There's much more S40 information that I could allow myself to get into, but it's probably best for you to read over the previously released preview available in the archives of this site rather than rehash all the details here. Suffice it to say Volvo's smallest sedan comes very well equipped, enough so that only size separates it from its midsize siblings.

Volvo's smallest sedan is capable of going head to head with the best of the compact luxury car sector. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

The new model is actually good enough to be compared with the benchmarks in the compact luxury sector, the first being BMW's 3-Series and runner up being Audi's A4. I can't say I would have subjected the old car to such stiff competition. While it doesn't feel quite as solid as the BMW for instance, it's probably easier to drive on a daily basis and will cost thousands less when it becomes available.

The S40 is a perfect example of where Volvo is taking the sport/luxury marque, and I could see myself laying down the cash for one. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

And truly the S40 holds its own when compared to these class leaders. Its styling is superb inside and out, quality first rate and driving dynamics very enjoyable. It features top-tier safety equipment and a solid, stiff structure to back it all up. What's more, Volvo is now seen as a premium brand with better than average resale values. Personally I like where the sport/luxury marque is going, and could even see myself laying down hard cash for something like the S40 in the not too distant future - probably the V50 Sportswagon would better suit my needs. I would never have said that about the old Volvo. If I'm any indication, the future looks very bright in Sweden.

Specifications:

• Price Range (est MSRP): $32,000 - $45,000
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, FWD (opt AWD on T5)
• Base Engine: 168 hp, 166 lb-ft of torque, 2.4-L, I-5
• Opt Engine: 218 hp, 236 lb-ft of torque, 2.5-L, I-5, high-pressure turbo
• Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto with manual mode, 6-spd manual)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
• Curb Weight (auto transmission): 1,398 - 1,418 kg (3,082 - 3,126 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume: N/A
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 10.5 / 7.2 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
• Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300 Series, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Nissan Maxima, Saab 9-3, VW Passat
• Web Site: www.volvocanada.com

Note: Additional larger photos available in photo album.