements to the standard 1.9-liter engine with low pressure turbo to keep the fun levels high. Standard 4-channel anti-lock brakes, 15-inch alloy wheels and truly impressive available audio systems are just part of a long list of high-value standard features that are remarkable in a model line that starts at $23,500.
The S40 and V40 debuted with a best-in-class list of standard safety features, including SIPS side impact protection air bags and WHIPS whiplash protection seats. The addition of the Volvo-pioneered Inflatable Curtain side impact protection, ISO-FIX child safety seat attachments and 'smart' dual-stage front airbags as standard equipment promote S40 and V40 to a class of their own.
"With the S40 and V40, we've filled a gap in our product line-up. Both vehicles give us new buyers who have a Volvo desire but were too young to afford one. We now can capture buyers much earlier in their vehicle purchasing cycle, with a less expensive offering, and one that embraces traditional Volvo values of safety engineering, quality, and concern for our environment, and, of course is fun-to-drive," comments Volvo Cars of North America CEO and President, Mark LaNeve.
S40 and V40 Buyers
Entry level buyers who are young (30-38), single and with income around $60,000. Predominantly not married, or married without children as well as retired empty nesters. There is not much difference between S40 and V40 buyers. Both are well educated with an orientation towards friends and are family-centric. They perceive the V40 as a sedan with a long roof and not as a traditional wagon vehicle.
Competitive Group
S40: Acura Integra, Audi A4 sedan, Infinity G20, Subaru Legacy, and VW Passat.
V40: Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, Audi A4 Avant, Subaru Legacy, and VW Passat.
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