Overview
The Volvo S40, specifically the second generation produced between 2004 and 2012, represented a significant departure from its predecessor. Built on the Volvo P1 platform—a architecture shared with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus—the S40 was developed to offer a more compact, agile, and premium experience. Manufactured in Ghent, Belgium, this generation moved away from the boxy aesthetic of older Volvos, adopting the “New Volvo” design language characterized by a V-shaped hood, rounded contours, and a distinct “floating” center console.
The AWD variant, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, served as the performance-oriented choice within the lineup. By utilizing a Haldex all-wheel-drive system, the S40 AWD provided enhanced traction and stability, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Audi A4 Quattro and the BMW 3 Series. The interior focused on Scandinavian minimalism, prioritizing ergonomic seat design and high-quality materials. Throughout its production run, the S40 maintained a reputation for structural integrity and safety, consistent with the brand’s long-standing focus on occupant protection.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 AWD |
| Model Year | 2005-2008 |
| Generation | 2nd Generation (P1) |
| Trim | T5 AWD |
| Body Style | 4-door Sedan |
| Vehicle Segment | Entry-level Luxury |
| Vehicle Class | Compact Cars |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | Volvo P1 |
| Assembly Plant | Ghent, Belgium |
| Country of Origin | Belgium |
| Production Start | 2004 |
| Production End | 2012 |
| VIN Identifier | YV1 |
| Base MSRP | $29,000 |
| Destination Charge | $745 |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Engine Family | Volvo Modular Engine |
| Engine Name | B5254T3 |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-5 |
| Displacement | 2.5 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 mm x 93.2 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 | 6.1 qts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Horsepower | 218 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft @ 1500-4800 rpm |
| Redline | 6500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Manual 6-spd |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 91 |
| EPA City MPG | 18 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 26 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 21 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 15.9 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 334 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | – |
| CO₂ Emissions | – |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | – |
| Smog Rating | – |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | – |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 seconds |
| 0-100 mph | – |
| Quarter Mile | 15.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 128 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.82g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | – |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 175.8 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 69.7 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 57.2 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 103.9 |
| Front Track (in) | 60.5 |
| Rear Track (in) | 60.5 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 5.3 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3380 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4300 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 91.0 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 12.6 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | – |
| 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 | Top Safety Pick |
| Small Overlap Front | – |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Headlights Rating | – |
| Front Crash Prevention | – |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | – |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog |
| Apple CarPlay | No |
| Android Auto | No |
| Navigation System | Optional |
| Audio System | Premium Sound System |
| Speaker Count | 8 |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 12 years / unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Skövde, Sweden |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Haldex AWD |
| Cooling System Capacity | – |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The S40 AWD is widely regarded as a compelling entry-level luxury sedan for enthusiasts who prioritize safety and all-weather capability over cutting-edge technology. Reliability is generally solid, though owners should monitor the PCV system, turbocharger hoses, and the Haldex AWD pump, which can fail if the fluid is not serviced at regular intervals. The interior, while stylish, is prone to wear on the center console buttons and door panel trim. In the used market, these vehicles offer significant value for those seeking a robust, turbocharged five-cylinder engine, provided the previous owner adhered to a strict maintenance schedule. Its distinct design and balanced handling continue to attract buyers looking for a practical daily driver with a unique character.
