IN THE increasingly crowded premium hot hatch market, it pays to have a point of difference.

Volvo separates its new V40 T5 R-Design from the herd with a warbling turbocharged five-cylinder engine once shared with Ford, and boy how Swede it is.

But the circa $50k pricetag puts it in-line with the BMW 125i and Mercedes-Benz A250 Sport – both of which offer superb dynamics and tempting badge cachet.

The front-drive Volvo pitches its case by being more comfortable than either, and while it lacks their edge, it does offer a welcome dose of ‘outsider’ chic.

Volvo has a tough road ahead, competing in such a busy segment, but on first impressions, it deserves whatever success it gets.

Click the yellow Our Opinion button to read the full review...