Originally conceived as Volvo's entry level luxury, the S40 sedan and wagon were hoped to draw new, younger consumers into Ford's luxury brand fold.

The introduction of Volvo's new C30, however, has helped to create a situation where the S40 sedan is now redundant. The C30 has now taken the reins as Volvo's entry level fighter, and with its S60 and S80 sedans so close in size, it no longer makes sense for Volvo to have a 3 sedan lineup.

Instead, the more likely scenario for the automaker's next model lineup would be the C30 as its smallest, followed by a downsized S60, and then largest S80. Wagon lineup would remain the same with the V50 and V70, as well as the coupe/cabriolet C70, and Volvo's "soft road" XC70 and XC 90

Our take? Volvo may be right if it follows through with this plan. The S40 was never a match for its seeming competitors, i.e. 3-series, C-class, etc. It was never funky or cool enough to be draw for those who were considering anything else either.


via Kicking Tires