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It is almost unbelievable that the Volvo S40 is based on the same platform as the Ford Focus and the Mazda 3. The distinctive self-confident camel's nose that makes you think you are dealing with a big car when you look into your rear view mirror, might take account for that. What worked well for the Ford, works for the Volvo just as well. The chassis with the even stronger 240-horsepower engine becomes the Volvo S40.
Volvo has always been very committed to safety. A proof are the following standardised features: ABS with EBD, integrated child seats, whiplash protection system in the front seats and six airbags. Unfortunately, the B-post has gotten so thick, that one easily overlooks something when taking a look over one's shoulder during parking out or passing other cars.
The Volvo can definitely show off with its comfort: besides the excellent seats (however without adjustable head restraints), the tested Summum package offer is after all serially equipped with leather interior, CD-Radio, multi-function trip computer and speed limiter for 34.810 euros. On top of that the car has Xenon- and fog-lamps, headlamp washers, rain sensing windshield wipers and light metal rims.
Controlling the navigation system, which costs 2400 euros extra, from the steering wheel seems unusual at first but turns out to be very convenient. Bravo: Finally a navigation system producer has realised that it is nonsense to block the destination input while driving as this also blocks the co-driver as navigator.
The Volvo S40 in motion
Engine/Powertrain * * * *
We liked: Five-cylinder engine with a sporty but not too rackety sound.
We didn't like: A bit weak in the lower rpm range. The 170 hp gotta get teased out by revving up the engine and by changing gears swiftly.
Comfort * * * * *
We liked: Excellent seats up front and in the back (including a built-in child seat), smooth running gear shift, comfortable but not too soft setting.
We didn't like: Chassis tends to rumble in the back and front on a bad roadbed.
Driving Characteristics * * * * *
We liked: Brilliant characteristics because of the long wheel base. High feeling of safety when quickly changing direction or in narrow bends, absolutely suitable for long-range routes.
We didn't like: Servo-steering mechanism runs too easy at high speeds.
Room Capacities/Variability * * *
We liked: Satisfactory and very comfortable for two adults and two children.
We didn't like: The back row is not suitable for tall adults because of the low roofline. Too small tray area, cup holders are bad and the trunk volume (400 l) is not exhilarating.
Performance * * * *
Top speed: 215 km/h. Acceleration: from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. Fuel consumption during test drive: 10.5 liter on 100 km. Price (S40 2.4i Summum): 34810 Euros (in Austria, incl. taxes)
Data from the manufacturer
Engine
Five cylinders in line, 2435 ccm, 125 kW/170 PS at 6000/min, 230 Nm at 4400/min, four valves per cylinder58° V, two overhead camshafts, alloy engine block and alloy cylinder heads, crankshaft mounted on 6 bearings
Powertrain
on the front wheels, five gear manual transmission.
Chassis and Body
Self-supporting with a subframe, front: Mc-Pherson struts and wishbones, back: multi-link-axle with trailing links and multi-link-axles, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, sway bars at the front and back
Tyres, Brakes and Steering
Disc brakes at the front and back, ABS, ESP, handbrake operates on back wheels, power-assisted rack and pinion steering, fuel capacity 62 liters, wheels 195/65 R 15, 205/55 R 16, rims 6.5 J, 7 J
Dimensions and Weights
Wheel base: 2640 mm, length 4470 mm, width 1770 mm, height 1450 mm, min. weight 1400 kg, max. weight allowed 1850 kg, turning circle: 10.6 meters
Fuel Consumption
on 100 km (according to manufacturer): urban 12.4, extra-urban 6.6, mixed 8.5 liter. 91 Octane.
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