Volvo V40
If there’s one thing Volvo does well, it’s estate cars. The Swedish motoring giants simply have the knack for this type of auto and have produced some true greats over the years. The V40 is one of them- a medium sized family car that boats impressive levels of reliability and practicality. While there might be an array of outlandish and boisterous estates from other manufacturers, the V40 proves that taking the sensible option can have excellent results.
Released in 1995, the V40 was part of the rejuvenated line-up that also included the S40 saloon. The 5 door estate quickly found a large fan base, and had some excellent sales figures until it was replaced with the V50 in 2004. Available in 3 different trim levels, there’s certainly no lack of appeal, and savvy buyers will have no trouble finding a bargain used version.
From the outside it’s a conservative looking car that defined the solid image Volvo tried to promote at the time. It’s not at all ugly, but there’s really not much to get excited about either. The interior is also rather unadventurous but is seriously comfortable and laid out in a logical fashion. With a whole heap of cabin space, both long and short journeys are a breeze, and you also get a decent amount of equipment. The cockpit is a tactile environment full of chunky buttons and easy to read dials. Another plus point is the huge boot which will take anything from luggage to shopping bags and even rubbish for trips to the dump.
The best way to sum up the V40s driving experience is as a ‘cruiser’. It’s phenomenal on the motorway and can keep going for what feels like forever. However the excellent chassis is also capable in the corners and has a good amount of grip on tap. There are loads of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, with later variants especially being more powerful and economical. The V40 won’t break any speed records, but neither will it be left behind at a green light.
Shopping for second hand autos at Motors.co.uk is by far the best way to uncover an absolute bargain. With thousands of different cars for sale at seriously reduced prices, it’s incredibly easy to get the great deal you’ve been looking for. A used Volvo V40 won’t break the bank and will be an exceptional workhorse for family and executives alike.
What you get with the Volvo V40 then is a car that’s excellent for everyday family life. It’s spacious, practical and very easy to drive. Other estates might go all out in an attempt to impress with design, but what the Volvo lacks in eye candy it more than makes up for in driving experience and overall value. Yes it’s sensible, but when it comes to motoring on a budget, sometimes a good ‘old reliable’ is exactly what you need.