Overview
The 2010 Volvo S40 represents the final phase of the first-generation compact sedan’s lifecycle, which was built on the Ford P1 platform. Developed during Volvo’s ownership by Ford, the S40 shared its mechanical architecture with the Mazda3 and the European Ford Focus. This platform integration allowed Volvo to incorporate sophisticated safety structures and handling characteristics into a smaller footprint, positioning the S40 as a premium alternative to mainstream compact cars of the era.
The AWD variant, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, served as the performance-oriented choice within the lineup. By 2010, the S40 had established a reputation for its distinctive “floating” center console design and high-quality interior materials, which prioritized ergonomic comfort and minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics. While the model faced stiff competition from German rivals, it maintained a loyal following among buyers seeking a balance of all-weather capability and understated design.
Manufacturing for the North American market took place in Ghent, Belgium. The S40 was recognized for its robust safety engineering, including the Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS) and a comprehensive suite of airbags. As the model approached the end of its production run, it remained a staple for those who valued Volvo’s traditional focus on occupant protection and refined road manners over the aggressive styling trends common in the late 2000s.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 AWD |
| Model Year | 2010 |
| Generation | 1st (P1) |
| 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 | – |
| Base MSRP | $32,400 |
| Destination Charge | $850 |
| Total MSRP | $33,250 |
| 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-port 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 | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft @ 1500-5000 rpm |
| Redline | 6500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Manual 6-spd |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 20 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 27 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 22 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 10.7 L/100 km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 15.9 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 350 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $2,350 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 403 g/mi |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | – |
| Smog Rating | – |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | – |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 seconds |
| 0-100 mph | – |
| Quarter Mile | 15.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 149 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 124 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.84 g |
| 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) | 3,380 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,365 |
| 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 | High Performance Sound |
| 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 |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / Unlimited |
| 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 2010 Volvo S40 AWD is regarded as a reliable, albeit aging, entry-level luxury sedan that offers a distinct character compared to its Japanese and German counterparts. Owners often praise the supportive seats and the robust feel of the AWD system, which provides confidence in inclement weather. However, prospective buyers should be aware of common issues, including potential oil leaks from the oil filter housing, PCV system clogging, and wear on the suspension bushings. The electronic systems, while advanced for the time, can occasionally exhibit glitches as the vehicle ages. In the current used market, the S40 appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate the unique sound and power delivery of the five-cylinder engine and the safety-first philosophy of the brand, provided that the vehicle has a documented service history to ensure the turbocharger and Haldex AWD system have been properly maintained.
