VOLVO has always been a car for the countryman, hence the popularity of its Cross Country range of models.

These, as can be expected, are tough sports wagons for everyday driving.

There are all-wheel drive versions, but the Cross Country range has options leaning towards sure-footed front-wheel-drive motoring with the accent of comfort and practicality.

And right in the front line is Volvo's popular V60 Cross Country which has a sound customer following.

The estate body reflects the traditional Volvo style cues of chunky, exceptionally well-made looks with a sweeping modern line that is driving the brand to new heights.

Reflecting Volvo's Scandinavian heritage and love of nature and adventure, this model provides a connected yet comfortable driving experience with the freedom to explore new but not too adventurous horizons.

It is out to net sales from those who have an active lifestyle and features design cues that heighten the nature of the car.

Both the S60 Cross Country saloon and V60 Cross Country wagon sport an additional 65mm of ground clearance over the models they are based on.

Skid plates front and rear, side scuff plates and bumper extenders convey an imposing, muscular presence that underlies its capable nature, while integrated tailpipes reflect its sporty side.

Other design cues such as the gloss black window trim and door mirrors, unique front grille and unique alloy wheels, available up to 19", complement the rest of the exterior styling.

Power is from Volvo's class-leading Drive-E four-cylinder diesel engines on front-wheel- drive models and in this car, equipped with eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, 130mph was on the cards with a 0-62mph sprint of 7.8 seconds.

And the economy figures are a shining example of how Volvo engineering is the envy of others with 61.1mpg on the combined cycle.

Volvo, once fought for its very existence but is now back with a vengeance.

It was the first premium brand to offer increased all-road capability and styling on its estates as far back as 1997 when it introduced the V70 Cross Country, creating a whole new type of car experience that has since captured the imagination of the motoring public.

Not quite the car to choose for mug-plugging, but the heightened ground clearance is a definite boon when traversing rough tracks littered with potholes.