2009-2010 Volvo S40 FWD 2.5L

Overview

The second-generation Volvo S40, introduced for the 2004.5 model year, represented a significant departure from its predecessor. Built on the Ford P1 platform—a modular architecture shared with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus—the S40 moved away from the boxy, utilitarian aesthetic of 1990s Volvos toward a more fluid, Scandinavian design language. The 2009-2010 model years fall within the latter half of this generation’s lifecycle, characterized by refined styling, including a revised front fascia and updated interior trim options.

Positioned as a premium compact sedan, the S40 was engineered to compete with entry-level offerings from German manufacturers. The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine became the hallmark of the lineup, providing a distinct exhaust note and a torque-rich driving experience. By utilizing the P1 platform, Volvo achieved a balance of structural rigidity and nimble handling, while maintaining the brand’s reputation for occupant protection. Manufacturing took place primarily at the Ghent plant in Belgium, where the vehicle was assembled for global distribution.

The S40 targeted younger professionals and small families who prioritized safety and understated luxury over the aggressive styling trends of the era. Its interior featured the iconic “floating” center stack, a design element that became a signature of the Volvo brand during this period. While the S40 was eventually succeeded by the S60, it remains recognized for its role in modernizing Volvo’s compact sedan segment and establishing a high standard for safety technology in a smaller, more accessible package.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	S40 FWD
Model Year	2009-2010
Generation	P1 (2nd Gen)
Trim	2.5i
Body Style	4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact Executive
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Ford P1
Assembly Plant	Ghent, Belgium
Country of Origin	Belgium
Production Start	2004
Production End	2012
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	$27,600
Destination Charge	$850
Total MSRP	$28,450
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion
Engine Family	Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name	B5254T7
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 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	227 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque	236 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 6-spd
Final Drive Ratio	4.00:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	20
EPA Highway MPG	28
EPA Combined MPG	23
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	10.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	15.9
Estimated Driving Range	365 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,100
CO₂ Emissions	385 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	5
Smog Rating	6
Performance
0-30 mph	2.6 s
0-60 mph	6.7 s
0-100 mph	17.5 s
Quarter Mile	15.2 s
Top Speed	149 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	124 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.84 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.07 hp/lb
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)	3241
GVWR (lbs)	4300
Towing Capacity (lbs)	2000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1059
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	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
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	High Performance Sound
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	48 months / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	48 months / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	144 months / unlimited
Roadside Assistance	48 months / unlimited
Complimentary Maintenance	36 months / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.38, 2nd: 1.91, 3rd: 1.27, 4th: 0.95, 5th: 0.76, 6th: 0.63
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	7.4 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2009-2010 Volvo S40 is regarded in the used market as a solid entry-level luxury choice, favored for its distinct styling and robust safety features. Prospective buyers should prioritize models with documented service histories, as the turbocharged five-cylinder engine requires consistent oil changes to prevent sludge buildup and potential turbocharger failure. Common maintenance items include the PCV system, which can clog over time, and suspension bushings that may wear after high mileage. While the interior materials are durable, the electronics—specifically the climate control modules and infotainment components—can occasionally exhibit glitches. Despite these minor concerns, the S40 offers a unique driving character and a level of build quality that often exceeds its current market valuation, making it an attractive option for those seeking a safe, reliable, and characterful daily driver.