Overview
The 2009 Volvo S40 AWD represents the final years of the first-generation compact sedan’s lifecycle, built on the Ford P1 platform. Developed during Volvo’s ownership by Ford, the S40 shared its architecture with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus. This platform integration allowed Volvo to package a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and a turbocharged five-cylinder engine into a compact footprint, prioritizing safety and Scandinavian design sensibilities.
Positioned as an entry-level luxury sedan, the S40 was aimed at buyers seeking a balance between the agility of a smaller car and the premium features associated with the Volvo brand. The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission in this specific configuration, offered a distinct driving character compared to the more common automatic variants. Manufacturing took place primarily in Ghent, Belgium, where Volvo produced the S40 to meet global safety standards, including its signature “Intelligent Driver Information System” and a reinforced safety cage structure.
While the S40 was eventually succeeded by the V40 hatchback and later the S60, the 2009 model remains recognized for its minimalist interior, characterized by the “floating” center console and high-quality upholstery. Its legacy in the used market is defined by its unique blend of turbocharged power and all-weather capability, though it requires diligent maintenance of its complex drivetrain and electronic systems to remain reliable over high mileage.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 AWD |
| Model Year | 2009 |
| Generation | P1 (First Generation) |
| Trim | T5 AWD |
| 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 | $32,000 |
| Destination Charge | $850 |
| Total MSRP | $32,850 |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion Engine |
| 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 @ 1500-5000 rpm |
| Redline | 6500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Manual 6-spd |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 17 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 25 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 20 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 11.8 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 15.9 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 318 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $2,450 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 445 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 3 |
| Smog Rating | 5 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 2.6 s |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 s |
| 0-100 mph | 17.8 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 | 145 hp/ton |
| 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) | 3350 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4300 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 2000 |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 950 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 90.0 |
| 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 | Premium 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 | – |
| Differential Type | Haldex AWD |
| Cooling System Capacity | 8.5 Quarts |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2009 Volvo S40 AWD is regarded as a niche choice for enthusiasts who value the combination of a five-cylinder turbocharged engine and a manual gearbox in a compact package. While the vehicle offers excellent safety ratings and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, prospective buyers should be aware of common issues, including potential failures in the PCV system, premature wear of the Haldex all-wheel-drive pump, and electronic glitches related to the central electronic module (CEM). In the current used market, the S40 is often priced affordably, making it an attractive entry point into European luxury, provided the owner budgets for the specialized maintenance required by the Volvo modular engine and the complex AWD system.
