2001 Volvo S60 S review from UK and Ireland

Petrol flap fell off the second day I had the car.

Bought as an ex lease car (one owner, immaculate, 80k and FVSH) for UKP 5800 from a dealer with warranty. It represents so much car for the money it seems illegal.

The kids love the comfort, the space, the safe feel and the B pillar mounted face cooling vents (a superb touch). I love the standard equipment, the "hewn from solid rock" build quality, and the refined warble and punch from the smooth 5 cylinder engine. It's not a stunning handler, but it's competent enough for a family car. Oh and nobody makes seats like Volvo.

The car has been cheap to run, rarely returning less than 30 mpg. It has also been utterly reliable, and has build quality that matches or even eclipses the Germans, with a more pleasant image to boot. The car has had just one silly fault which the warranty paid for. Other than that, it looks, drives, and sounds like a 20,000 mile car. Doors clunk reassuringly, there is no wind or tyre roar and the interior trim doesn't emit even a hint of a squeak.

It's a subtle, classy family car which provides an attractive mix of premium sector build quality and refinement, with Ford and Vauxhall screen prices. I'd buy another tomorrow.