Last updated August 4, 2026
The Volvo S40 lineup starts with the 2.4i, the straightforward, comfort-focused model with a non-turbo engine and clean Scandinavian style. The T5 is the understated performance branch, pairing turbo power with a more premium cabin, while the T5 R-Design keeps that turbo performance and adds sportier suspension, bodywork, and interior details.
The Base Model trim level, represented by the 2.4i, is the simple, comfort-focused S40 with a non-turbo engine and the brand’s clean Scandinavian cabin design.
Best for: Drivers who want a tidy, upscale-feeling compact sedan without turbo performance or sporty appearance pieces.
Highlights
The Performance trim level, represented by the T5, is the understated turbo S40, combining stronger acceleration with a restrained exterior and premium cabin basics.
Best for: Drivers who want turbocharged performance without the more noticeable R-Design treatment.
Highlights
Compared with the Base Model, the T5 adds a 227-hp turbocharged engine, an automatic transmission, driver-seat memory, and richer cabin trim.
1 in stock
The Sport Styling trim level, represented by the T5 R-Design, is the more expressive S40, pairing T5 turbo power with sharper suspension tuning and distinctive R-Design details.
Best for: Drivers who like the T5’s performance and want a sportier look and more driver-focused feel.
Highlights
Over the T5, the T5 R-Design adds dynamic sport suspension, an R-Design body kit, sport-themed upholstery and controls, and a power glass moonroof while retaining the same 227-hp turbo engine.
0 in stock| Feature | Base Model | Performance | Sport Styling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Includes | 2.4i1 in stock | T5 R-Design0 in stock | |
| Power delivery | Non-turbo | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Transmission | Manual standard | Geartronic automatic | Geartronic automatic |
| Suspension character | Comfort-focused | Understated performance setup | Dynamic sport suspension |
| Exterior treatment | Clean standard styling | Restrained T5 styling | R-Design body kit |
| Cabin theme | Dalarö T-Tec | T-Tec with aluminum trim | R-Design sport cockpit |
The 2.4i was the straightforward, comfort-focused S40 in 2009–2010. It paired a 168-hp non-turbo five-cylinder with useful features such as dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and a power driver’s seat.
For 2011, the T5 was the understated turbo S40. It combined a 227-hp turbo five-cylinder and five-speed automatic with a memory driver’s seat, Bluetooth, upgraded audio, and restrained exterior styling.
R-Design identifies the sportier-looking turbo S40 sold from 2009–2011. It adds sport suspension tuning, more aggressive body trim, special upholstery, a sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and unique gauges.
The main difference is performance. The 2.4i uses a 168-hp non-turbo engine and has a more traditional, comfort-focused character. The 2011 T5 uses a 227-hp turbo engine, an automatic transmission, and a memory driver’s seat.
In the 2011 lineup, both use the same 227-hp turbo engine and automatic transmission. The T5 is more understated, while the T5 R-Design adds sport suspension tuning, a body kit, special upholstery, sport cabin details, and a moonroof.
The 2.4i is the calmer non-turbo model with 168 hp. The T5 R-Design has a 227-hp turbo engine plus sport suspension tuning, more aggressive exterior pieces, special upholstery, and a sport-themed cabin.
No. In the final U.S. lineup, both the T5 and T5 R-Design make 227 hp from the same turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder. R-Design changes the styling, cabin details, and suspension tuning rather than engine output.
The 2011 T5 is the understated choice. It has the same 227-hp turbo engine as the T5 R-Design but skips the R-Design body kit, sport suspension tuning, aluminum pedals, and more dramatic cabin treatment.
The 2.4i is the comfort-focused choice in the 2009–2010 range. It delivers the S40’s compact size, supportive cabin, climate control, and everyday features without the turbo engine or R-Design appearance pieces.
Look for a T5-based S40. The T5 and T5 R-Design use a 227-hp turbo five-cylinder, while the 2.4i has a 168-hp non-turbo engine. The R-Design does not add power over the regular T5.
The T5 R-Design has the sportiest look. On 2009–2011 models, it adds side skirts, front and rear spoilers, special upholstery, a sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and distinctive gauges.
Transmission fit changed by era. The 2010 2.4i had a standard five-speed manual, and the 2010 AWD T5 R-Design had a standard six-speed manual. The 2009 U.S. range had no manuals, and the 2011 trims were automatic-only.
The T5 R-Design adds leather and synthetic sport upholstery, a sport steering wheel, an aluminum-trimmed gear selector, aluminum pedals, and watch-dial gauges. It gives the cabin a more performance-themed appearance.