Volvo S60 Saloon 2000 - Present

With the S60 Volvo has ventured into the world of the Executive Saloon. An already bursting forecourt of talent boasting the A4, Passat, Accord, 3-Series and C-Class to name a few. Volvo will need to work hard to turn heads here.

The engines start off with an impressive 2.0 litre turbo-charged unit that delivers 140 mph and 0-60 in 8.8 seconds. By anybody's standards a great start point. From here there's not a huge amount to go to get to the top of the range with the T5. It's equipped with a 2.3 litre turbocharged powerplant that manages 155 mph and 0-60 in 6.8 seconds. In addition a 2.4 litre LPG and petrol unit is also available across the model range. None of the petrol options delivers great fuel consumption figures, but they are respectable enough at around 30 mpg.

There are two suspension settings - designed for either comfort or sports handling. The S60's wide stance engenders a feeling of security in fast tight corners and is sure footed in pretty much all conditions, feeling as if the wheels as magnetically attracted to the road. The power steering is a little over zealous with such a well balanced car and detracts from the feel and driving sensation. At higher speeds the cabin remains quiet, wind and road noise being very well damped and the diesel engine only disturbing the peace when pushed hard, a satisfying sound.

The S60 is an extremely spacious car offering plenty of leg and head room both in the front and back of the car. The visibility is good all round for the driver and although the back seats are a little low the rear passengers get a decent view too. The boot is a good size and the split rear seats mean that transporting large objects is something that you can commit to with confidence.

Being a Volvo there's no surprise that the S60 scored well in its NCAP crash tests (four stars) and attained an overall rating of 82% for overall crash safety - aided by standard front and side airbags.

The Volvo S60 won't be everybody's choice of Executive Saloon but it's in the wing mirror of it's rivals and asking questions of their drivers.

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