The mid-size saloon sector is one of the most hard fought over battlegrounds in the automotive industry - right at the very top you have the likes of the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4 battling for top honours and then comes the unseemly fight for the runner-up positions by Volvo's S60, the Saab 9-3 and the Alfa Romeo 159. It isn't pretty.
But for Volvo, the S60 is one of its most important cars, bringing in a lot of cash that it desperately needs to survive - especially so now that Ford has cut loose and sold the company to the Chinese.
The latest S60 is a very important car, then - and far from shying away from the battle, Volvo insists it has premium pretensions and faces the enemy head on. Based on the platform of the new S80, albeit somewhat trimmed down to size, the S60 has been marketed since its beginning as a sportier Volvo, which could see the Swedish manufacturer moving into even more dangerous territory.
The interior is a big step forward for Volvo, and whilst it still falls short of feeling overtly luxurious, it remains solidly constructed and the controls have been made easier to use. The Volvo is particularly spacious for its class - there is plenty of room in the front and back of the car and the boot is quite commodious as well, providing you with all the room you can get this side of an estate.
Volvo insists the S60 is dynamic and the driving experience is admittedly better than it was, but it does lack the final edge of those at the top of the class. The S60 feels capable through corners and has plenty of grip but isn't likely to leave you with a big grin on your face. The character of the S60 is very dependent on the engine you choose to go with it - the diesels are not particularly refined, but Volvo claims they'll manage over 50mpg.
Comfort has taken a predictable step backwards with the change in emphasis - the ride is adequate on smooth surfaces, but does get unsettled on rougher roads. It is by no means uncomfortable, but it is a shame that Volvo feels it has to go in this direction because comfort was a particular strength, and cruising ability should not be underestimated.