After haunting the 700-900 side, this is my first trip to AWD land. Thinking of a later-model C30 / S40 / V50, after two long years with no Volvo.

Is there anything for sked maintenance and "pop-up" repair problems to differentiate between the three models?

My interests run toward a base engine and automatic transmission, but I can be persuaded if you wish to weigh in. We are a two-person household with little-used rear seats, and not even a dog to carry.

And having had a 945T, the care and feeding of a turbo would not frighten me off, if it was comparably reliable.

The 5 cyl engines are quite good. The turbo for the 5 cyl is usually a light pressure version and will last as long as the engine.

Regular maintenance and synthetic engine oil is needed. Regular oil tends to help clog up the oil breather system (PCV).

Obviously, newer is better except in the larger models (S80, XC70, XC90) which you are avoiding anyway.

The engine bay is quite crowded in your 3 choices, and gets even worse with the 3.2L engines.

The timing belt lasts longer these days, up to 120K or more depending on model and version. I believe CT is the same as the CA versions.

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My name is Klaus and I am a V♂lv♂holic

Not sure what years the OP is considering, but our '01 S40 w/ 183,000 miles has been a decent car for my daughter. Has quirks of any 13 year old car, but still pretty solid.

Re: "I believe CT is the same as the CA versions"
No, we're still 49-state.
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"Differences of opinions should be tolerated, but not if they're too different' - Sharon Craig