2001 Volvo S40

So you've always admired Volvo's reassuring track record for safety, longevity and conservatively European class. But you either didn't have the cabbage for a new one, you didn't want such a large car or it all felt way too family-oriented for one so fresh and cute like yourself. Enter the Volvo S40 to solve all your problems.
Designed as a compact and aimed at the "pre-family" segment, the S40 provides a new entry into the Volvo lineup, one that Volvo hopes will lure the young and restless until such a time when they're rich and responsible.

The Good News
I guess the best news is that you can now buy a Volvo for $24,000. Not only that, but you can buy a Volvo that suits your perky compact image.

The S40 offers plenty of Volvo-ness in terms of extra safety measures, solid construction, European design inside and out. Not only are dual-stage front and side airbags standard, side curtain bags for head protection are also now part of the package. All seatbelts are three-point. Outside, the S40 benefits from the Swedish carmaker's more streamlined, but still distinctive, looks. Although its styling comes off as conservative even by Volvo standards.

Inside, you'll find the usual lineup of luxuries befitting this class: heated leather seats and CD player (both optional), standard power seats, windows, mirrors, door locks, climate control, etc.

For 2001, the S40 gets a few more horses, countering criticisms that last year's was a tad pokey. It's powered by a 1.9 liter intercooled light-pressure turbo 4-cylinder engine with dual cam variable valve timing that still develops 160 horsepower at 5100 rpm. But it now manages 170 pound feet of torque all the way from 1800 to 4500 rpm.

The S40 also has a new five-speed automatic transmission this year, which I'm assuming takes better advantage of all the engine has to offer. I didn't drive the previous setup, but I can tell you this one comes off as competent, if not particularly spirited.

The Bad News
If the Volvo S40 intends to compete with the Audi A4 1.8T and BMW 3 Series, it has some catching up to do. It may be less expensive, but it is also less car in both sport and style. Neither its acceleration nor its handling compare with these European joy rides. That's not to say the S40's performance is without merit; it just doesn't register in the same quadrant on the happy meter.

I see this compact gaining more favor among would-be Japanese sedan buyers: People who want satisfying transportation might gravitate towards Volvo's safety, overall integrity and European roots.

Gas Mileage
EPA rated at 22 mpg city/32 highway

Price
Manufacturer's base, $23,500;
As tested, $27,225

Is it worth it?
The S40 is a good addition to Volvo's lineup for all the reasons I mentioned above. The problems of being somewhat underpaid and wanting/needing a compact sedan are no longer obstacles to owning a Volvo.

But it's not the European sport sedan to satisfy your urges for deserted, winding roads or terrorizing the neighborhood. If this is Volvo's answer to BMW and Audi, they misunderstood the question.

In other words, the S40 may solve your problems, but it doesn't necessarily solve Volvo's.