There is a newer version of this car
Read the latest Volvo S40 (04-12) review here
Volvo S40 Saloon (1996-2004) review
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At a glance
| Price new | £13,853 - £25,055 |
|---|---|
| Road tax cost | £210 - £415 |
| Insurance group | 17 - 34 |
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| Fuel economy | Not tested to latest standards |
| Range | 238 - 686 miles |
| View full specs for a specific version | |
Available fuel types
Petrol
Diesel
Alternative fuel
Pros & cons
PROS
Wide choice of specs, safe, refined, comfortable
CONS
Pricey and dated
Volvo S40 (96-04) rivals
Overview
The Volvo S40/V40 saloons and estates are often passed over because of their conservative looks and less than exciting drive. But they can be great used buys: comfortable, very safe, with a wide choice of specification. while its image may fall short of Audi A4, BMW 3-Series or VW Passat, S40/V40 makes a convincing case as a classier alternative to Vectra and Mondeo.
Some early cars were not quite up to scratch in terms of build quality, but improvements were soon made and the range is now a sensible secondhand buy.
Review contents
1
Overview Currently reading
2
Practicality & safety
3
Interior, tech & comfort
4
Engines & handling
5
Ownership cost
6