2003 Volvo 40 series Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2003 Volvo 40 series includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Volvo 40 series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Volvo 40 series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Volvo 40 series help you decide if a 2003 Volvo 40 series is right for you.

2003 Volvo 40 series Road Test

Pros	Cons

Ride	Rear-seat room

Steering/handling

Cargo room (wagon)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

S40	V40	Class Average
6	6	6.1

Test 2002 V40 took 7.8 sec 0-60 mph. Midrange punch is good, but turbo throttle lag is annoying. We haven't tested a 2003, but a 10-hp bump isn't likely to make much difference.

Fuel Economy

S40	V40	Class Average
5	5	5.1

Test S40 averaged 21.6 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. Volvo recommends premium fuel.

Ride Quality

S40	V40	Class Average
6	6	6.4

Comfortably supple despite a fairly short wheelbase. Sharp bumps do register, especially in the wagon, but the chassis copes well with large ruts and humps, though with occasional mild "float."

Steering/Handling/Braking

S40	V40	Class Average
6	6	7

Moderate body lean, grippy front-drive predictability in aggressive cornering. Precise steering, powerful brakes inspire confidence, but test V40 tended to wander in simulated panic stops.

Quietness

S40	V40	Class Average
5	5	6.1

Wind noise well managed, but bumps produce more thumping than expected. Engine relaxed in top-gear cruising, but exhaust boom, intake growl occur in full-throttle acceleration.

Controls

S40	V40	Class Average
6	6	6.4

Similar to larger Volvos, and just as clear and functional. Cabin materials and workmanship nothing special vs. near-luxury leaders.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

S40	V40	Class Average
5	5	6.1

Ample space on wide, supportive seats. Good basic driving stance with standard tilt steering wheel and available power seat.

Room/Comfort (rear)

S40	V40	Class Average
3	3	3.8

Almost subcompact-tight. Foot space and entry/exit hampered when front seats are set back. Narrowish doors should open wider, too.

Cargo Room

S40	V40	Class Average
3	7	4.1

Sedan's roomy trunk has usefully low liftover, but small opening thwarts bulky objects. Wagon cargo deck fairly wide but not long.

Value within Class

S40	V40	Class Average
2	2	4.8

The smallest Volvos have a nice array of standard safety features, and they ride and handle competently. But their uneven turbo power delivery and shortage of cabin space are serious shortcomings at these prices, which rise quickly with just a few options.

Total Score