IT may not be the latest car on the block but the Volvo V70 is still a very clever package with huge levels of safety built-in - always part of the Swedish company's tradition.
I recently re-acquainted myself with the big estate in top Ocean Race spec - a special model that comes out around this time every year to celebrate the company's sponsorship of sailing in Britain.
The 2.4-litre five-cylinder diesel engine is not perhaps the quietest but it's smooth enough and sounds good.
Performance in such a large body is actually good enough for plenty of fun but that's not what most buyers need one of these for.
What you get is huge family friendliness throughout the cabin, even down to 40/20/40 split fold back seats and built-in booster seats.
Comfort is excellent, except for an unsettled feel at low speeds in town, and road holding is surprisingly good.
The V70 is still one of the most desirable premium estates and so resale values are strong compared to others of a similar size.
Interior
These are built to last a lifetime with classy, durable materials throughout the cabin and among the best seats on the market.
The cabin is both big and clever, with an enormous boot, luggage nets and hooks and straps to prevent your groceries from being thrown around.
FAST FACTS
Volvo V70 Ocean Race
Price: £29,240
Mechanical: 182bhp, 2,400cc, 5cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 140mph
0-62mph: 8.4secs
Combined mpg: 43
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 172g/km
BiK rating: 24%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Audi A6