2003 Volvo S40 Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the Volvo S40:

Volvo's compact S40 packs all that traditional Swedish goodness, all that genuine Volvo obsession with safety, into a more manageable, more affordable package.

-- New Car Test Drive

The stereo has big buttons and controls for easy use, even while wearing gloves.

-- USA Today

Excellent road isolation.

-- AutoWeek

What reviewers liked least about the Volvo S40:

The S40 still could benefit from a larger optional engine.

-- Automobile

Exhibits more body roll than some other competitors.

-- Motor Trend

Characteristically odd Swedish ergonomics.

-- AutoWeek

Volvo S40 Comparisons:

Hard-core enthusiasts may prefer the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series.

-- Car and Driver

Handling of the S40 is merely acceptable. In this way the S40 is not in the same class as a BMW 3 Series.

-- New Car Test Drive

As so often happens with Volvos, the V40 wagon is more stylish than the S40 sedan.

-- USA Today

Best one-liner about the Volvo S40:

The pejoratives boxy and boring don't apply here.

-- Car and Driver

The official poster car of the Red Cross.

-- The Detroit News