Volvo has updated its two most popular models with the introduction of the 2008 model-year S40 saloon and V50 wagon. Designed to match the larger S80 sedan, the S40 now features a sharper nose and chrome framed ‘egg-crate’ grille with a much larger Volvo badge. New headlights with clear lenses and an enlarged single air intake mark the visual changes up front, while at the rear is a new tail light design that features LED highlights as well as a new bumper and sporty exhaust tip.

52624_e_vol_.jpg

52624_e_vol_.jpg

The V50 wagon now matches the recently revealed Volvo V70 estate, thanks to a sportier new grille and headlamp layout plus a distinctive three-part front air intake. And, like the S40, the wagon features Volvo’s deep-set chrome-collared grille and larger Volvo badge. Rear styling now includes slimmer tail light units that are equipped with LED brake lights, as well as a new boot handle, restyled bumper and a revised pair of exhaust pipes.

Inside, both cars get more storage with larger cup holders and an elongated armrest storage bin. Other changes include more dynamically styled instrument panels for the T5 and D5 models, Dynaudio speakers for the Premium Sound system, a new hard drive-based RTI road traffic information and satellite navigation system and a redesigned remote key fob with Auto Open and Auto Close for all side windows and sunroof.

The new Volvo S40 and V50 also benefit from an enhanced powertrain offer. The D5 diesel engine will be available with a six-speed manual transmission that accommodates the engine’s higher torque output of 400Nm compared to the 350Nm of the automatic gearbox. The manual version will be available later in the year and is fully compliant with anticipated stringent Euro V emission regulations. Finally, the turbo-charged T5 model enjoys a 10 hp increase, taking total output to a full 230bhp.

52624_b_vol_.jpg

52624_b_vol_.jpg

52624_c_vol_.jpg

52624_c_vol_.jpg

52624vol_.jpg

52624vol_.jpg

52624_d_vol_.jpg

52624_d_vol_.jpg

52624_f_vol_.jpg

52624_f_vol_.jpg

52624_g_vol_.jpg

52624_g_vol_.jpg