My-Dream-Cars reviews : Volvo S40
The S40 is a 4-door, 5-passenger sports sedan, available in 3 trims, ranging from the 2.4i to the T5 AWD. Upon introduction, the 2.4i is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I5, 168-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 5-speed automatic transmission is optional. The T5 AWD is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, I5, 227-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard.

Which Volvo S40 is right for you?
Whether you want the efficiency of diesel, or the performance of petrol, you’re bound to find the perfect engine for your lifestyle in our S40 range. Thanks to our cutting-edge engine technology you can enjoy rapid acceleration, high torque, excellent fuel economy, low emissions, a selection of transmissions and much more.

Diesel
S40 D5 (180 hp)
S40 1.6D (109 hp) and
S40 2.0D (136 hp)

Flexifuel
S40 1.8 Flexifuel (125 hp)

Petrol
S40 T5 (230 hp) and
S40 T5 AWD (230 hp)
S40 1.6 (100 hp),
S40 1.8 (125 hp) and
S40 2.0 (145 hp)
S40 2.4 (140 hp) and
S40 2.4i (170 hp)

Diesel
S40 D5 (180 hp)
* Five-cylinder high performance turbodiesel engine
* Latest diesel technology
* High torque
* Very competitive fuel economy
* Particle filter standard
* Five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission (350 Nm) or Six-speed manual transmission (400 Nm)

S40 1.6D (109 hp)
S40 2.0D (136 hp)
* Four-cylinder turbo diesel engines
* Advanced diesel technology
* Superior fuel economy
* High torque
* Available with five-speed manual gearbox (1.6D only)
* Available with six-speed manual or Powershift (2.0D only)

Flexifuel
S40 1.8 Flexifuel (125 hp)
* Four-cylinder petrol/E85 bioethanol (mix of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol) engine
* Up to 80% lower emissions of fossil carbon dioxide when running on E85 bioethanol
* Ethanol is a renewable source of energy
* Integrated engine heater standard
* Five-speed manual gearbox
* Currently available in some European markets. Consult your dealer.

Petrol
S40 T5 (230 hp)
S40 T5 AWD (230 hp)
* Sporty five-cylinder 2.5 litre turbocharged petrol engines
* 320 Nm available from just 1500 revs
* 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds (T5)
* Dual continuously variable valve timing
* Available with six-speed manual or five-speed Geartronic automatic  transmission

S40 1.6 (100 hp)
S40 1.8 (125 hp)
S40 2.0 (145 hp)
* High-efficiency four-cylinder petrol engines
* Smooth operation
* Sharp response
* Variable inlet manifold provides high level of torque
* Low fuel consumption
* Available with five-speed manual gearbox

S40 2.4 (140 hp)
S40 2.4i (170 hp)
* Five-cylinder 2.4 litre engines
* Great fuel economy
* Continuously variable valve timing
* Advanced emission-control technology
* Five-speed manual or five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission

SAFETY

Preventive safety
The most important safety systems in a Volvo, are those that support you as driver and help you avoid being involved in an accident. They not only determines how fun the car is to drive – they are also crucial to help you maintain control in challenging situations.

-Bi-Xenon® lights
The headlamps combine separate reflectors to provide even and effective illumination in all conditions. For even better night vision, there’s the option of Bi-Xenon® gas discharge lamps. Compared to conventional halogen headlamps, Bi-Xenon® headlights expand your vision range by about 230%. This means you’ll gain a further 45 metres for braking. Independent of the load, these headlights self-adjust to maintain the correct angle to the road – even during hard acceleration or braking. Bi-Xenon is a registered trademark of Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.

-Active Bi-Xenon Light (ABL)
In addition to improving illumination by about 230%, Active Bi-Xenon® headlights give a 90% boost to your vision round bends at night. Controlled by microprocessors, the motorised lamps turn up to 15 degrees in either direction when driving – reliably lighting up your chosen path. A twilight sensor disengages the adaptive function during daylight to extend its life span. Bi-Xenon is a registered trademark of Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.

-Emergency Brake Lights (EBL)
Active at speeds above 50 km/h, EBL can sense the difference between normal and panic braking. If it is a panic situation, all the brake lights will flash at a rate of four times per second. Once your speed slows to below 30 km/h, the lights stop flashing and hazard lights flash instead.

