LEADING the way with pioneering safety features may have long been a compelling reason to consider buying Volvo cars, but there's another factor that sets the brand apart from the pack.

It's quite simply called class, and while others may share that quality they don't necessarily display the same understated essence of distinction.

When the Swedish brand originally launched the V40, it wasn't especially familiar with the five-door premium hatchback scene - now the model tops the company's UK sales chart.

The fact that the V40 oozes quality, is bursting with technology and boasts the headline figures to make big bucks decision-makers sit up and take notice has proved a principal factor.

So too though was last year's arrival of engines from Volvo's Drive-E powertrain family, offering a compelling blend of driveability and low CO2 emissions.

Among the best is the D4 turbodiesel used in the tested SE Lux Nav variant and mated to an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

With getting too technical it features something called i-ART technology, a world-first which makes sure the ideal amount of fuel is injected during each combustion cycle.

The upshot is that emissions are down to 99g/km, making this model free of road tax, not to mention the potential for returning a fraction less than 75 miles per gallon.

Scandinavian style is everywhere with the V40. Low, sleek and sporty, it's one of those cars that gives off an instant feelgood factor the moment you step inside the cabin.

You sit in, rather than on, the seats, there's a floating centre console, panoramic glass roof and instrument panel that alters its colour depending on the mode set by the driver - Eco in green and Elegance in amber for a relaxing drive, while Performance throbs in a bright red and displays a power meter and digital speed read-out.

Interior space for four is excellent, even for a tall rear passenger behind a fully slid back driver's seat, though it's a tight squeeze in the centre rear position.

It's well kitted out as well, standard features including City Safety technology, pedestrian airbag, Bluetooth with music streaming, sound system with five-inch colour screen, electronic climate control, 16-inch alloys, dynamic stability and traction control, power windows and leather steering wheel.

The V40 range is available from £18,995, though the tested model costs £27,770 and came with almost £10,000 worth of options and accessories, bumping the tab up to £37,220.