2003 Volvo S40 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Notable changes continue in 2003 for Volvo's entry-level sedan. The engine is now more powerful, the interior and exterior have been...
Notable changes continue in 2003 for Volvo's entry-level sedan. The engine is now more powerful, the interior and exterior have been updated, and several new features are now available. The 2003 S40 features a restyled grille and color-keyed bumpers and moldings. Volvo has attempted to improve the aesthetics of the dash once again, but adding a three-spoke steering wheel and a revised instrument cluster.
The S40 continues with one trim level: the 1.9T. A CD player has been added to the list of standard features this year. Options packages have also been adjusted. The Sport Package now gets a front and rear spoiler, blackout headlights and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Premium Package adds a leather-wrapped hand brake handle and shifter.
The S40's 1.9 liter inline four-cylinder is now a bit more powerful, making 170 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The five-speed automatic continues to be the only transmission option, and fuel economy is estimated at 22/30 mpg.
Volvo's entry-level sedan has received steady praise for its comprehensive list of safety features and solid build quality. The controls are easy to use and well-placed, and the cabin's overall feel is consistent with the higher priced Volvo models. While the front seats are wide and inviting, many larger passengers will find the rear quarters rather tight.
The interior is shielded from most wind and road noise, but test drivers have reported the noticeable intrusion of engine sounds when the throttle is opened.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2003 Volvo S40 have mixed feelings about their experience. They appreciated the car's comfort, great acceleration, and fuel economy, especially with the low-pressure turbo engine. However, many pointed out issues with the handling, cabin noise, and a less solid feel compared to other Volvos. The stylish design and performance made it enjoyable for many drivers, though some felt it didn't match the classic Volvo standards."
Great, fast car. Has huge "ooooo, Cool Volvo" appeal! The interior is well designed and comfortable. I've been a big fan of how the windshield does not slope waayyy down the hood of the car like some of these newer 4-doors. The vantage point from the steering wheel of a S40 can only be topped by a Mercedes-Benz. Plus the 1.9T acceleration always surprises my passengers!
February 6, 2011The low pressure turbo engine is a marvel. 40 mpg is do-able but performance is up too. Is the sort of thing they've been doing to diesels to make them competive, and now VW are putting them on their petrol engines. Shame Volvo don't do it anymore. The car is based on a Mitsubishi Charisma and it's the Japanese bits that make it feel less solid than a 'proper' Volvo, at least it has the legendary Volvo seats. Good news on the 440 mile trip I regularily do. The first curvy Volvo at the time, but only time I feel good about the looks are from behind when I remember the hours I spent racing around Donnington in one on TOCA (PS1). FOR: Comfy, real world quick, huge boot, 109k miles and still reliable AGAINST: Dull handling, noisy cabin, needs brake upgrade
January 25, 2010Fun to drive, fun to look at. Especially with the sport appearence package that included the 17" rims, body kit, wing, and blacked out headlight bezels.
January 3, 2008What owners say
Great, fast car. Has huge "ooooo, Cool Volvo" appeal! The interior is well designed and comfortable. I've been a big fan of how the windshield does not slope waayyy down the hood of the car like some of these newer 4-doors. The vantage point from the steering wheel of a S40 can only be topped by a Mercedes-Benz. Plus the 1.9T acceleration always surprises my passengers!
February 6, 2011The low pressure turbo engine is a marvel. 40 mpg is do-able but performance is up too. Is the sort of thing they've been doing to diesels to make them competive, and now VW are putting them on their petrol engines. Shame Volvo don't do it anymore. The car is based on a Mitsubishi Charisma and it's the Japanese bits that make it feel less solid than a 'proper' Volvo, at least it has the legendary Volvo seats. Good news on the 440 mile trip I regularily do. The first curvy Volvo at the time, but only time I feel good about the looks are from behind when I remember the hours I spent racing around Donnington in one on TOCA (PS1). FOR: Comfy, real world quick, huge boot, 109k miles and still reliable AGAINST: Dull handling, noisy cabin, needs brake upgrade
January 25, 2010Fun to drive, fun to look at. Especially with the sport appearence package that included the 17" rims, body kit, wing, and blacked out headlight bezels.
January 3, 2008I bought this car new and now have 130,000 miles on it and all I have done so far is regular maintenance and brakes and rotors. It get 32 miles to the gallon.
April 14, 2008I had such one as company car, nice but the handling wasn't amazing. Also the comfort wasn't like the good old Volvo's (740, 940, etc.) or the new ones. But it was a model I sold very good because it wasn't very expensive.
January 8, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $24,585 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.9L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