-DSTC anti-skid system
DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) enhances driving stability in slippery conditions by comparing the rotation of the drive wheels and, if needed, varying the power supply. This system also compares the car’s direction with its steering wheel movements. Then, when necessary, cuts engine power or brakes individual wheels to help reduce skidding and maintain control. You can even set the system to ensure extra traction in snowy conditions.

-IDIS Intelligent Driver Information System
IDIS is another Volvo safety world first, inspired by technology normally found in fighter aircraft. To avoid unnecessary distractions in critical driving situations, IDIS constantly analyses the driving situation. If necessary, it momentarily delays some information from the car’s onboard systems—such as the integrated phone. As soon as things calm down, the call or relevant warning is then relayed to the driver. IDIS can be set up to let phone calls through in all driving situations.

-Water-repellent side windows
To help offer far better visibility in the wet, these front side windows help repel water as you drive. The hydrophobic surface treatment turns water into small drops that will be blown away by the force of the wind. This also gives you the benefit of less ice or frost in winter conditions.

-Anti-locking brake system with Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA)
The anti-locking disc brakes are designed for optimal performance even during repetitive and intensive use. You can brake as hard as you like as you steer clear of trouble. EBA detects an attempted emergency braking and, when necessary, provides added assistance to bring the car to standstill in the shortest possible distance. Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) distributes the braking effect between the front and rear wheels to achieve optimal results according to load and driving conditions.

-Front fog lamps
Fog and cornering lamps in the front spoiler provide better vision when driving in poor visibility or heavy rain or snow.

-Side-marker lamps
Integrated front and rear side-marker lamps help alert other drivers to your car’s presence.

-Warning triangle
These light-weight wide-angle reflectors stand upright to alert other road users even in strong winds and on slippery surfaces. They fold easily and store in their own case.

-Auxiliary lamps
If you do a lot of night driving, auxiliary lamps provide a stronger high beam.

-Snow chains

Protective safety
If an accident can’t be avoided, in a Volvo you and your passengers are surrounded by a wealth of interacting state-of-the-art protective systems. The very tangible result of decades of Volvo’s research and passion for safety.

-Reinforced passenger compartment
Consisting of four different grades of steel, this lightweight yet sturdy safety cage provides an outstanding level of protection for you and your passengers. Our patented frontal structure distributes incoming collision forces, while an extra-stiff front cross-member under the dashboard helps reduce intrusion into the cabin to protect your feet and legs. In a side impact, our SIPS side-impact collision protection system distributes the crash force across a large portion of the car’s body to further help reducing your risk of injury.

-Energy-absorbing frontal structure
To help provide a high level of safety in a compact car, the frontal structure is built with several types of steel to allow optimal deformation performance (outer layers are more yielding, while steel closer to the cabin is more resilient). This structure helps absorb the impact of a collision before it reaches the occupants and reduce the car’s weight. A steel strut under the dashboard helps prevent components in the engine bay from intruding into the cabin – helping to protect legs and feet.

-Side-Impact Protection System (SIPS)
Helps reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision from the side. Consists of a strong body structure with a number of interacting features, all of which help to distribute crash forces across a large part of the car’s body to minimise the strain on the occupants. The sides of the car body employ diagonal struts of ultra high-strength steel to help protect if the car is being hit by an SUV. Even the front seat frames are reinforced to withstand severe force and help provide additional protection. The IC inflatable curtain for all the outboard occupants and the front seat side airbags enhance head, chest and hip protection.

-Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)
Integrated in the front seats, Volvo’s unique Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) cradles the spine and neck in a controlled manner. The system is activated by a collision of sufficient force from behind. Independent research has shown that WHIPS is one of the most effective in the world. Since its introduction in 1998, it has helped reduce long-term consequences by more than 50%.

-Head restraints for all seats
Positioned to offer optimum protection irrespective of the occupant’s height, the restraints offer drivers and passengers outstanding protection. The rear middle restraint can be fully folded into the backrest to improve the driver’s rearward visibility.

-Safety belts with pre-tensioners
The front seats and the outer rear seats feature safety belt pre-tensioners to help provide maximum protection in the event of an accident. The front seat safety belts then slacken slightly so that the occupants are restrained by the airbags in a more controlled manner.
Sound signals and warning symbols remind you to fasten your safety belt before driving away. And in the information display in the instrument panel, you can check if the rear seat passengers have fastened their safety belts.

-Anti-submarining protection
Both the front and rear seats feature anti-submarining guards that are contoured to help prevent occupants from sliding under and out of their safety belts in a collision.

