2008 Volvo S40 Unveiled

It’s really hard to tell the difference between the just-introduced 2008 Volvo S40 and the current model. There are very slight changes to the front and rear ends, headlights and taillights, plus a lower stance; all are supposed to make the vehicle look like the new S80. OK, if you say so, Volvo. It looks the same to us.

There is supposedly more interior storage space in the doors and center stack. The redesigned doors even add space for additional speakers for the optional high-end audio system. There are also new optional interior touchups, like light oak panel covering and new upholstery colors. An auxiliary audio input is now standard, and USB and iPod connectors can be added as accessories.

Engine choices remain a 170-hp inline-five-cylinder for the base model and a turbocharged version in the T5 that makes 230 hp, which is 10 more hp than the engine in the previous T5 generated.

Volvo’s new blind spot information system will also be available as an option.

Prices and a U.S. on-sale date have not been announced. More photos, including a comparison between the 2007 and 2008 models, are below.