2006 Volvo S40

Launched in 2005 and facelifted for 2008, the compact S40 sedan is based on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the Mazda 3 and the Ford Focus, all of which come under the Ford umbrella. Yet Volvo claims that the S40 is a true Volvo, asserting unique premium features only found in the Volvo. The S40 is an obviously small car, but it looks a lot like its larger siblings with its signature new-age-Volvo styling. There are three engine choices, all of them the corporate oddball five-cylinder, except for the base 1.6-litre four-cylinder with manual gearbox. The range includes a basic 2.4-litre, a higher-tuned 2.4-litre and a turbocharged 2.5-litre, all offered with automatic with tiptronic in this region. Markets outside this region get all-wheel-dive models too. The interior has an ultra-slim centre console that seems to be free-floating, with extra storage space behind it. The safety package includes a patented zonal front structure using differing strengths of high-strength... Read More