Especially so in the old Volvo S40. But not any more. The all-new model is based on the platform of the forthcoming Ford Focus and what a difference it makes. I can't quite believe what I'm feeling as I punt Volvo's new S40 along some very three-dimensional Swedish backroads on the way back from a thrash around a handling circuit. Here's a Volvo which feels like Volvos have looked for some time; lithe, alert, keen and crisp. A car with Focus-like dynamics and Volvo quality... it's an appealing proposition.

The two top models use S60-ish five-cylinder engines. Quickest is the 2.5-litre T5, using the S60R unit but more gently turbocharged, reducing power to 217bhp and turbo lag to near-disappearance. Next down is a naturally-aspirated 2.4 of 170bhp; there will also be other smaller petrol engines and turbodiesels.

Both five-pots spin with tuneful five-cylinder smoothness, but the T5 is the pick because it blends considerable ultimate urge with a quick throttle response and a marvellous ability to amble in high gears without letting the fire go out.

The stub-tailed S40 looks agile, and is; the steering I've mentioned, but the T5 with its sports suspension (stiff dampers and anti-roll bars, broader rubber but standard springs) feels especially planted if less absorbent of sharp road-edges. The regular-suspension 2.4 is softer, lighter in the helm and more driftable, but it too involves the driver like Volvos never used to do. One downside in the T5, though, is that at the 149mph max on Volvo's banked test track its steering starts to feel a touch hypersensitive. This is unlikely to be a real-world issue.

Competitive on interior space, the S40's cabin design is unlike anything we've seen before. The design team, led by Brit Guy Burgoyn, was inspired by 'designer' durables and the end result is far chicer than you can see in the small picture to the left.

This is a classily-finished, neatly-detailed car that also drives superbly; Volvo has cracked it at last.