Volvo S40

This Volvo S40 is a clean break from the model that ran from 1996-2004. Whereas the old car picked up a slightly dowdy image by the end of its life, this model is stylish and well proportioned. It has some unique touches too – especially inside thanks to its clever ‘floating’ centre console – while the chunky styling gives an air of solidity. It uses the same platform as the Ford Focus so is compo

A family hatch-sized car with premium saloon ambitions, the four-door Volvo S40 is an often overlooked alternative choice

"The Volvo S40 has a beautifully designed interior and there’s plenty of variety in the range, but it’s quite expensive and as it’s a saloon it lacks the practicality of rival hatchbacks."