2009-2011 Volvo S40 FWD 2.5L

Overview

The Volvo S40, produced between 2009 and 2011, represents the latter half of the second generation of the Swedish manufacturer’s compact executive sedan. Built on the Ford C1 platform—a collaborative effort shared with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus—the S40 was engineered to offer a distinct Scandinavian alternative to the dominant German compact sedans of the era. Its design language, characterized by the signature “floating” center console and a slim, minimalist dashboard, emphasized ergonomics and interior clarity over traditional luxury ornamentation.

Manufacturing for the North American market took place primarily in Ghent, Belgium. The vehicle was positioned as an entry-level luxury offering, targeting young professionals and small families who prioritized safety and understated design. The 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, a hallmark of Volvo’s engineering during this period, provided a unique acoustic signature and power delivery that distinguished it from the four-cylinder engines common in the segment. Throughout its production run, the S40 maintained a reputation for structural integrity, benefiting from Volvo’s long-standing focus on occupant protection and rigid chassis construction.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	S40 FWD
Model Year	2009-2011
Generation	2nd Generation (P1)
Trim	2.5i
Body Style	4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact Executive
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Ford C1
Assembly Plant	Ghent, Belgium
Country of Origin	Belgium
Production Start	2004
Production End	2012
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	$28,000
Destination Charge	$850
Total MSRP	$28,850
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name	B5254S
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-5
Displacement	2.5 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-port 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	168 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque	170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S5)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	20
EPA Highway MPG	29
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	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	3.2 seconds
0-60 mph	8.2 seconds
0-100 mph	22.5 seconds
Quarter Mile	16.3 seconds
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.05 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)	3,200
GVWR (lbs)	4,200
Towing Capacity (lbs)	2,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,000
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	8-Speaker High Performance
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	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

In the current used car market, the 2009-2011 Volvo S40 is recognized for its robust build quality and high safety standards, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a premium feel. Reliability is generally solid, though owners should monitor the cooling system, specifically the expansion tank and radiator hoses, as well as the PCV system, which can clog over time. The five-cylinder engine is known for longevity if the timing belt service intervals are strictly followed. While it lacks modern connectivity features like Bluetooth streaming or smartphone integration as standard, its comfortable seats and refined highway manners remain competitive. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, as deferred maintenance on the transmission and electrical sensors can lead to costly repairs.