Volvo Cars introduced the first generation Volvo S40 (Saloon) and V40 (Versatility/estate) compact executive cars in 1995. The second generation arrived in 2004, where the new V50 station wagon replaced the V40.
First generation (1995–2004)
In the summer of 1995 Volvo released the S4/V4 series but had to change the model's name as it conflicted with Audi who had already reserved the "S4" name. The quickly renamed S40 saloon (sedan) and V40 estate (station wagon), manufactured at the NedCar factory in Holland (a pre-Ford joint venture between Volvo and Mitsubishi Motors) and based on a common platform with the Mitsubishi Carisma. The V40, with Drag coefficient of 0.32, was the first whole model to be introduced under the direction of the British designer Peter Horbury, Volvo’s Design Director, and was marketed in Australia, North and South America, and the Far East. The V40 was named the ‘Most Beautiful Estate Car in the World’ at an Italian award ceremony.
In 2001 Volvo updated the 40 Series ("Phase II"), implementing a number of technical improvements, e.g., improved engine management, direct (diesel) fuel injection, extra safety features, larger brake discs, new front suspension and steering, revised rear suspension, larger tires and a widening of the track width. A minor facelift gave l more...
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