-Dual-stage airbags, driver and front passenger
In a frontal collision, the driver and passenger airbags help protect your head, face and chest. The system varies their level of inflation depending on the force of the collision. Should the collision force be sufficiently low that the airbags aren’t needed, it will deploy the safety belt pre-tensioners.

-Passenger airbag cut-off switch
In order for a child less than 150 cm tall to ride in the front passenger seat, you can specify your Volvo with a passenger airbag which can be conveniently deactivated or activated as necessary with the help of the car’s key. You’re notified both when the cut-off switch is ON and Off. The message appears in the overhead console. Please check Product Description (Not for US Market.)

-Inflatable Curtain (IC)
Inflating in a side-impact accident to help protect the heads of all outboard occupants, the IC (Inflatable Curtain) helps to offer protection whether you’re in the front or the rear. It also stays inflated in multiple or longer-duration accidents.

-Side-impact airbags for driver and front passenger
These help reduce the risk of serious injuries to the chest and hips in a side-impact collision. Inflating in a fraction of a second, they’re fitted in the outer edge of the front-seat backrests, ensuring they’re always positioned securely by your side. Together with the SIPS system and the Inflatable Curtain (IC), they help provide a unique level of protection.

-Collapsible steering column
The steering column is an advanced part of the safety system, with the upper and lower sections giving way in a controlled manner in a frontal impact to reduce the risk of injury to the driver. It also works with the airbag to provide optimum protection.

-Energy-absorbing interior
All the panels and door sides are padded with energy-absorbing materials to help reduce the risk of injury to the car’s occupants.

-For unprotected road-users
By developing features like a soft plastic beam in front of the bumper, we’ve designed the front of your car to help absorb crash energy and reduce injury to anyone colliding with the car.

-Volvo On Call
Activating automatically if any of your car’s airbags are deployed – or at the touch of a button – Volvo On Call is Volvo’s roadside assistance and emergency service. Not only does it put you in direct contact with a Volvo On Call operator, a built-in GPS system allows them to pinpoint your location and get help to you as soon as possible. The system can also alert you of an attempted break-in. And if the car is stolen, it can be traced via satellite.

-First-aid kit
The first-aid kit is conveniently carried in the load compartment and contains a variety of bandages. The contents are stored in different compartments to make it easier to find what you want in an emergency.

Child safety
In a Volvo, children can travel as safely as adults. Children up to the age of three ride safest in a rear-facing child seat, and larger children when they’re seated on a booster cushion and secured with the safety belt. Of course, all Volvo’s child safety equipment is realistically crash tested.

SECURITY
Volvo’s holistic approach to safety also encompasses your personal security – on your way to and from your car, and after you’ve parked it.

-Keyless drive
As long as you have your key in your pocket or handbag, keyless drive lets you unlock your car just by grasping the door handle. To start the engine, just twist the starter control in the instrument panel. To lock all the doors, simply press the button in the door handle. Convenient? Definitely – but also safer, too.

-Remote-controlled central locking system
A touch of a button locks or unlocks the doors and boot lid. Use the personal settings menu to decide if the remote unlocks the driver’s door first or all doors together. You can also close or open all windows (including the sunroof if you have one) and unlock the boot separately. All doors can be automatically locked the moment you drive away. Alternatively, lock them swiftly using the button beside the interior door handle.

-Global locking and closing
This function allows you to close all windows and lock the car all at once by pressing the button on the remote control for two seconds. Alternatively, press the button for two seconds to unlock the car and open all the windows. A second press of the button at this point opens the sunroof to the comfort position.

-Immobiliser and theft-protected locks
Not only will the door locks withstand most break-in attempts, the electronic immobiliser makes it impossible to start the car without the right key. And even if a would-be thief manages to get into the car, via the window, for example, the deadlock system makes it impossible to open the door from the inside.

-Remote controlled alarm
The alarm is triggered if anyone attempts to open the doors, bonnet or boot lid, as well as reacting to movement inside the car or if a window is broken. Add a level sensor and the alarm triggers if the car is jacked up – and you can activate it manually from your remote control in an emergency.

-Level sensor
Triggers the alarm if anybody attempts to jack up the car to steal the wheels or tow it away.

-Approach and Home Safe lighting
These functions illuminate your path to and from the car. Press the remote control button when you approach the car and the path to the car and it’s surrounding will be lightened up. When you leave the car, press the headlamp stalk and the dipped headlamps will light your path for 30, 60 or 90 seconds.

