2009 Volvo S40: Road Test
2009 Volvo S40 ▼
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- MSRP: $28,550 - $33,800
- Invoice: $26,837 - $31,772
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Our road test for the 2009 Volvo S40 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Volvo S40 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Volvo S40, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Volvo S40 help you decide if a 2009 Volvo S40 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
No opportunity to test the 2.4i automatic. Volvo says the S40 2.4i does 8.4 seconds 0-60 mph with automatic transmission, and the T5 R-Design does it in 6.7 seconds--7 seconds with all-wheel drive. T5s are snappy and suffer little irksome turbo lag. The automatic is generally smooth and responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a front-drive T5 R-Design averaged 20.6 mpg. All S40 models use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.3 |
All models are firm, but the base suspension is reasonably compliant on most surfaces. The tauter sport suspension, included with T5 R-Design models, reacts sharply to bumps. It makes for an uncomfortably stiff ride in concert with the standard 17-inch tires. No opportunity to test with the available 18s.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.4 |
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
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
These 5-cylinder engines lack 6-cylinder smoothness. They suffer intrusive high-rpm thrum, but are OK otherwise. Wind noise is modest. 17-inch tires rumble on all but the smoothest surfaces.
CONTROLS
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 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
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.2 |
The cabin has a minimalist design, high-quality materials, and solid workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 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 the large head rests and high deck partly interfere.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.5 |
Two adults get decent headroom and elbowroom, 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
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4 |
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
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 5.7 |
S40 is 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, numerous safety features, and available all-wheel drive.
Total Score
| T5 R-Design | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 58 | 64 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
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