Well, the gas mileage for my 2001 V40 is not too bad: about 23-25 mpg (daily rush hour freeway and downtown miles). I am not sure how it would be after the break-in period-- I finally past the 3500 mile mark today!! Some say it would get better gas mileage after break-in, but I really doubt would it be the case for me-- because I can't wait to feel the real "muscle" of my V40...

Anyway, I am quite satisfied with my V40 so far, except for two complaints and two minor defects found on my car: The major complaint-- I don't like its speakers at all (though I've already had 'premium' speaker upgrade), so I am looking for after market replacements now. (The audio preference is very subjective, so it might not be true for you.) The other complaint is regarding its "not so sporty" sport package-- although the sports steeling wheel feels pretty good and the fog lights are excellent, Volvo should at least give us 16" wheels to make it be a real SPORT package. 15" wheels are definitely too soft. As for the defects, first is the loosen antenna base on the roof and the other is the slightly off-centered steeling wheel. I've scheduled an appointment with my dealer to fix those problems and get the first oil change (yes, I won't wait till the Volvo recommended 7500 oil change time) next week. Hope that they don't need to remove the ceiling to fix the antenna problem.

My suggestion? I chose V40 after test driving and comparing it with BMW 323, Audi A4, and VW Passat wagons months ago and will make the same choice again-- if you ask for my answer today.