Volvo S40 T5

This is a very underestimated motor car.

In my younger years I spent time stage ralllying in Mini Cooper S's and DTV Vauxall Firenza's. In the personal sense though, this is by far the best car I have ever driven.

It is remeniscent of the early 80's Audi Quattro's on the rally scene, which also has lots of power and a distinctive exhaust note. I love it!

The Volvo S40 is a good all-rounder. Just used one of these for a couple of days. Very comfortable. Great driving position. Its got a bit of power, not lots but its delivered in a mature way. Very good build quality. Nice paint. Alloys. The particular one that I drove was bought for under 1000. Great value for a very safe car.

I just bought my Volvo after looking at the comments in reviewcentre. This is the best car I have ever driven. I had Civics, Accords, Focus, etc and this volvo beats in every detail. The best of the best.

I can't believe no one reviewed the Volvo S40 yet - just another example of what a hidden gem it is. Among the Mommy-mobiles of Volvo, I think the S40 is frequently forgotten about.

With it's turbo charged motor, the thing provides enough pep to make any drive fun. Would I try to race anyone with it? Well, no, but everyone who has attempted anyway (except a Mustang once) has lost. I think that's because only people with Civics seem to try though. With a manual transmission, it might be a little quicker off the line. It'd also be, ya know, more fun. Loss of points to Volvo for not bringing this option over to us.

Moving on, where this car truly excels is in its comfort and style. The heated leather seats are wonderful - even turned off. The wood trim is very sparse, which I feel is perfect ... elegant without being overdone. And the frame. Wow, the frame. From the moment you close the door, you can tell you're surrounded by strength, and knowledge provides an entirely different kind of comfort. The type of comfort the traction control strengthens in the winter.

If the level of physical comfort was any higher, I'd be afraid of falling asleep at the wheel - which would cut in to the pyschological comfort. If the pyschological comfort were any higher, I'd feel as if I wasn't even driving a car anymore. Really, the balance is perfect. I'm telling you, the S40 is what comfort is all about.

I love this car. Absolutely love it. The only reason I would consider selling it would be for a convertible - but not Volvo's. Though, that's a different story for a different review; as sedans go, this is the one for me.

PS: 40k miles on it, no problems.