This is the all-new Volvo S60, the premium compact executive market is dominated by the BMW 3 Series followed by the Audi A4 and Mercedes C Class. The previous generation S60 had been around since 2011 and was refreshed in 2014 with minor styling updates. In actuality, the S60 was based on a chassis first introduced in 2000, so it’s fair to say it was ripe for change. And the all-new, third generation S60 is radically changed, and for the better. It borrows many of the new exterior and interior styling cues first seen on the V90.

The all-new Volvo S60 will be the first model to be offered with no diesel option. So, instead, Volvo will offer one petrol engine, two of which will be a 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines available in two power derivatives ranging from 188bhp, 247bhp. The remaining two power derivatives will be plug-in hybrid, supercharged versions, delivering 336bhp and 395bhp. Finally, a Polestar edition will seal the performance deal with 410bhp, uprated suspension, brakes and alloy wheels and in your face R-Design styling. These plug-in hybrids will pair a 10.8kWh battery with an electric motor that will rest on the rear axle, for better weight distribution. They will also offer 30 miles of pure electric drive, but its the instant acceleration offered over the standard turbo engines that is the real draw. Volvo is also saying that the new S60 will offer a sportier drive and be able to take on the BMW 3 Series. But as much as we detest the 3 Series even we have to admit the BMW will take some beating and then some. The latest active and passive safety technologies will be offered so expect to see exotic technology such as Pilot Assist, it combines Level-2 semi-autonomous driving with steering assist, acceleration-deceleration, and braking on motorway journeys at speeds of up to 80mph. Also, expect to see pedestrian impact safety technologies most probably fitted as standard. And of course the technologies are not confined to safety, Volvo will also offer the latest in-car infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, most of which will be expensive optional extras. The S60 will be retail ready bin in the UK by May 2019, prices are expected to start from £30k for entry-level models.