When we initially drove the Volvo V50 T5 we found the lack of traction to be a major Achilles heel. Too much consideration was involved in exiting slow corners or junctions rapidly as the traction control system pondered whether the driver was a novice or a hooligan for a significant period of time before cutting in. In both cases the result, amusing or otherwise, was long black lines of rubber and clouds of tyre smoke, or a slower than needed getaway into fast flowing traffic.

The four-wheel drive system fitted to the AWD model tested here banishes such things from the itinerary ensuring that even under duress the unloaded wheels don't fruitlessly vaporise their Pirellis. The result is more relaxed and fuss-free motoring and an altogether more usable car. Some of the ultimate pace is lost due to the extra drag of the transmission, but the 0-62mph dash is still seen off in 7.2 seconds and a 143mph maximum speed is as much as is needed.

In the real world the V50 remains deceptively quick. The long intermediate gear ratios blunt acceleration slightly, and the linear nature of the engine masks the actual pace, but in-gear acceleration is swift and strong. The car is a much more wieldy tool now as the unwelcome intrusion of torque steer is eliminated thanks to the four-wheel drive system as well.

Bereft of torque steer the T5 becomes an altogether different beast to drive on twisty roads. The four-wheel drive system also manages to quell some of the understeer present on the front-wheel drive car. The V50 T5 is a deceptively fast and drama free ground coverer in this configuration, even more so in the wet when compared to two-wheel drive competitors. What it does lack is involvement and feel, almost clinical to a fault with typical Scandinavian reserve. The Volvo is very similar to a fast Audi, pre RS4 at least, in that it is quick but completely lacking in emotion, other than the snarl of the blown five-cylinder engine.

For the most part the car here is the same as that we tested in 2004. It remains a desirable ownership option and one that should be near the top of the list of anyone looking for something of its type. The weak link for many will continue to be the overly characterless interior that, whilst roomy and pleasant to be in, lacks the class and perception of quality next to rivals. Two years after our original meeting the V50's interior is beginning to show its age next to rivals such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.

This aside the V50 is a very good car. The AWD takes the edge off ultimate performance and impacts fuel economy slightly but it is well worth the premium over the two-wheel drive car. It offers increased dynamic capability, usability and security to what was already a very impressive package.