Volvo S40 Premium Compact Saloon
Published: 18th September 2003
"From the side the new Volvo S40 gives the impression of a comet on the move. The gently rounded nose, sweeping lines and abrupt tail generate a vibrant sensation of speed," says Volvo’s Design Director, Henrik Otto.
In addition, a range of optional styling accessories will be available for the new S40 to enhance its sporty and dynamic appearance, including body-coloured front and rear spoilers, side skirts and a kit to lower the body by 20 mm.
Smart and Innovative Interior
While the all-new S40’s dynamic exterior is an evolution of Volvo’s stylish, modern bodystyles, its interior is quite a revolution with a unique, ‘floating’ centre console that’s ultra-thin to offer extra interior storage space behind. It is inspired by classic, uncluttered Scandinavian design and high-tech, quality cameras and audio systems.
The slimline centre stack is available in different finishes. A dark grey ‘Bauxite’ finish is standard on ‘S’ models, while in ‘SE’ models there’s a choice of aluminium, wood-effect or an ‘Iced-Aqua’ translucent finish.
"The dashboard’s centre panel is the ultimate style icon of the car and a revolution in itself," says its designer, Guy Burgoyn. "It required considerable ingenuity and hard work to find a technical solution for this super-slim format."
A choice of three interior colour schemes and upholstery options includes leather as standard on SE models, while a new ‘Dala’ upholstery will be available with a ribbed textile and visible light-coloured seams and ‘T-Tec’ – a material inspired by modern sportswear and travel accessories.
New Generation Engines
The all-new S40 range will offer a comprehensive range of six engines
in the UK, ranging from 1.6-litre petrol and diesel units, to the
range-topping, 220 bhp, five-cylinder T5.
The new turbocharged diesel engines, developed through a joint Ford/PSA
programme, have a six-speed gearbox and feature the latest, second
generation common rail technology for maximum economy and low emissions.
A Euro IV version with particulate filter will be available in 2004.
For the ultimate in premium refinement and performance in its class, the new S40 gains two of Volvo’s transverse, in-line, five-cylinder petrol engines – the 2.4i with 170 bhp, and the sporty T5 with a 220 bhp, 2.5-litre engine, low-pressure turbocharger, and a six-speed gearbox.
Volvo will also be introducing environmentally friendly Bi-Fuel engines for the S40 saloon range, able to run on petrol as well as gas.
