THE VOLVO V60 Cross Country is a more rugged and versatile version of the Swedish car firm's regular V60 estate.

The most significant modification is a 65mm raised ride height when compared to the standard model, with the enhanced ground clearance offering more off-roading potential.

The Cross Country is out to net sales from those who have an active lifestyle and reflects many of the traditional Volvo characteristics.

The brand has stuck to its tradition despite passing through many hands recently and now being owned by the Chinese company Geely Automobile.

The V60 Cross Country is solid, chunky, well-made and boasts a sweeping modern look. It has some distinctive, stand-out features including a nicely sculpted bonnet, matt grey honeycomb grille and silver skid plates. Trendy headlamps wrap around into the body sides, while the rear has a rakish slant.

Behind the wheel, you might expect more body roll due to the increased height of the vehicle. But, in reality, the Cross Country doesn't feel vastly different to the standard V60 on which it was based, which speaks volumes for its handling capabilities.

Indeed, its road-holding is very assured, while the steering is precise.

Even when the car is pushed a bit harder, the quality of the ride remains comfortable.

Meanwhile, the cabin is well insulted from road and wind noise, although the sound of the engine isn't too easy on the ear under heavy acceleration, although the noise soon fades once the car gets up-to-speed. It pulls smoothly and barely whispers at cruising speed.

Inside, the car features cloth or leather seats depending on the trim level.

The cabin is clutter-free and straightforward, with clear dials and easy-to-use instruments, including many on a centre stack.

Technology includes a seven-inch colour display screen featuring sat nav.

The car comes with DAB radio, air conditioning, rear parking cameras and a range of other equipment.

In the recent cold snap, the car's heated seats added an extra degree of comfort.

There's also plenty of room inside, with powered seats offering plenty of adjustment for the driver. Meanwhile, three adults can fit in the back quite easily.

Power is from Volvo's class-leading Drive-E four-cylinder diesel engines on front-wheel-drive models. In this car, which came equipped with eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, the 0-62mph sprint was achievable in 7.8 seconds.

The car's fuel economy is also hugely impressive, with figures of 61.1mpg combined.

The car's punchy performance, excellent economy and ability to devour rough tracks littered with potholes make it an attractive option for people with an active lifestyle.

Volvo V60 Cross Country D4 Geartronic Lux Nav

Price: £34,995 on the road or £42,120 with options as tested

Mechanical:190bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 8-speed automatic gearbox

Max Speed: 130mph

0-62mph: 7.8 seconds

Combined MPG: 61.4

Insurance Group: 29

C02 emissions: 120g/km

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Will's ratings

PERFORMANCE: 4

ECONOMY: 5

RIDE/HANDLING: 4

SPACE: 5

EQUIPMENT: 5

SECURITY: 4

VALUE: 4

OVERALL: 4