Despite Volvo's 0-60 mph acceleration claim of 7.7 sec with the manual transmission and 8.4 with the automatic, S40 2.4i models are unimpressive when it comes to acceleration. At least the manual transmission has precise linkage, and the automatic shifts smoothly. T5s are snappier, showing little turbo lag (a delay in throttle response) in most conditions. An S40 T5 with manual transmission did 6.9 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Test S40 T5 models averaged 20.3 mpg with the manual transmission, 20.6 with the automatic. An AWD V50 T5 averaged 25.0 mpg with more highway use. We have not had an opportunity to measure with a 2.4i. Premium-grade fuel is recommended for all. Any S40 or V50 has a firm ride, even with the base suspension. But those versions are the most comfortable. The available sport suspension (which is standard on AWD models) makes for an uncomfortably stiff ride, especially when used in conjunction with the optional 17-inch tires. The tradeoff comes in the form of solid handling response. These premium compacts are assured and nimble, if not quite as tenacious as top sport sedans like the BMW 3-Series. S40 and V50's steering is accurate, but some of our testers find it to be overassisted. Braking is stable and secure. Standard 5-cyl engines in all S40s and V50s aren't as smooth as the six cylinders found in competitors' vehicles. But they're not overly loud. Wind noise is modest, as is tire noise on the standard 16s. The optional 17s rumble on all but the smoothest surfaces. Note that one test AWD V50 had an annoying drumming noise that came from the cargo area at highway speeds. Interior design is a bit of a mixed bag. The appearance is modern, with a unique ultrathin center stack for audio and climate controls. Some testers say, though, the layout takes acclamation. Materials quality is appropriate for the class. One test AWD V50 had a persistent squeak from the driver seat. Adults have sufficient head and leg room up front, and they sit on supportive seats. Standard tilt/telescope steering columns and available power driver seats help tailor a comfortable driving position. In back, there's decent space for two, though knees get cramped with the front seats more than halfway back. Visibility to good on all, except to the right rear in sedans, where the head restraints and high deck interfere. Cargo space is quite good for a compact vehicle, with wagons being very flexible haulers. Folding rear seats are standard on S40 and V50. Be wary of the wagon's liftgate as it doesn't raise above the roofline, making access complicated for taller users.

Value for the Money
They may be a little too pricey and not quite sporty enough to snare the young driving enthusiasts Volvo targets. But the S40 sedan and V50 wagon are solid, capable, and--without the optional sport suspension/17-inch-tire combination--comfortable cars that offer most big-Volvo features in compact packages. Availability of all-wheel drive strengthens the attraction.