Fortunately, practical function follows form from one end to the other of both the S40 and the V40. Unwilling to be the square block in the square hole, Volvo has decided to go the 'round' when it comes to radio controls. Sure, there is nothing new when it comes to round radio dials, but a rotating dial to access preset stations, rather than the normal push-button variety, is quite inventive. The audio system itself is excellent, featuring an in-dash CD and cassette player. The result is a more efficient use of dash space.
Even in heavy bumper-to-bumper traffic, you can rest assured that you won't be breathing in toxic exhaust fumes, as Volvo has equipped the 40 series with cabin air filtration. When things turn cold, turn on the defroster and the heated outside rear mirrors melt the ice as well.
Practicality continues with a multitude of handy storage compartments, tie-down hooks (in the wagon) and beefy cupholders. Loading cargo won't be a problem either, with 33.5 cu ft of storage area in the V70 and 13.2 cu ft in the S40 - ample for this class of car.
As practical as the new S40 and V40 are, they won't leave you wanting when you feel the need for speed. One hundred and sixty (160) horsepower (at 5100rpm) goes a long way in accelerating a light-weight car - 1,255 (S40) to 1,280 (V40) kg (2,767 - 2,822 lbs respectively). This is mostly due to the twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler strapped to the transversely mounted 1.9-liter, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine. Torque comes on low at 1800 rpm and puts out an impressive 170 lb ft. Although the power and torque ratings aren't as high as some of its competitors, keep in mind that the S40 weighs in at 500 lbs (227 kg) less than similarly sized rivals, including the BMW 3-series, Mercedes C-class and Lexus IS 300. Mated to the 1.9T is Volvo's smooth shifting 5-speed automatic transmission with winter shifting mode. As good as this transmission is, it's a shame a manual transmission is not available, as it would fit the performance oriented 40-series well. Failing that, at least Volvo's excellent sequentially shifting automatic would kick up some more excitement, but alas it is also not on the options list.
Even in heavy bumper-to-bumper traffic, you can rest assured that you won't be breathing in toxic exhaust fumes, as Volvo has equipped the 40 series with cabin air filtration. When things turn cold, turn on the defroster and the heated outside rear mirrors melt the ice as well.
Practicality continues with a multitude of handy storage compartments, tie-down hooks (in the wagon) and beefy cupholders. Loading cargo won't be a problem either, with 33.5 cu ft of storage area in the V70 and 13.2 cu ft in the S40 - ample for this class of car.
As practical as the new S40 and V40 are, they won't leave you wanting when you feel the need for speed. One hundred and sixty (160) horsepower (at 5100rpm) goes a long way in accelerating a light-weight car - 1,255 (S40) to 1,280 (V40) kg (2,767 - 2,822 lbs respectively). This is mostly due to the twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler strapped to the transversely mounted 1.9-liter, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine. Torque comes on low at 1800 rpm and puts out an impressive 170 lb ft. Although the power and torque ratings aren't as high as some of its competitors, keep in mind that the S40 weighs in at 500 lbs (227 kg) less than similarly sized rivals, including the BMW 3-series, Mercedes C-class and Lexus IS 300. Mated to the 1.9T is Volvo's smooth shifting 5-speed automatic transmission with winter shifting mode. As good as this transmission is, it's a shame a manual transmission is not available, as it would fit the performance oriented 40-series well. Failing that, at least Volvo's excellent sequentially shifting automatic would kick up some more excitement, but alas it is also not on the options list.