THE Volvo S80 D5 SE Lux is the Swedish car giant's executive saloon and it comes with dimensions not dissimilar to the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series.

It also enjoys a fairly recent new look which has brought with it some styling improvements and further updates in drive-trains that should help to build further on its already reasonably successful platform.

With a neat saloon bodyshape and sleek, curvaceous exterior, the S80 executive saloon is about as far removed from that dismal traditional image of that old boxy Volvo estate as it's possible to get.

The mid life refresh for the S80 was made up of several small changes that Volvo believes add up to a big difference.

Taking up a slightly lower and wider stance gives the model a more purposeful precence on the road and, combined with a more imposing front end, including a more substantial badge, the S80 keeps pace with the executive styling of its German competitors.

The inside story includes changes to the trim including a smarter set of dials. There is also a new steering wheel and a new gear lever, all very much more in keeping with the trendy Scandinavian design theme.

The makers do point out that the S80 should remain secure at all times courtesy of a volume and level sensitive alarm system and immobiliser. Delayed lighting and a panic alarm built into the key fob also aid security.

New aluminium dials are also present on the facia. A pop-up display for the satellite navigation limits clutter and the floating centre console, well received by newcomers to the marque, features one of the most ergonomic button arrangements around which proved a veritable joy to use.

The spacious cabin delivered a high level of comfort for driver and front and rear passangers. The seats are well padded, shapely and supportive while requirements such as cup-holders, a ticketholder and pass holder in the windscreen and ventilation for rear passengers in the door pillars are met.

Air con comes as standard, but ventilated leather, massage function, adaptive cruise control and speed sensitive steering are all available to add to the luxury.

The new D5 2.4-litre five cylinder diesel engine is extremely refined and combines agreeably with the well insulated cabin to offer a very quiet ride in all parts.

Safety has always been one of Volvo's key selling points and the S80 does not disappoint. A huge array of preventative and protective systems are standard across the range. There is an intelligent driver information system to hand while adaptive brake lights warn following drivers of hard braking ahead.

A full ESP system is also standard featuring advanced traction control and a host of braking assist programmes while, in the event of a crash passengers are protected by a side impact system while driver and front passenger also get whiplash protection, plus copious airbags help to make the S80 one of the safest executive saloons around.

There's no shortage of space inside the S80. Head and legroom are generous and the cabin will comfortably seat five adults while there is a large boot to hand for holiday makers and weekenders.

Overall, the Volvo S80 is a well put together, generously speced saloon which handles exceedingly well whether linking together some corners or smoothly cruising the motorway.