The Volvo S40 looks and feels like a sports sedan, and the nearly identical Volvo V50 runs like a sport wagon. Enhancing their sporting credentials is the availability of a five-speed manual transmission for base models, and a six-speed manual for the turbocharged T5 with all-wheel drive.

The S40 sedan and V50 wagon are compact cars, yet they seat four in reasonable comfort, and the compact exterior dimensions make them easy to park. They are designed to be extremely safe, with active and passive safety features to help drivers avoid accidents, then protect them if there is a crash.

The V50 wagon drives just like the S40 sedan. It's nearly identical in size, measuring less than two inches longer in overall length. In fact, the S40 sedan and V50 wagon are nearly identical in every way. Both seat five passengers. Front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available.

On the open road, these cars are stable and relaxed. They hold their own with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and other cars in this class, even at high speeds. They are attractive cars, and inside they offer clean, Scandinavian elegance.

The 2.4i models feature a five-cylinder engine that produces strong torque. As a result, they deliver decent acceleration performance. They also offer a good balance between ride comfort and handling response, with a suspension that's firm but not jarring. The brakes are excellent. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, while Volvo's five-speed Geartronic automatic is optional. The 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine generates 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque.

T5 models feature a turbocharged engine that is wonderfully smooth and responsive, delivering acceleration that is both even and exhilarating. The five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission works as well as any in this class. The T5 can be equipped with all-wheel drive for an extra element of performance or all-weather security; with AWD a six-speed manual is standard and the five-speed automatic an option. The T5 engine is a slightly larger 2.5-liter turbocharged version of the five-cylinder engine. Output increases to 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The T5 sedan comes only with the five-speed automatic transmission.

T5 models feature what Volvo calls R-Design: a unique grille with matte silver outline and R-Design logo, a sport body kit with color-coordinated side skirts and spoilers, two-tone Flextech/leather seats, aluminum sport pedals, sport shift knob, R-Design inlays, blue-faced instruments, and sport steering wheel.

2010 Volvo S40 and V50 models now come with electronic climate control and adjustable head restraints, but some other previously standard equipment has been made optional in order to reduce the entry-level price.

The Volvo S40 was launched as a 2004 model, the V50 joined the line for 2005. The styling was revised for 2008. There are no major changes for 2010.