2008 Volvo S40: Road Test
Archived Review
2008 Volvo S40 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $24,365 -$30,365
- Invoice: $22,903 -$28,543
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Volvo 40/50 series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2008 Volvo S40 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Volvo S40 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Volvo S40, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Volvo S40 help you decide if a 2008 Volvo S40 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 6.5 |
Volvo says the S40 2.4i does 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds with manual transmission, 8.4 with automatic. That sounds adequate, but in practice, acceleration is unimpressive, even with the manual, especially up long grades. T5s are snappier and suffer little irksome turbo lag. A manual-transmission T5 did 6.9 seconds 0-60 mph in our test. Manual shift action is slick and precise. The automatic is generally smooth and responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, front-drive T5s averaged 20.6 mpg. No opportunity to measure with 2.4i or T5 AWD models. All S40 models use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5.5 |
All models are firm, but the base suspension is reasonably compliant on most surfaces. The tauter sport suspension, included with AWD models and the optional Sport Package, reacts sharply to bumps. It makes for an uncomfortably stiff ride in concert with the low-profile 17-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.3 |
S40 is assured and predictable, but not quite sport-sedan agile. Steering feel is accurate, but some testers find it too light for best highway-speed control. The brakes ease speed quickly with fine stability and moderate nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.1 |
These 5-cylinder engines lack 6-cylinder smoothness. They suffer intrusive high-rpm thrum, but are OK otherwise. Wind noise is modest. There's little road ruckus from 16-inch tires except on very coarse pavement; 17s rumble on all but the smoothest surfaces.
CONTROLS
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
S40's ultrathin center stack houses audio and climate buttons that some testers say take time to sort out and are too easily hit by accident while shifting. The windshield-wiper stalk impedes access to the dashboard-mounted ignition switch.
DETAILS
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
The cabin has a minimalist design, high-quality materials, and solid workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
The interior is not that wide but furnishes adult-size headroom and legroom on supportive, well-shaped seats. A standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel and available power seat let most drivers get comfortable. Visibility is good except to the right-rear, where head rests and high deck partly interfere.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Two adults get decent head and elbow space, but three will feel pinched. Knee space is tight if the front seats are set far aft, but foot space is generous. The seat is short on thigh support. Narrow door thresholds impede entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.3 |
Good trunk space for a compact sedan is abetted by standard folding rear seatbacks. Volume is meager by absolute standards and S40's small aperture won't accept bulky cargo. Interior storage is subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 6.2 |
S40 may be a bit pricey and not quite sporty enough for the younger buyers Volvo covets. On the other hand, this is a solid, capable premium compact that appeals for its big-Volvo style, solid workmanship, and safety features, plus available all-wheel drive. Just avoid the optional sport suspension/17-inch-tire combination, which compromises ride comfort and does little for roadability.
Total Score
| 2.4i, manual | T5 w/Sport Package | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | 59 | 65.3 |
Total Score: 60
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Buying a
Used Car?
Used Car?
Start your research
with a CARFAX® Report
with a CARFAX® Report
No VIN Available?
Order a CARFAX®
Report Package
Report Package
