WE are all aware that cars - both big and small - are becoming more economical. But a five-seater saloon that will top 70mpg? Come on!

That's the official combined consumption for the Volvo S60 D3.

Yes, I know no one ever gets near the claimed figure, but even allowing for a translation to real world conditions I managed an average of around the 54mpg mark, which is pretty impressive for a reasonably swift executive saloon.

Such miserly thirst is thrown into stark contrast with the car's appearance.

In R-Design guise the Volvo casts off any hint of black lab stuffiness with racy alloys, deep body crease lines, body-colour painted bumpers and smart leather seating with R-Design logos.

For a couple of decades Volvo relied on trusty VW diesels to keep the firm in touch with the demands of business users, but more recently the Swedes have had their own tax-friendly 2.0-litre turbo, four cylinder diesel engine which quite literally trounces the opposition.

In terms of torque, refinement and economy - the three chief qualities by which oil-burners are judged - this Volvo is in a league of its own.

With a high pressure common-rail injection system it delivers immediate response with little sign of the harshness frequently associated with diesel engines. Sixty-two mph comes up in under eight seconds and maximum is 134mph. But it is the relaxed manner in which the performance is delivered that will endear the Volvo to owners.

Ride and handling isn't quite up to the best Mercedes and Audi can achieve - there's a slight shortfall in dynamism and sensitivity. Nevertheless, the S60 corners and rides safely and securely and exhibits no nasty traits...it's just not as communicative or settled as best of breed.

Yet its unusual quietness, and excellent seating together with the strong performance make it an easy car in which to cover long distances. And the six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission complements the car's relaxed character.

Ultimately the front drive S60 understeers when pushed hard into bends but at more normal speeds it reacts neutrally and goes exactly where it is pointed.

Designed to look more like a coupe in profile form, the four-door S60 has a scalloped roofline which inevitably affects headroom in the rear. Those who stand more than six foot tall will have to duck when climbing in and their heads are likely to be close to the roof lining.

Another consequence of the racy lines is a rather small boot compared with the opposition. It can carry just 385 litres of cargo and is quite shallow.

Volvo range includes the V60 semi-estate with lifting rear tailgate for those who require greater versatility.

The cabin is snug, well thought-out and stylishly executed using high grade plastics and solid switchgear which give an impression of longevity and sturdiness. Materials used are tactile and pleasing to the eye.

The R-Design front seats are among the most supportive and comfortable available.