1999 Volvo S40 XS review from UK and Ireland
"Dull performer"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Intermittent problem with the driver's side electric window, sometimes it closes, sometimes it refuses to close and gets stuck halfway up.
Refuses to start 1st time, especially noticeable when it's cold. Apparently this is a feature of some 1.6 models, dealer's comments...
Terrible fuel economy...!
General comments?
The Volvo S40 has good ergonomic design with comfortable seats and good driving position. I've done nearly 30,000 'ache free' miles in the last year.
Handling is poor, it rolls like a barrel in the corners/roundabouts.
In 1.6 guise it is seriously under-powered, with only 109 BHP it struggles big time, overtaking manouevres are best avoided, unless you like scaring yourself.
Fuel economy is very poor, it averages between 25 and 27 mpg regardless of how it's driven. I came from a 2.0 litre Hyundai Coupe that never did less than 30mpg and had considerably better performance.
Overall a reasonably built, safe and comfortable car. Avoid the 1.6, insist on the 2.0 litre or T4 to get decent performance. I had no choice though.
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| Mega-Economical Engine, Stylish, Much Loved |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 27000 miles |
| Previous car | Hyundai Coupe |
| Date of Entry | 28th February, 2001 |