When searching for a dependable used compact luxury sedan, the 2011 Volvo S40 remains a standout choice for many drivers. Combining Scandinavian design, a strong safety record, and solid driving dynamics, this model offers more than what many would expect from a decade-old vehicle. In this in-depth review, we break down the specs, performance, features, and long-term ownership value of the 2011 S40 to help you determine if it’s worth buying in today’s market.
Overview: A Compact Luxury Sedan with Character
The 2011 Volvo S40 marked the final model year of Volvo’s second-generation S40. Known for its clean, minimalistic design and a reputation for safety, the S40 catered to buyers seeking something more refined than a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla but more budget-friendly than a BMW 3 Series.
Its elegant proportions, refined interior, and signature Volvo build quality made it a popular choice among young professionals and small families looking for both luxury and practicality in a compact frame.
Trim Levels and Pricing
In 2011, the Volvo S40 was offered in two main trims in the U.S.:
S40 T5 (Front-Wheel Drive)
S40 T5 R-Design (All-Wheel Drive)
The base price when new started around $27,750, while the R-Design model, with additional performance upgrades and cosmetic enhancements, hovered around $31,000. In the used market today, depending on mileage and condition, these models can be found anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, making it a cost-effective entry point into luxury ownership.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2011 S40 T5 packs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5 engine, producing 227 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, and while it wasn’t the quickest in its class, it delivered smooth power delivery and confident highway merging capabilities.
0–60 mph: ~6.7 seconds (T5 R-Design)
Top Speed: ~130 mph
Drivetrain: FWD (T5), AWD (R-Design)
Fuel Economy (EPA):
City: 21 MPG
Highway: 30 MPG
Though some enthusiasts may crave a manual transmission, the automatic offered refined shifts, and the turbocharged engine added excitement that many base-level luxury sedans of the era lacked.
Ride Quality and Handling
The 2011 Volvo S40 delivers a composed and comfortable ride, making it ideal for commuting and long-distance drives. While its handling may not match German sport sedans, the S40 holds its own with responsive steering and a firm yet compliant suspension setup.
The R-Design trim improves driving dynamics slightly thanks to sport-tuned suspension and lower ride height, offering tighter cornering without compromising ride comfort.
Interior Features and Build Quality
Volvo is known for its clean and functional interior design, and the S40 exemplifies that ethos. The standout feature is the “floating center stack”, which houses the climate and audio controls in a sleek, upright panel that appears to hover in place. Materials are high quality, with soft-touch plastics, aluminum accents, and well-padded seats.
Key features include:
Leather upholstery (standard in R-Design)
Power front seats
Bluetooth hands-free calling
High-quality 8-speaker audio system
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Available navigation system
Optional sunroof and premium sound upgrade
Rear seat space is somewhat limited for tall passengers, but the cabin is quiet, refined, and ergonomic—hallmarks of Volvo design.
Cargo Space and Practicality
The 2011 S40 offers 12.6 cubic feet of trunk space, which is average for the segment. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, allowing for flexible cargo storage when needed. It’s a practical setup for city dwellers or small families who need a blend of commuting capability and light cargo hauling.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety has always been at the core of Volvo’s identity, and the 2011 S40 was no exception. It earned high scores in crash tests and came equipped with a robust suite of safety features for its time.
Standard safety features:
Front, side, and curtain airbags
Electronic stability control
Antilock brakes with emergency brake assist
Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)
Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
Child safety locks and LATCH system
The IIHS rated the S40 “Good” in most crashworthiness categories, and the car was praised for its build integrity and occupant protection.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
The 2011 S40 is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, especially when properly maintained. That said, owners should be aware of some known issues such as:
Occasional turbocharger or PCV system problems
Electronic gremlins affecting window switches or sensors
Costlier repairs due to European parts sourcing
Routine maintenance costs are slightly higher than average compact sedans but lower than German luxury brands. If buying used, a full maintenance history is highly recommended.
Pros of the 2011 Volvo S40
Distinctive Scandinavian design
Strong turbocharged engine
Excellent safety features
High-quality interior materials
Affordable in the used market
Cons of the 2011 Volvo S40
Limited rear-seat space
No manual transmission option
Higher-than-average maintenance costs
Discontinued model, which may affect parts availability
Is the 2011 Volvo S40 Worth Buying in 2025?
For those looking for a stylish, safe, and turbocharged compact sedan that doesn’t scream “entry-level,” the 2011 Volvo S40 is still a relevant and smart choice in the used car market. While it’s no longer in production, the S40 offers a great blend of comfort, performance, and upscale features that can rival many newer models—especially at its current price point.
If you’re willing to keep up with maintenance and don’t need a ton of rear legroom, the S40 T5 or R-Design may be the perfect budget-friendly luxury ride.
