Model Overview: 2007 Volvo S40
Model Overview: 2007 Volvo S40
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
S40 2.4i: $24,240
S40 T5: $28,390
S40 T5 AWD: $28,990
Destination: $695
The S40 brings the traditional Volvo virtues of style, class-leading safety and driving exhilaration to a growing following of young and young-at-heart customers. Most importantly, this premium compact sedan is highly attainable for those who might otherwise consider a lesser car.
For 2007, Volvo’s S-range continues to be offered in three versions: The value-leading S40 2.4i, the performance-oriented S40 T5 and the all-weather S40 T5 AWD. All models are now fitted with Volvo’s Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) as standard equipment. Other changes include further simplified package and option structure with new features such as auxiliary input and MP3 playback capability and Sirius Satellite Radio.
A choice of powertrains gives each S40 model a distinct character. A normally aspirated 5-cylinder engine that produces 168-horsepower motivates the S40. It can be mated to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission. Increasing the fun factor for the T5 is a 218-horsepower high-pressure turbocharged engine. Those who crave an even more dynamic driving experience may equip the electronically controlled all-wheel drive T5 AWD with Volvo’s 6-speed close-ratio manual gearbox.
The S40 provides confidence-inspiring performance with each powerplant. An extremely rigid platform affords levels of steering precision and suspension nimbleness found in the top vehicles in its class. Advanced braking, steering and chassis systems enable the S40 to feel secure in its capabilities across a broad spectrum of driving conditions.
On the outside, the S40 is unmistakably a Volvo, a modern evolution of an extraordinary design language. The interior is revolutionary, with an ultra-slim center console – the first of its kind in the automotive world – creating an aura of exclusivity, simplicity and space. “The center console is a design icon for the Volvo S40,” says Steve Mattin, Volvo Cars’ Design Director. “We try not to follow trends; it is best to be a trendsetter yourself. Good design will last well and still be seen as fresh years later. Design and quality go together – not just fit and finish, but also visual quality.”
In the S40, Volvo continues its groundbreaking use of high-tensile steel. In the front structure, four different grades of steel are used in an intelligent interplay to provide maximum safety for the car’s occupants. “Naturally, our goal is that the Volvo S40 should be the safest car in its class,” says Mattin.
Side impact protection is addressed by the use of extremely rigid cross members that form a 3-way attachment between the leading edge of the A-pillar and the base of the B-pillar. Similar cross members are found in the rear doors as well. This system of energy absorption, along with the slim-design 5-cylinder engines is called Volvo’s Intelligent Vehicle Architecture (VIVA), representing an innovative approach to vehicle safety design.