Volvo S40 (04 on) - Review

The compact S40 offers decent space for the driver while the seats are incredibly comfortable - especially the optional sumptuous leather versions. It's a bit of a squeeze for three adults in the back, but not too bad for two, with adequate leg room while headroom is fine for anyone up to about 6ft tall. The ride can be a little choppy over poor surfaces, something that does not affect the car on smooth motorways and A-roads. It's quiet though with little intrusion from road or wind noise.

Boot capacity isn't as generous as you'd expect of a car of this size, but the S40 will still handle a couple of suitcases. The V50 is essentially the estate version of the S40 and may bet a better bet if you need more room. Storage in the front could be better - the door pockets are very narrow on cars built before September 2007 and only slightly improved after that. Although the 'floating' centre console is a neat styling touch it does limit the amount of useful and accessible cubby holes in the S40.

The S40's interior has a suitably upmarket feel. The buttons for the sound system, sat nav and climate control look beautifully crafted - like you'd expect to see on an expensive stereo - and are housed on a slim centre console panel that looks like it's floating. Volvo seats are exemplary - supportive, comfortable and up to the job of long distances, while the driver has plenty of adjustment available to find a perfect driving position.