IT’S not so easy to take in the huge strides made by Volvo with its S40 saloon. The early cars were below what was expected from the Swedish manufacturers, but the S40 has evolved into a competent and intriguing alternative to the top vehicles in the competitive family saloon category.

The range is fairly wide and includes one of Volvo’s remarkable DRIVe variants with very low emissions and fuel consumption.

Incidentally, Volvo is now looking forward to a second generation of the DRIVe version of the S40 and other models, which will feature the new start/stop technology that automatically switches off the engine when the car is at a standstill and further cuts emissions.

However, for the present, the more conventional S40s are a draw for buyers, with the 2.0-litre diesel being a favourite. The model is solidly made and easy on the eye.

It is good value too and boasts firstrate safety features, generous equipment and, above all, is a great drive, particularly in sports R Design trim.

The sports model has a racy look and firmer suspension, which means better body control, though the ride comfort does suffer on bad surfaces.

Generally, however, the ride is a comfortable one with the car’s composure well maintained and at its best on the fast open road.

The stability impresses while negotiating tight bends, when there is virtually no body roll.

Along with the sportier suspension comes sharper handling and a positive steering feel, which is fed to the driver through a chunky and grippy leather steering wheel.

With 136PS at its command, the S40’s motor packs a tidy punch with overtaking wallop that some rivals don’t have at their disposal. The optional six-speed power shift will add a dimension for the driver who prefers the smoothness of automatic transmission but who wants to stir the eager engine to greater things when the need arises.

The sporting character of this rather individual car is not overdone, though, and along with the good performance is a fusion of family values that will be much appreciated.

It is a quiet ride – better than earlier turbo-diesels. Interior space is good, with a roomy and easy-to-live-with cabin and decent legroom in the rear, with ample room for three.

The generous-sized boot will hold the family luggage, though the opening is small and must compromise the car’s appeal to some.

The interior oozes quality with the R Design SE Sport boasting an attractive two-tone leather/suede upholstery.

The seats are comfortable and supportive and the driver, who can arrive at an excellent position, has push control buttons grouped neatly together in the slim and space-saving console. The buttons are comparatively small but drivers will quickly get accustomed to them.

All the S40 cars are well equipped, with the base model having alloy wheels, climate control, four electric windows and cruise control. The SE has leather and the SE Sport gets a CD changer.

As one expects from Volvo, safety is paramount and the high standards are underlined by the car’s excellent performance in Euro NCAP tests.

AT-A-GLANCE Volvo S40 2.0D R-Design SE Sport saloon.

Price: £21,255.

Top speed: 127mph.

0-62mph: 8.9 seconds.

Fuel: 48.7mpg (combined figure).

Emissions C02 (g/km): 153.

Verdict: Great to drive, safe, refined, well equipped, individual and strong on image.