BEST USED EXECUTIVE CAR Volvo S90

“Soft suspension and whisper-quiet refinement mean few cars are as relaxing – or as effortless – to drive as the S90” OUR PICK D4 Momentum (2019/68, 51k miles, £19,490)

THE used-car market has endured a turbulent 12 months, but this sleek Swedish saloon’s status as a top second-hand buy remains. With a compelling combination of style, comfort and value, the S90 scoops its third Used Car Award trophy on the bounce.

So what makes this such a cracking used buy? Well, there’s the low price for starters. Struggles with new-car supply mean values of pre-owned models are up across the board, but a mint-condition D4 Momentum with a fully stamped history and less than 35,000 miles will give you change from £19,000. That’s thousands less than you’ll fork out for any premium-badged German rival.

Despite the lower price, the Volvo won’t leave you feeling short-changed. This is especially true inside, where the car’s cool Scandinavian style and first-rate finish create a club class sense of calm. Those sitting in the back also get limousine-like space, while the driver and passenger benefit from some of the comfiest seats in the class.

There’s no shortage of kit either, with all versions getting the firm’s neat portrait-oriented infotainment, climate control and leather-upholstered seats. You get the brand’s semi-autonomous driver safety aids, while options to look out for include the Bang & Olufsen stereo and handy head-up display.

Soft suspension and whisper-quiet refinement mean few cars are as relaxing to drive, while the four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines combine with a slick eight-speed auto for effortless progress. And while it’s not as entertaining as a BMW 5 Series, the Volvo’s accurate steering and tenacious grip mean you don’t have to avoid the long way home.

If you want a touch more excitement, then the T8 plug-in hybrid will zap to 62mph in under five seconds, yet will hum along in zero- emissions EV mode for more than 20 miles and claims more than 100mpg.