Safety has always been a high priority at Volvo. Each of its models reflects the progress engineers are making toward delivering the aim of keeping occupants free from the risk of death or serious injury in any of its cars after 2020.

Four years ahead of the deadline, the V60 range is already boasting an array of advanced primary safety features. The D2 version we’ve been using has standard equipment that includes speed limiter, full side impact protection, anti-whiplash head restraints and City Safety, clever gadgetry that anticipates the likelihood of collisions happening at speeds of up to 31mph and initiates automatic emergency braking if the driver fails to react in time.

For a vehicle pitched at a price to take a competitive stance in the fleet sector, the entry-level model is an appealing package that is reassuring for company drivers who need to spend lots of time on the road. Our car has demonstrated the convenience benefits of features such as hill start assist, an electric parking brake and heated door mirrors.

Another plus point is rear parking sensors to provide help with reversing when the driver’s view is obscured, but it is a pity the system doesn’t include a rear-mounted camera linked with the satnav screen.

The V60 has shone as a trusty workhorse that ticks all the boxes for blending practicality with the most stylish load-carrier lines yet seen from a Swedish brand that can no longer be accused of building boring, boxy vehicles. Powered by a low-stressed diesel motor, it’s also proved to be exceptionally frugal for a fairly heavy car of generous proportions that makes life behind the wheel even easier by having a smooth-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission.

With returns ranging from 44mpg to 63mpg, an overall test average of 54.8mpg shows a superb return for an upscale model that’s quiet, refined and boasts very supportive seats to make it one of the most comfortable workhorses available.