VOLVO might have built its reputation on sensible though arguably rather staid attributes like safety, reliability and consistency, but in recent years the company has started to demonstrate a little more flair and passion.

It started with the rather individual C30, a kind of spiritual successor of the iconic P1800 and continued with the XC60 SUV, which to my mind is by far and away the best vehicle in its class.

Its latest surprise is the S60 saloon.

Volvo's compact executive saloon in the shape of the last generation S60 was always one of those cars that flattered to deceive.

Yes, it wasn't bad to look at and was certainly up there in the premium segment but it failed to match its German rivals in many respects and to me will always be remembered for having a ludicrously large turning circle - to the point where it could probably have been bettered by a huge SUV towing an exceptionally long caravan.

The latest S60 not only looks classy and modern but most importantly the focus has been on producing a decent driver's car.

It delivers a drive that really should see it far better placed to take on premium competitors like BMW's 3 Series, the Audi A4 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

It feels, stiff, sturdy and agile, with plenty of feel and feedback for the more demanding driver.

Inevitably there is a little compromising of ride quality, but to be fair this is only an issue over the most uneven of surfaces.

Interior styling and equipment are also winners as far as the S60 is concerned.

Volvo's floating centre console adds a touch of Scandinavian minimalist style while the manufacturer's switchgear has come on leaps and bounds compared to models of just a few years back where it was starting to look severely dated.

The sat nav on this car also had more of a cutting edge feel and thankfully Volvo have now dispensed with a pop-up style sitting on top of the dashboard in favour of a system that's integrated into the centre console.

One of the S60's big strengths is space. The cabin is roomy and rear seat passengers are generously catered for when it comes to legroom and the ability to stretch out.

It also has a big boot that would satisfy most families' carrying needs with ease.