For 2010, the Volvo S40 sedan is offered in three models, while the V50 wagon comes in two. Sedans include the base 2.4i, the T5 R-Design and the T5 AWD R-Design. Wagon models include the 2.41 and T5 AWD R-Design.
The 2.4i models get a 2.4L 5-cylinder engine that makes 168 horsepower, matched with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Sporty T5 R-Design models get a 227-horsepower, 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder, with a standard 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed auto. Automatic transmissions have Geartronic manual control. The 2.4i and regular T5 are front-wheel drive, while the T5 AWD model has an all-wheel drivetrain.
The S40 and V50 have a more stylish interior than is typical for small cars, with a unique pass-through center console and "floating" center stack. Aluminum inlays plus chronograph-style gauges help distinguish the V50.
Several high-tech features that originally made their debut in Volvo's larger, more expensive models are offered on the S40 and V50. The blind spot information system (BLIS), which helps inform the driver when a vehicle is present in the adjacent lane, is available on all models. Active bi-xenon headlamp system is also available, which helps increase visibility in dark corners by swiveling the beams to the side. The DVD-based navigation system is offered on R-Design models, as well as a 650-watt, 12-speaker Dynaudio Package.
R-Design models feature more power and sportier suspension tuning, as well as fog lamps and appearance extras. Inside, they also get better interior appointments, such as automatic climate control, upgraded audio and a power driver's seat.
As they're Volvo models, a strong emphasis on safety is to be expected. Stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and emergency brake assistance are standard, as is a whiplash protection system, front side air bags and side curtain bags. If any of the air bags are deployed, the hazard lights are automatically activated.
The Volvo S40 sedan and its V50 wagon counterpart get few changes for 2010, the most notable being the reintroduction of a 5-speed manual transmission as standard on S40 2.4i, while the T5 AWD gets a new 6-speed manual. The T5 FWD continues to come with a 5-speed automatic as standard.
The 2010 Volvo S40 and V50 are stylish, attractive small-car alternatives. Especially notable is the distinctive interior with its ?floating' center-stack design which brings an airier feel to the instrument panel. The T5 R-Design's more powerful engine brings impressive acceleration. Include Volvo's reputation for safety and the S40/V50 are well-rounded values.
