2010 Volvo S40

The 2010 Volvo S40 is a compact luxury car with four doors and five seats. It’s for drivers seeking a small premium car with stylish accommodations and available all-wheel drive (AWD).

S40 buyers can choose from two engines. The standard powertrain is a 2.4-liter inline-5-cylinder generating 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. For more potency, you can step up to a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5. It produces 227 horsepower and has a torque rating of 236 pound-feet. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, with a 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual also available. The standard setup is front-wheel drive (FWD), but you can upgrade to all-wheel drive (AWD).

AWD, which improves traction on roads slick with rain or snow, is excellent for drivers who frequently travel in inclement weather. It’s not common on small sedans, but it’s available on the S40. The S40 also impresses with its comfortable front seats, which provide soothing support during long and short commutes.

This Volvo delivers lively acceleration – so long as you choose the optional engine. It’s also available with desirable safety features, like blind spot warning.

Before making this Volvo your daily driver, there are also a couple of drawbacks to consider: The base engine is weak, and rivals in its class have sportier handling.

 Volvo S40 Changes for 2010

• 5-speed manual transmission returns to lineup.

• Updated head restraints.

Where the S40 Sits in the 2010 Volvo Lineup

The Volvo product range features premium vehicles known for their impressive safety technology. The car lineup also includes the C30, S60, C70, S80, V50, V70, and XC70. The S40 is the brand’s small sedan.

2010 Volvo S40 vs. the Competition

Small luxury cars are deluxe, but they cost less than their midsize counterparts. The S40 competes with these rivals:

• Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Refined performance and a posh cabin.

• BMW 3 Series: Energetic handling and strong engines.

• Acura TSX: Plush interior and many standard features.

What’s the Best 2010 Volvo S40 Trim for You?

Which Trim Is the Best Value?

The base 2.4i trim offers good value. It has 17-inch wheels, fog lights, cruise control, automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an eight-speaker stereo.

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Best Trim for Fuel Economy

Every S40 with FWD earned an EPA rating of  24 mpg combined city/highway regardless of engine and transmission.

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Best Trim for Trunk Space

All S40 cars have 12.6 cubic feet of trunk space.

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Top-of-the-Line Trim

The T5 R-Design is the top trim. It has the upgraded engine, a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior and interior accents, and partial leather upholstery.

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Should I Buy an Older Volvo S40 Instead?

The 2010 S40 is part of the car’s second generation, which launched with the 2004 model. Any older car from this generation (2004-2009) will be broadly similar to the 2010 S40, and you can save money by purchasing one of these used cars.

You can find a used Volvo S40 with Carfax used car listings. Each used car comes with a free Carfax vehicle history report.

Research the S40 from other model years