Diesel examples of the Volvo V70 make the most sense, because they deliver much more pulling power than the petrol models.

Our favourite is the 136bhp 2.0 D3 ES, which has plenty of grunt but returns decent fuel economy. However, if fuel economy is your main concern, it's worth checking out the DRIVe model introduced in 2009. Using a 1.6-litre engine, it delivered more than 62mpg at launch; later cars were even greener. The 163bhp 2.4D and 185bhp D5 were updated in 2009, improving fuel economy and emissions. The D5 also gained an extra 20bhp.

Of the petrol models, the 2.5-litre T5 is the most rounded. It develops 200bhp (231bhp from 2009) and provides punchy performance. There's also a rare 238bhp 3.2-litre V6, which was dropped in 2009, and a 3.0-litre turbo V6 T6, available with only four-wheel drive. Both come with automatic gearboxes. An entry-level 148bhp 2.0-litre petrol was introduced in 2008, but it was underpowered and was dropped in 2009.

ES models come with alloys, electric windows all-round, MP3/CD player and dual-zone climate control. SE spec adds leather upholstery, Bluetooth and an upgraded stereo. SE Lux adds satellite-navigation and an electrically powered driver's seat, while R-Design cars get sportier internal and external trim.

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