The new V50

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According to the company, the most distinctive and advanced feature of the new Volvo V50 is its trendy interior and fascia, which features a unique, ultra-thin centre stack inspired by the latest premium hi-fi systems, with space behind for storage.

Further innovation is provided by Volvo's new 'IDIS' – Intelligent Driver Information System – which uses advanced technology to monitor the driver's level of activity and, if maximum concentration is needed (eg when braking, turning, etc), delays any unnecessary signals and potential distractions, such as incoming telephone calls or non-essential information, until it is safer to do so.

Power takes the form of a new range of four and five cylinder engines provides plenty of power and performance combined with economy and low emissions. The choice of petrol engines starts with a 125bhp, four-cylinder 1.8, with the added luxury and refinement of two five-cylinder engines – a 170bhp, 2.4i and the range topping 2.5 turbo, T5 with 220bhp, a six-speed gearbox which has the option of electronic Haldex All Wheel Drive.

There will also be a new, four-cylinder, 136bhp, 2.0 turbo diesel engine producing 320Nm of torque with a six-speed manual gearbox. This will be available with a particulate filter during 2004.

The V50 has a 78mm longer wheelbase, up to 63mm wider track, and a 34 per cent stiffer bodyshell than the V40 it replaces. For maximum driver confidence, all V50 drivers have the valuable added control and safety of EBA (Emergency Brake Assistance) plus DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) as standard. Extensive crash testing has produced a new, patented front section cleverly and precisely divided into several zones to deliver large car safety levels.

Inside the Volvo V50, the ignition key has been moved from the steering column to the dashboard for better knee protection in an accident.Externally, to help reduce the risk of injury if the Volvo V50 is involved in an accident with pedestrians or cyclists, it has an energy absorbing structure ahead of the front bumper, smooth surfaces and rounded corners. In addition, to help reduce the risk of head injuries, there's a generous 70mm of space between the bonnet and the engine.

The V50 Sportswagon will be produced alongside the S60 and All-New S40 at Volvo's plant in Ghent, Belgium, with first deliveries to UK showrooms expected late March or early April. Volvo plans to sell 74,000 V50 Sportswagons a year globally, including 8,000 in the UK.

On the road prices for the V50 Sportswagon range will be released later this month, but are expected to start from less than £17,500.