-Power retractable door mirrors with ground lighting
At the touch of a button, these door mirrors can be folded flat against the car where they are less likely to get damaged after you’ve parked. They also fold or unfold automatically every time you lock or unlock the car. The integrated ground lighting is activated with the remote control. Beyond enhancing security to and from your car at night, this is also convenient when getting in and out.

-Laminated side windows
These laminated side door windows are harder to smash, and they also cut noise inside the cabin. Peace of mind all round.

-Lockable wheel bolts
A simple, effective way of reducing the risk of aluminium wheels from being stolen. Each wheel lock features one uniquely coded socket enabling only you to remove your wheels.

-Volvo On Call
Activating automatically if any of your car’s airbags are deployed – or at the touch of a button – Volvo On Call is Volvo’s roadside assistance and emergency service. Not only does it put you in direct contact with a Volvo On Call operator, a built-in GPS system allows them to pinpoint your location and get help to you as soon as possible. The system can also alert you of an attempted break-in. And if the car is stolen, it can be traced via satellite.

-HomeLink®
With buttons integrated in the sun visor, HomeLink® allows you to operate remote controlled home appliances – such as garage door, home alarm and exterior lighting – without leaving the car. HomeLink is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls Technology Company.

-One-Key System
Most of Volvo’s loading accessories use our One-Key System that allows you to lock and unlock them using the same key. Which means less scrabbling for keys.

-Jumper cables
These 3.5 m jumper cables make it possible to “borrow” current from either a separate battery or from another car – or the other way around. Strong clamps with insulated handles offer you the peace of mind that comes with added protection.

-Towing rope
An easy-to-handle five metre long towing rope with a red warning flag in the centre – it may be invaluable the day you need it. Tensile strength 2500 kg.

DRIVER’S SUPPORT
A relaxed driver is a safe driver. Here you can learn more about the feaures that help support you as a driver – so you can enjoy driving and stay in control.

-Power windows, front and rear
The power windows have controls conveniently located in the door armrests. All the windows can be lowered or raised with a quick press of a button. They also feature automatic anti-clamp protection and can be locked by the driver—perfect if you’re traveling with children. You can also simultaneously shut all the windows (and the sunroof) using your central locking remote control.

-Power outlet
Neatly integrated at the rear end of the tunnel console, the extra power outlet can provide electricity for a laptop, game console, DVD player or other portable electronic devices.

-Interior lighting
An entry light on both the driver and front passenger side lights the foot-well area upon entry into the car. Front reading lamps are nicely integrated in the roof console. The rear seat reading lamps are recessed in the roof and shaded to avoid dazzling the driver. The interior light will fade out 25 seconds after the doors have been closed, but will switch off immediately if the ignition is turned on or the doors are locked.

-Personal settings
Define your Volvo’s convenience and security settings according to your personal preferences using this simple computer interface. Depending on which technologies you have, this is where you configure the audio and climate settings, navigation, communication, central locking, Approach and Home Safe lighting and the Intelligent Driver-Information System.

-Cruise control
Conveniently operated from the steering wheel, cruise control allows you to drive relaxed without having to keep your foot on the accelerator. The car maintains the speed you choose until you turn off the cruise control or press the brake, accelerator or clutch. After accelerating – for instance to overtake – your car automatically reverts to its previous cruising speed once you release the accelerator. After braking, the car returns to its previous cruising speed at the touch of a button.

-Road and Traffic Information (RTI)
The Volvo navigation system is your perfect travel companion. It is a high performance hard disk HDD system using a combination of voice guidance and map displays to help you find the shortest and fastest way to your destination, saving you both time and fuel costs along the way. It will tell you where the nearest petrol station is or give directions to a restaurant and it also suggests an alternate route when your normal route is overly congested (requires traffic information, TMC). The 6.5″ retractable screen is located in a high position on the dashboard ensuring safe viewing. You don’t have to remove the navigation system from your vehicle when you park, it is fully integrated into the car, hence offering theft protection and the benefit of having no visible cables in your Volvo. The system has passed severe Volvo crash tests and is located in a position that minimizes the risk of harming occupants in case of an accident.

-Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
BLIS, (the Blind Spot Information System) is particularly reassuring in congested and fast-moving traffic situations. Using rear-facing digital cameras installed in the door mirrors, it monitors the traffic on either side of the car. As a vehicle enters your blind spot, the system helps alert you with a discreet lamp built in to the front door post on the approaching side of the car. Together with the door mirrors, this helps enable you to quickly assess the feasibility of a lane change. The system is activated once the car exceeds 10 km/h, and reacts to almost any type of motor vehicle. It works equally well, day or night. Always check your mirrors. Be aware of the traffic around you.

-Park Assist Rear and Park Assist Front
Park Assist Rear makes it easier to reverse, for instance when backing into a space between two cars. A pulsating tone inside the cabin rises to a steady signal when an object is about 30 cm behind your rear bumper. Can also be supplemented with Park Assist Front to alert you when you are too close to an object in front of your car.

-Rain sensor
When the rain sensor is activated, your windscreen wipers will start automatically as soon as it starts to rain or water splashes onto the windscreen. You can even change its sensitivity – or turn it off completely – via a button/ring on the wiper stalk.

-Electrically adjustable heated outer rear-view mirrors
Easily adjusted from the driver’s seat, these are electrically heated and therefore kept free from frost in cold weather.

-Power retractable door mirrors with ground lighting
At the touch of a button, these door mirrors can be folded flat against the car where they are less likely to get damaged after you’ve parked. They also fold or unfold automatically every time you lock or unlock the car. The integrated ground lighting is activated with the remote control. Beyond enhancing security to and from your car at night, this is also convenient when getting in and out.

-Multifunctional door mirrors
The generously dimensioned door mirrors are power operated using a joystick in the driver’s door panel. Indicators are embedded in the sides of the mirror – a nudge of the indicator stalk will activate three flashes of the indicator light, so there’s less risk your turn will go unannounced. To further enhance your safety and comfort, there are options such as power folding, puddle lights and Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

-Automatically dimmed rear-view mirror
Ending the need to take your hand off the steering wheel and stop headlight beams shining in your eyes, the anti-dazzle function is stepless and returns to normal when it’s no longer needed. Also available with a built-in compass.

-Automatically dimmed rear-view mirror with compass
When driving in remote areas or unfamiliar cities a compass can prove invaluable. The automatic anti-dazzle rear-view mirror is available with an integrated compass that you activate or deactivate using a button in the mirror cover. The compass also lights up.

-Illuminated vanity mirror
Fitted in the sun visor, comes on when you open the vanity mirror cover – convenient and practical. Available for both the driver and front passenger.

-Trip computer
Operated via the indicator stalk, the trip computer shows current and average fuel consumption, how far the fuel will take you and average speed – helping you drive more economically.

-Ambient temperature gauge
Monitors the outside temperature and warns you if there is any risk of black ice.

-Headlamp level adjuster
The headlamp level adjuster allows the driver to lower or raise the angle of the headlight beam by turning a dial on the instrument panel. This is particularly useful when driving at night with a full load.

-Volvo’s Portable Navigation System
This portable and powerful navigation unit integrates smoothly with the design of your Volvo. Just fit it into the docking unit in the middle of the dashboard. The screen is conveniently positioned in your field of vision. So you can stay focused on the road and let the system guide you. It’s easily operated using the touch-screen. The navigation unit is easy to carry with you and can also be used outside the car. Maps covering major parts of Europe or North America are stored in memory.

ENGINES

Four-cylinder petrol engine (1.6, 1.8 and 2.0)
The high-efficiency four-cylinder engine is an inspiring source of power. Smooth operation, sharp response and low weight contribute to a sporty yet harmonious drive. Its variable inlet manifold provides a high level of torque throughout the rev range. What’s more, its efficiency allows you to enjoy low fuel consumption in all driving conditions.

Five-cylinder petrol engine (2.4 and 2.4i)
The five-cylinder petrol engine combines a refined yet lively driving experience. Comfort, fast and safe overtaking and not least, appealing fuel economy, are the benefits to be enjoyed. Continuously variable inlet valve timing promotes high performance and plenty of response at all revs. Based on the 2.4 engine, the 2.4i is tuned to offer more power at higher revs. Complies with stringent emission standards, such as California’s ULEV II.

Five-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (T5)
For even more exhilaration, there’s the high-performance 230 hp five-cylinder T5 petrol engine. It boasts a turbo-charger and variable all valve timing, delivering an exceptionally quick and powerful response throughout the entire rev range. Complies with stringent emission standards, such as California’s ULEV II.

