Volvo - V40

1996-04 

---

Stylish looks, affordable practicality and a comfortable interior are what makes the V40 popular. It's a better executed product than the S40, on which it is based, and a much classier choice than estates of the same age from Ford and Vauxhall.

---

	Mature estate promises safety and longevity
	Generously equipped and solidly built.
	Volvo estates don't go out of fashion quickly
	V50 makes it look dated
	High running costs on 2.0T and T4 models
	Less load space than other medium estates

---

When it comes to soaking up motorway miles, V40 is just the job. The driving position is excellent, there's Scandinavian attention to detail to the dash and the ride is comfortable. It's not so good on A-roads, where it lacks the agility and pace of German rivals.
Of the petrol engines, only the 2.0, 2.0T and T4 are worth looking at. The others struggle - especially when it's fully loaded. The same goes for the diesels: the 1.9 with 115bhp is the best of the four. The rest are old fashioned, noisy and best avoided.
The load area isn't as cavernous as older Volvos, but still large enough to take care of all but the biggest DIY jobs. Cars from 2000 have the best build quality and better equipment, though it's worth seeking out cars with optional Comfort, Audio, Winter and Luxury packs for added comfort.