The VOLVO S40 (1996-04) 4DR SALOON 2.0T SPORT is a compact four-door saloon offering a smart, comfortable alternative to a family hatchback. In the UK used-car market, it sits among practical small saloons, with a traditional boot and a more upmarket feel than many everyday family cars of its era. mycarcheck.com checks cover nine look-ups and five cars, so the figures are only a small snapshot. They show an average private-sale value of £400, recorded mileage of 118,000 miles and annual use of 3,000 miles. Cars averaged about five previous keepers, making paperwork and condition worth checking carefully before purchase. The 2.0T Sport suits commuters or couples wanting a comfortable car with punch for overtaking; it can serve a family, though it is less versatile than a hatchback. Its restrained styling, safety-minded image and turbo power help it stand apart from class rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Vectra.