Overview

The Volvo V40, introduced to the North American market for the 2001 model year, represented a strategic effort by Volvo to capture a younger demographic seeking a blend of safety, utility, and compact dimensions. Developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi, the V40 shared its platform and architecture with the S40 sedan and the Mitsubishi Carisma. Manufacturing took place at the NedCar facility in Born, Netherlands, a joint venture between Volvo and Mitsubishi at the time.

Positioned as a premium small station wagon, the V40 offered a distinct alternative to the larger, traditional Volvo wagons. It featured a 1.9-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which provided a balance of efficiency and power suitable for urban commuting and highway travel. The vehicle emphasized the brand’s core values, incorporating advanced safety features such as Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), which were notable for a vehicle in this segment during the early 2000s.

The V40 remained in the US lineup through the 2004 model year, after which it was phased out to make room for the next generation of Volvo compact vehicles. While it did not achieve the sales volume of its larger siblings, the V40 is recognized for its build quality and its role in diversifying the Volvo portfolio. Today, it is viewed as a practical, understated choice for those seeking a reliable European wagon with a focus on occupant protection.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volvo
Model V40
Model Year 2001-2004
Generation 1st Generation
Trim 1.9T
Body Style Station Wagon
Vehicle Segment Compact Executive
Vehicle Class Small Station Wagons
Market USA
Platform Volvo P1/Mitsubishi-Volvo Platform
Assembly Plant NedCar, Born, Netherlands
Country of Origin Netherlands
Production Start 2000
Production End 2004
VIN Identifier YV1
Base MSRP $24,000 – $26,000
Destination Charge $600
Total MSRP
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name B4194T / B4204T
Engine Code
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 1.9 Liters
Bore x Stroke 83 mm x 90 mm
Compression Ratio 9.0:1
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Multi-point fuel injection
Valve Train DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 6.0 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity 5W-30 / 10W-30
Horsepower 160 hp @ 5100 rpm
Torque 170 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
Redline 6000 rpm
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission Automatic 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91
EPA City MPG 19
EPA Highway MPG 28
EPA Combined MPG 22
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 10.7
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 15.8
Estimated Driving Range 400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost
CO₂ Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Score
Smog Rating
Performance
0-30 mph
0-60 mph 8.5 seconds
0-100 mph
Quarter Mile
Top Speed 130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 135 ft
Lateral Acceleration
Power-to-Weight Ratio
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 176.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 67.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)
Height (in) 55.7
Wheelbase (in) 100.8
Front Track (in) 57.5
Rear Track (in) 57.5
Ground Clearance (in)
Curb Weight (lbs) 2950
GVWR (lbs)
Towing Capacity (lbs)
Payload Capacity (lbs)
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 90
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 14.5
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) 45.0
Turning Circle 34.8 ft
Approach Angle
Departure Angle
Breakover Angle
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating
NHTSA Frontal Crash
NHTSA Side Crash
NHTSA Rollover
IIHS Award
Small Overlap Front
Moderate Overlap Front
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating
Front Crash Prevention
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display None
Instrument Cluster Analog
Apple CarPlay No
Android Auto No
Navigation System Optional
Audio System AM/FM/CD
Speaker Count 6
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 4 yr / 50,000 mi
Powertrain Warranty 4 yr / 50,000 mi
Corrosion Warranty 8 yr / unlimited
Roadside Assistance 4 yr / 50,000 mi
Complimentary Maintenance
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Skovde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier Aisin-Warner
Gear Ratios
Differential Type Open
Cooling System Capacity
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volvo V40 is generally regarded as a durable, if somewhat maintenance-intensive, used vehicle. Prospective buyers should prioritize models with documented service histories, as the turbocharged engine requires consistent oil changes to prevent sludge buildup and turbocharger failure. Common areas of concern include the electronic throttle module (ETM), suspension bushings, and cooling system components, which often require attention as the vehicle ages. Despite these potential maintenance requirements, the V40 remains an attractive option for enthusiasts of the brand who value its compact footprint, safety-focused engineering, and versatile cargo space. In the current market, it serves as an affordable entry point into European wagon ownership, provided the owner is prepared for the upkeep associated with a vehicle of this era.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *