2009 Volvo S40: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Volvo S40 adds some new features and is no longer available with a manual transmission. This premium compact car comes as a 4-door sedan and as a wagon called the V50 (see separate report). Both share some elements of their basic design with the Mazda 3. S40s have a 5-cylinder engine and come in 2.4i and sporty T5 R-Design trims. The R-Design designation is new for 2009. T5 R-Designs have a different grille with an R-Design logo to go along with a sport body kit and other unique trim pieces. The 2.4i models have 168 hp and front-wheel drive. T5s are turbocharged, have 227 hp, and are available with front- or all-wheel drive. Both models have a 5-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A blind-spot monitoring system is optional. Also available are a navigation system with pop-up dashboard screen, leather upholstery, and heated seats. T5s come with a sport suspension. Satellite radio and a sunroof are now standard, as is a wireless cell phone link. 17-inch tires replace 16-inch tires as standard. 18-inch tires are available on T5 models.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX, Audi A3, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura TSX and Audi A4.