The new S40 2.0 is replacing the 1.8-litre model and Volvo executives is confident that it will boost S40 sales even further.
It is due to become the new top-selling S40 as this is no stripped-down Volvo.
Volvo also boosted the other S40 models with better spec and minor design changes to the interior.
Well-specced
Without doubt the S40 2.0 offers more car for your money than any of its rivals, which include the base Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class models.
At a launch price of R215 000 the newcomer is packed with features such as leather trim (which is now standard across the S40 range), rain sensors, audio controls on the steering wheel, electronic climate control and fog lights to name a few.
Added in this package is the Volvo Plan that covers all standard service and maintenance costs for 5 years or 100 000 km.
As expected of any Volvo, the S40 2.0 also comes with an array of safety features and other gizmos to ensure your wellbeing on the road.
Power
This S40's 2-litre engine develops a power output of 107 kW at 6 000 r/min, while maximum torque is 185 Nm. It feels right at home in the S40 as power delivery is sufficient and the engine doesn't seem to struggle to get the S40 going.
According to Volvo the S40 2.0 has an average fuel consumption of 7.4 litres per 100 km and the Swedish carmaker says that this means a long-distance range of close to 750 km with its 55 litre fuel tank.
Design wise the new entry-level Volvo is similar to other S40s featuring the same simplistic interior styling where the most prominent feature is the attractive free-floating centre stack.
Prices