First seen earlier this month, the new range features a curvier exterior, redesigned interior and standard features including outside temperature gauge, all-round electric windows, side airbags and ABS brakes.

The same option packs introduced on the 40 series become available, plus SE and CD trim levels, ranging from £400 for the winter pack to £5,150 for the CD which includes leather, air conditioning, cruise control and wood trim. On the security front, the new models feature reinforced rotating lock cylinders and deadlocks activated by remote control central locking, a new alarm and transponder immobiliser.

Prices: S70 (Saloon): 2.0 10v £18,400, 2.5 10v £19,100, 2.5 20v £20,500, 2.5 LPT £22,800, T5 £24,300, TDI £22,000. V70 (Estate): 2.0 10v £19,400, 2.5 10v £20,100, 2.5 20v £21,500, 2.5 LPT £23,800, T5 £25,300, AWD £27,900, TDI £23,000.