Volvo V40 (96-04) - Review Review by Parkers on 01 January 1996 Volvo's efforts to build a convincing medium car have brought us the modern V40/S40 series, a huge improvement over the uninspired, stodgy old 440/460 series. Compared with the class-leading Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, Volvo still has some way to go, but the S40/V40 is far from ordinary and has safety and solidity on its side. The turbo engines, particularly the T4, have attracted a new wave of younger, fashion-conscious buyers, though Volvo is still not as trendy as its compatriot, Saab. Some early cars were not quite up to scratch in terms of build quality, but improvements were soon made and the range is now a sensible buy, new or secondhand. 3 out of 5 Other Volvo reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Owners' Reviews Gallery 3.5 out of 5 Comfort V40 has supportive and comfortable seats - like so many other Volvos. There should be few complaints on long journeys, although the rear is better suited to two adults (just like the S40 saloon variant). Head and legroom is adequate. A sensible car to be driven in, but one that lacks a sense of occasion. View full gallery 3 out of 5 Practicality V40 manages to mix style and substance - in the shape of a useable load area. It's just the job for weekend trips to DIY stores, the dump and it has a big enough luggage area for short holidays. Not really practical for heavy-duty work, but perfect as a family holdall. Good sized glovebox and a few little cubbies, too. Get a Volvo V40 valuation View full gallery How does the boot space compare? Audi A4 Avant (96-01) 390 litres Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon (00-05) 360 litres Volvo V40 (96-04) 357 litres Lexus IS Sport Cross (01-05) 343 litres 3 out of 5 Behind the wheel V40 is a good place to be on long motorway trips, thanks to supportive seats and a logically laid-out cabin. There's plenty of head- and legroom, too. Visibility could be better, but on the while, V40 offers a good driving position, though visibility could be a lot better. The dials are clear and the big, chunky, buttons are easy to use. View full gallery Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Volvo V40 cars for sale We have 42 models like this for sale. Find Volvo V40 cars for sale Previous: Driving & Performance Next: Costs