The Volvo 2011 S40 is one of the latest and firm commitments by Volvo to the safety and classed design of its cars, something special from Scandinavia. Since production for the S40 commenced in 1995, however, the 2011 model would mark one of the last years for the second generation; yet, it continued to prove a fashionable and practical alternative for those seeking an upscale compact sedan. The S40 is the automobile which sported sleek European designs in its approach, robust engineering and put at the forefront of comfort and safety features. It is a vehicle that will appeal to the driver who mirrors sophistication and security in both his daily commute and life.
The 2011 Volvo S40, visually is dominated by the clean minimalist lines and makes the vehicle a fashionable modern and timeless product. The front fascia is graced by the signature trapezoidal grille, which flanks the sleek and upward-slanting headlamps to give the car a sharp, forceful look. The S40 has a low, wide stance that makes it look extremely sporty, while subtle chrome accents along the grille and window frames inject a hint of luxury. On the rear, the vehicle has equally executed a clean design of the tail with bold taillights and smartly placed bumpers. The overall design is elegant and aerodynamic, which coaxes a sleek elegance but also contributes to the fuel efficiency.
Overview of the 2011 Volvo S40
The 2011 Volvo S40 is a compact sedan that’s available in two trim levels: base T5, and the sportier T5 R-Design. The S40 features a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine matched with a five-speed automatic transmission. This five-passenger sedan comprises Volvo’s characteristic safety features, premium materials, and sleek upscale interior design.
Other cars in the compact luxury sedan class include the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Acura TSX. Not as sporty or upscale as some of its German competitors, the S40 car finds a niche in line with the safety, reliability, and smooth ride the buyer seeks.
Engine and Performance
But at the heart of the 2011 Volvo S40 is a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder that puts out 227 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is the newcomer’s recommended engine choice, and it gives the S40 all the muscle to take this compact luxury car down from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds, relatively fast for its class. 2011 Volvo S40: Rearview Mirror The S40 comes only with front-wheel drive (FWD), and a five-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment.
A large highlight for the S40’s performance profile is its smooth, refined ride. On the downside, suspension is tuned into a comfort-oriented setup. It is, therefore, quite okay for daily driving and road trips, even long ones. The handling is composed and confident, but goes the way of comfort rather than a performance or sporty feel. Those who spend time behind the wheel will appreciate the well-injected steering and how easily the car rounds corners, though perhaps not as sharp as some competitors, including the BMW 3 Series.
The fuel economy is respectable for the class with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The 2011 Volvo S40 is a fuel-efficient choice, especially for those looking for luxury and economy in one driving experience.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2011 Volvo S40 breathes Scandinavian design simplicity and elegance. This sedan, measuring compact, may lack nothing in terms of roomy and supportive seatings for long rides. The minimalist interior borders on the staple layout of the dashboard amid a floating center console embellishing cabin aesthetics.
Cabin materials are well-appointed using high-quality soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and aluminum accents that really do the luxury feeling proud. The S40 does provide adequate legroom for front seaters but rear-seat space is a bit tight for taller passengers. The trunk only accommodates 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space, a bit on the smaller side compared with its rivals, though still good enough for everyday usage.
A standard feature of the 2011 Volvo S40 includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat, Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system. Some of its options can include a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a sunroof.
Technology and Infotainment
Volvo has equipped the 2011 S40 with a decent roster of tech features, but certainly not spearheading the cutting edge compared to some of its contemporary luxury sedans. Infotainment slips in easily with well-conceived buttons and controls. The navigation system does feel just a tad yesterday’s news in the equipment it does come with.
Standard equipment features include Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, an auxiliary audio input jack, and a CD player. An eight-speaker audio system will provide you with crisp, balanced sound; listening aficionados will also love the available Dynaudio premium sound system that will take listening to a new dimension.
Additionally, Volvo offers several available tech packages; one is added with a rear parking camera and upgraded sound systems. Technology features are functional and reliable, though not quite comparable with those of its rivals, like Audi and BMW.
Safety Features
Safety features are always something that Volvo is known for, and the 2011 S40 does not disappoint. The S40 offers a variety of sophisticated features in safety meant to protect occupants in case of an accident and protect against accidents occurring in the first place.
Standard safety features include:
1. Antilock brakes (ABS)
2. Electronic stability control
3. Traction control
4. Front-seat side airbags
5. Full-length curtain airbags
6. Whiplash protection system for front seats
7.Tire pressure monitoring system
In addition, the 2011 Volvo S40 received the highest ratings in crash tests, as it got five stars in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s frontal and side impact tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tested the S40, giving it the rating of a “Top Safety Pick.” This ensures that this auto tops all other vehicles in matters of safety.
Driving Dynamics
The 2011 Volvo S40, though not the most agile car in its class, provides a supremely smooth ride. The turbocharged engine produces adequate power, especially during highway merging and overtaking, though the five-speed automatic transmission shifts accordingly. The S40 is one of its standouts in terms of ride, with suspension absorbing the road imperfections, well cushioned, and comfortable.
With comfort being the biggest priority, aside from sporty handling, the S40 has been well balanced in terms of responsiveness and refinement. However, if owners are enthusiasts, they might feel the steering to be less engaging and the handling less nimble than that in either a BMW 3 Series or an Acura TSX. However, the S40 covers all bases and suits most drivers well.
Exterior Design
The 2011 Volvo S40 is characterized by understated design that itself is totally representative of the true aspect of the design philosophy of Volvo. Clean lines, elegant proportions, and subtle chrome accents give this S40 a premium look that’s not too overpowering. A front grille rests proudly with its iconic Volvo emblem, whereas the R-Design trim brings sporty touches, a rear spoiler, bigger wheels, and an even more aggressive body kit.
The S40 is very easy to navigate through any urban layout, no matter how tight; and the exterior styling is just great-every one of the drivers who love sophisticated European design will surely like it.
Pricing and Value
Value for money, comfortable ride, and safety assure this compact luxury sedan from Volvo. The base T5 model goes for approximately $27,750, while the sporty R-Design trim goes for about $31,150.
The S40 may not be as prestigious as its German competitors, but it more than makes up for that in strength on safety credentials and build quality.
Conclusion
After all, what 2011 Volvo S40 shopper wants is safety, comfort, and refinement. Not the sportiest or the most technological among cars in its category, the S40 will attract you if you really care about balance in performance and practicality. This 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is powerful enough for most driving situations, and the ride quality is as smooth as could be expected under such circumstances, making it suitable for long-distance drives or for when battling daily traffic.
Clearly, the S40’s interior is a perfect characteristic of Volvo and its Scandinavian ancestry. There has been an intention at combining both minimalist design and high-grade materials, paired with supportive seats that ensure one doesn’t experience discomfort during long drives. The rear-seat space is somewhat closed in; however, the cabin premium more than compensates for that drawback. The automobile’s tech features are not much on the edge but practical enough to be used, and available updates enhance the driving experience.
What really sets apart the S40 is actually its outstanding safety feature, coupled with high ratings for crash tests. Volvo has already distinguished its brand with the emphasis of safety in all aspects of design for this car, from advanced airbags and whiplash protection. Thus, for families or even for a safety-driven motorist, one major point for selling would be the level of security this vehicle would give.
Overall, the 2011 Volvo S40 is indeed a well-constructed, safe luxury sedan with good value for money. Not necessarily a beast in terms of performance or technology, it gives users the comforts and all the safety features to choose for a comfortable and assured ride experience.
