VOLVO was making fashionable estate cars way back when - before most people had even thought about the possibility of making load luggers trendy.

And though the brand has had something of an association with buyers in the 'older' age bracket in the intervening years the latest V60 represents a real return to form.

These days there are lots of car makers turning out sleek and stylish estates but the V60 really does stand out from the crowd.

Its lines are as perfectly proportioned as one could wish for, with echoes of its equally appealing stablemate the XC60 SUV.

Looks apart the V60 is also something of a revelation in other respects.

It's the estate version of the impressive S60 saloon, which has won plaudits-a-plenty since its launch some time back.

Volvos saloons and estates in the compact executive segment have always strived to compete with the all-conquering Germans but in reality they've struggled.

But the current S60 and V60 really are at the races when it comes to the contest now.

With both you get good looks and a car that really has that hard to quantify 'buy me' factor but crucially much work has been done to deliver a car that offers decent driving dynamics.

It delivers a drive that's engaging and rewarding and means it's well equipped to give those German rivals a real run for their money.

Build quality, fit and finish are up there at Germanic levels too but it's the excellent drive that is its defining quality.

The only criticism that might be levelled concerns its firm-ish ride but to be honest it kind of goes with the territory and in fairness it isn't that difficult to live with on a day to day basis.

The interior is classy and modern, again a break with the tradition of Volvo cabins feeling a little dated. The company has now caught up in this regard, and more - progress that's probably best summed up by the floating centre console. It might not be to all tastes but I rather like it.

Another strength 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.

And despite its curvy rear end it also has a generous amount of boot space.

Overall its yet another indicator that Volvo are certainly heading in the right direction when it comes to offering cars that are both desirable, drive well and boast genuine premium quality