Four-cylinder turbodiesel (1.6D and 2.0D)
The latest diesel engine technology, including common rail direct injection and variable turbine geometry, means quick and comfortable response, cleaner exhaust and good fuel economy. The high torque (240 Nm or 320 Nm) of the four-cylinder turbodiesel provides excellent performance in all conditions. The engine’s low weight contributes to low fuel consumption and well-balanced road behaviour. The engine meets strict environmental demands and features a particle filter that effectively reduces soot particles in exhaust gases.

Five-cylinder turbodiesel (D5)
This high performance all-aluminium 180 hp five-cylinder turbodiesel is both exhilarating and harmonious. The latest diesel technology, including common rail direct injection and variable turbine geometry, means quick and comfortable response, superior fuel economy and cleaner exhaust. Its high torque provides sharp take-off, powerful overtaking and – not least – a truly spirited driving experience. Low weight further enhances fuel economy and a balanced drive. All Volvo turbodiesels feature a particle filter that effectively reduces soot particles in exhaust gases – the D5 already complies with stringent, upcoming Euro5 exhaust emission requirements.

Four-cylinder Flexifuel engine, E85 bioethanol (1.8F)
Volvo’s Flexifuel engine benefits both the environment and your wallet — without compromising driving pleasure or comfort. When driving on E85 bioethanol, the net contribution of fossil carbon dioxide is about 80% lower compared to petrol. At the same time, you can enjoy the same performance as those of a corresponding petrol engine. You fill up bioethanol in the same fuel tank as for the petrol. The engine adapts instantly to the fuel mix. For cold weather, you can add an electric engine heater.

TRANSMISSION

Five-speed manual gearbox
For maximum driving spirit, the five-speed manual gearbox offers fluid and precise gear selection. The smooth action of the clutch assures that you move off with confidence and grace.

Six-speed manual gearbox
For maximum driving spirit, the six-speed all-synchromesh manual gearbox offers fluid and precise gear selection. The sixth gear improves comfort and fuel economy on the motorway. The smooth action of the clutch assures that you move off with confidence and grace.

Five-speed Geartronic transmission
Geartronic offers the best of two worlds. Leave it in five-speed automatic mode for carefree driving, or nudge it into manual mode to shift gears yourself. This allows you to maintain a lower gear, for example, to provide added engine braking as you approach a bend or curve. The automatic transmission is also perfect if you need to get the car to crawl slowly with a heavy load under difficult conditions. A separate winter mode makes it easier to get under way when conditions are slippery.

Six-speed Powershift transmission
Featuring Powershift dual-clutch technology, this new six-speed automatic can reduce fuel consumption by 8% compared to a conventional automatic. Gears are shifted instantaneously and torque is delivered without disruption. And if you want, you can also shift gears manually. Available with the 2.0D engine.

All-wheel Drive with Instant Traction™
The advanced Haldex® AWD system with Instant Traction™ has an electronic management system that constantly monitors the speed of the wheels, the throttle, engine torque, engine speed and the brakes. As driving conditions change, wheels with the best grip get the most power. When a tire loses traction, power is reduced to that wheel and instantly transferred to the more sure-footed wheels.

CHASSIS & STEERING

Chassis
The wide wheelbase and the advanced chassis promote balanced handling and a high level of comfort. The rigid body enables the Multi-link rear and McPherson spring strut front suspension to cope predictably and consistently with all types of roads. The front and rear suspensions also interact to provide stable braking and smooth steering. In a curve, the rear wheels have a slight steering facility for added stability and steering response.

DSTC anti-skid system
DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) enhances driving stability in slippery conditions by comparing the rotation of the drive wheels and, if needed, varying the power supply. This system also compares the car’s direction with its steering wheel movements. Then, when necessary, cuts engine power or brakes individual wheels to help reduce skidding and maintain control. You can even set the system to ensure extra traction in snowy conditions.

Low Sports Chassis
This sports chassis lowers your Volvo by 20 mm and makes it even more dynamic and fun to drive. It includes lower springs.

Electro-hydraulic power steering
The electro-hydraulic rack and pinion steering* responds to your commands precisely and intuitively. Behind the wheel, you can enjoy responsive yet firm steering at all speeds.
*1.6 features hydraulic power steering.

Automatic levelling
When you tow or carry a heavy load, automatic levelling adjusts the rear shock absorbers so the vehicle will maintain road holding, ground clearance and headlight angle.

My-Dream-Cars reviews : Volvo S40