Although sharing its platform with Mazda’s “3” and Ford’s Focus, the S40 retains a clear Volvo identity underscored by excellent on-road behaviour and efficient station wagon packaging. The V50 scores by having smooth-performing five-cylinder Volvo engines across the lineup, along with design cues like the floating centre console that help make it something special. Strong mid-range torque and outstanding fuel economy feature in the five-speed auto-only D5 turbodiesel. Its 2.4-litre engine develops 132kW/350Nm and standard equipment closely matches the V50 S, with six airbags, traction control, ABS, alloys, automatic climate control, cruise control, trip computer and six-speaker CD audio.