2005 Volvo S40 T5 AWD

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
KEZW Radio
Denver

Vehicle Type: AWD Sports Sedan
Price AS Tested: $30,440

Pros:
Performance
Safety
Nimble Handling
Value

Cons:
I’m thinking...

Overview

The entry-level S40 is new from the ground up and represents a tremendous improvement over the old car in terms of safety, performance and styling. The last generation S40 was built in conjunction with Mitsubishi and just didn’t feel or drive much like a Volvo. The new car shares some of its architecture with the Mazda 3 and the next generation Ford Focus now on sale in Europe, but engines, suspension and interior components are unique to Volvo. There are 3 trim lines available, the base 2.4i, and the performance oriented T5 and T5 AWD. The wagon version is known as the V50 and it too comes in the same 3 trim lines.

Under The Hood

All S40’s feature a transversely mounted inline 5-cylinder. A naturally aspirated 2.4liter making 168 horsepower powers the front-wheel drive 2.4i. Choose between either a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. T5s are powered by a 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged intercooled engine making 218 hp and 236 lbs feet of torque. This smooth, responsive engine features continuously variable valve timing for increased fuel economy and performance. The T5 AWD manual I drove is listed as 19-mpg city and 27 out on the highway. This engine, mated to either a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual, provides spirited acceleration. 0-60 time is said to be 6.9 seconds with the stick. It seems even quicker. The car is a blast to drive.

On The Road

The S40 AWD has a firm but compliant ride with nimble handling. The ‘Electro-Hydraulic’ rack and pinion steering is speed-sensitive and has a precise feel. The ‘Dynamic Sport Suspension’ consists of independent front struts with a Multi-Link coil spring set-up in the rear. Anti-Roll bars front and rear keep the S40 planted to the pavement. Our S40 came optioned with 205/50 17” tires. 205/55/16” all season rubber is standard along with 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, electronic brake distribution and emergency brake assistance. Braking is excellent. The S40 test car I drove also had the optional stability and traction control. Do you feel sufficiently ‘controlled and stabilized’? It’s all part of Volvo’s tradition of safety.

On the Inside

The interior is nicely styled with a modern look. I liked the aluminum trim in our test car. Controls for the audio and climate control and housed in a vertical console. I like the way the blend controls are displayed in the center stack. Another option on this car is the $850.00 ‘Premium Sound System’ featuring a 6-disc CD player. Audio quality is excellent. Seating is comfortable for 4 adults. The driver’s seat is power. A Tilt and telescoping steering wheel allows for a comfortable driving position. Instrumentation is straight forward with two round analog dials for speed, tach, temp and fuel. Time and outside temp are displayed between the dials. Heated outside power mirrors are standard.

Safety

In addition to the features already noted (ABS etc) the S40 comes standard with side curtain head protection, side impact airbags along with dual stage driver and front passenger air bags. The front passenger airbag has weight sensitive multistage deployment for greater safety. It also has a whiplash protection system for front occupants. The unibody uses high strength steel and features an energy absorbing passenger safety cage. All of this helps the S40 achieve high crash test results with a perfect score of 5 in side impact and a 4 in rollover resistance. The Volvo tradition of safety continues with the S40.

Conclusion

This is one heck of a car. Lots of features, fun to drive, all-wheel drive, comfortable and economical. All wrapped up in a very attractive package with excellent build quality. The S40 T5 AWD is one of the best all around $30,000 cars on the market. Highly recommended.

Tom Collins
1/20/05
www.theautoanswerman.com