TIME was when Volvo models were recognisable in the main via battleship grey livery and the decidedly sharp appearance of their make-up.

However, today's four door compact executive saloon is a million miles away from this scenario.

Steeped in Volvo style, the S60 is very much the safe and sensible family saloon which comes loaded with comfort, stacks of equipment from entry level upwards and top notch quality along with plenty of safety technology.

This sleek looking Volvo is distinctive, proudly carrying driver and passengers into a world where direct opposition includes the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

The S60 D2 SE Lux DRIVe model in the frame here shapes up very well bringing a real presence to an extremely striking front end while at the rear of the silhouette there is an attractive back lighting set up which adds further character.

Inside the story is one of comfort and quality within a cabin which delivers more space than the outgoing S60. In true Volvo fashion seating is comfortably supportive, if a little tight in the rear perhaps, and, from the driving position a neat and simply laid out dashboard shows off some clear instrumentation and easy on the eye info to keep drivers abreast of required speed, fuel situation, etc.

Volvo has always majored on quality interiors and the S60 brings a further look of class which is unique in the stylish way it presents the 'floating' centre console and instrument binnacle.

Even entry level ES models come with city safety technology that recognises pedestrians in the road ahead via a camera hidden in the rear view mirror. This clever piece of kit gives a warning to brake, and if you don't it does it for you.

In addition there is an  information centre, dynamic stability traction control, electric door mirrors, climate control, Bluetooth hands free phone system and remote audio controls for the high performance audio system.

The SE Lux model driven here adds 17-inch alloys, leather faced upholstery all round, electric driver's seat with memory and active cornering lights.

There is also rear park assist and a Bluetooth hands free phone system while buyers can also add lane-departure alert and blind spot warning options to the inventory.

On the road progress comes via a slick switching six-speed manual gearbox mated to a refined 1.6-litre diesel engine.

With power assisted steering successfully designed to inspire driver confidence and well spaced gear ratios the S60 did its work well promising an impressive 55.4mpg while plying the urban trawl and 60-plus on the motorway cruise.

Volvo DRIVe "green" cars come with all the requirements for economical driving including a stop/start system with brake energy regeneration helping to produce an impressive CO2 figure of 114g/km. Road tax is zero for the first 12 months and then £30 for each subsequent year.