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2011 Volvo s40 Reviews

While safety-minded family shoppers often consider Volvo's larger sedans and crossover wagons, the S40 compact sedan isn't nearly as popular. The 2011 Volvo S40 is unremarkable from a styling standpoint, though it's even by today's fashion sense a well-sculpted small sport sedan. With the former base S40 2.4i models discontinued, as well as available all-wheel drive, only front-wheel-drive S40 T5 and T5 R-Design remain, both offering the higher-power 2.5-liter turbocharged in-line five-cylinder engine.

The 2011 Volvo S40 is a classy-looking car with a strong reputation for safety. It starts at $27,750, about $2,000 less than the BMW 1-Series.
Volvo redesigned the S40 in 2008. For 2011, Volvo simplified its trim, engine and transmission options; everything else remains the same.

The BMW 1-Series is one of the best drivers in the class. Starting at $29,150, the BMW 1-Series has two engine and transmission options that shoppers can select to fit their driving needs. The Volkswagen GTI is one of the least expensive cars in the class that offers a complete package: high performance, affordability, great fuel economy and a comfy interior. A diesel engine that enhances fuel economy is also available--The "2011 Volvo S40 "is available in two trims: T5 and R-Design.

For the 2011 Volvo S40, the base 2.4i model has been discontinued, as has the all-wheel-drive T5 R-Design. On the positive side, the Volvo S40 certainly looks the part of a European sport sedan. Similarly, the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G Sedan justify their higher costs through added performance and prestige.

The 2011 Volvo S40 Sedan is available in two trim levels: T5 and T5 R-Design--Adding the optional Preferred package will also get you a sunroof, leather upholstery and a power passenger seat.

Both trims are available with the Climate package, which adds heated front seats, headlight washers, automatic wipers and automatic climate control. Stand-alone options include 18-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, satellite radio, keyless ignition/entry, rear parking sensors and a blind-spot detection system paired with power-folding mirrors.

A standard five-speed automatic routes power to the front wheels -- all-wheel drive is no longer available. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg in combined driving.

Antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control are standard on all 2011 Volvo S40s. Also included are front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags, along with whiplash-reducing front head restraints. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the S40 was awarded the best rating of "Good" in the frontal-offset test and the second-best "Acceptable" rating in the side-impact test.