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The 2010 Volvo S40 lineup undergoes a few changes, most notably the return of a manual transmission. This premium-compact car comes as a 4-door sedan and as a wagon called the V50 (see separate report). Both share some elements of their basic design with the Mazda 3. S40s come in 2.4i and sporty T5 R-Design trims.

The 2.4i has a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter 5-cylinder engine, a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. T5 R-Design uses a 227-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, and front- or all-wheel drive. T5 R-Designs have a different grille with an R-Design logo to go along with a sport body kit and other unique trim pieces.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. A blind-spot monitoring system is optional. Available features include a navigation system with pop-up dashboard screen, leather upholstery, and heated seats. T5s come with a sport suspension. All S40s have 17-inch wheels, and 18-inch versions are optional on the T5. Previously standard, a sunroof and satellite radio are optional. This report is based on evaluations of the 2009 Volvo S40.