Volvo S40 available as wagon

The entry-level S40 sedan was introduced as an all-new model midway through last year. Sharing its basic parts with the Mazda3, the S40 also is available as a station wagon designated the V50.

With prices starting at about $24,000 and rising toward $30,000 once options are added, the S40 is an expensive alternative to other compact sedans. The flagship S80 sedan, C70 convertible and the XC90 SUV are still a year away from any major revisions, though the XC90 does get the option of V8 power, a first for Volvo. The S60/V70 midsize sedan and wagon remain unchanged.

-- Posted: Feb. 15, 2005