2006 Volvo S40 2.4i Road Test

As I was taking pictures of the trunk, my pal Kristina decided that she would jump in to see if she could fit inside. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

From the outside the S40 doesn't appear to have much trunk room, however, open the lid and its quickly apparent that ample space for luggage is available. Just ask my gal pal Kristina. I was shooting photos one day and she decided she wanted to come along for the ride (who could blame her). As I was taking pictures of the trunk, she decided that she would jump in to see if she could fit inside. I know that sounds a little odd, but I frequently make jokes about trunk sizes in reference to "dead body capacity". Perhaps the HBO series "The Sopranos" is rubbing off on me, who knows? So she hopped in, curled up and fit quite comfortably, and how could I resist but to take a few pictures. Seriously, thought, the S40's cargo capacity 357 litres (12.6 cu ft), which is enough to fit all sorts of goodies and gear.

One thing that Volvo has taken great pride in is its reputation of building some of the safest vehicles on the road. Even though the base S40 startsat $31,120, none of the safety features are compromised. In fact, the Volvo Canada website shows Safety and Security features first and foremost. For instance, the S40 includes four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD), a side impact protection system (SIPS), SIPS front seat mounted side airbags,

The S40 is, dare I say, bold and beautiful. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

multi-stage front airbags with knee pads, pedestrian protection and a collapsible steering column just to name a few.

Whether it's off to the cabin or off to work, the Volvo S40 offers a fashionable interior, a sleek and stylish exterior, commendable safety features, a smooth ride, and a decent stereo system, not to forget ample cargo space. The S40 is, dare I say, bold and beautiful.



Specifications (2.4i):

Price Range (MSRP): $31,120 - $44,270
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, FWD
Engine: 168 hp, 170 lb-ft of torque, 2.4L, I-5
Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto with manual mode)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
Curb Weight (auto transmission): 1,398 - 1,418 kg (3,082 - 3,126 lbs)
Seating Capacity: 5
Cargo Volume: 357L (12.6 cu ft)
Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 13.2 / 6.6 L/100 km
Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300 Series, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Nissan Maxima, Saab 9-3, VW Passat
Web Site: www.volvocanada.com