To compete against some tough opposition, the S80 Executive luxury models come armed with an awesome portfolio of virtues. Model for model, you''ll find them bigger, faster and more environmentally friendly than any of their Teutonic rivals.

Oh, and less expensive too, with prices in this case starting from a not-inconsequential £34,943 for the 163bhp D5 diesel before topping out at £39,648 for the 272bhp 2.8-litre turbocharged T6 engine. As with all S80 variants, they come equipped with a package of items that include satellite navigation, alloy wheels, a CD player, cruise control and wood-effect trim. This, however, is not how the Executive models differentiate themselves.

There's more to this car than simply an extra level of equipment. To cater for chauffeur-driven applications, rear passenger leg room has been improved, and the rear seats themselves have been upgraded to heated armchair-style numbers, trimmed in leather. If you're the sort of person who's accustomed to turning left upon entering a 747, you'll know what to expect. To facilitate entry to the back, the doors' hingeing system has been modified to let the doors open wider. The ambience in the back is given the perfect gentleman's club quality by the addition of a refrigerator to chill your G&Ts as you're hustled to the Executive Lounge.

Both Executive models boast suitably powerful engines. Most buyers will choose the diesel D5 but a fortunate few will opt for the flagship T6, which boasts an even faster 272bhp 2.8-litre twin-turbo six, with performance equivalent to a V8. Here, 60 is 7.2 seconds away, en route to 155mph.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Volvo S80 Executive range

PRICES: £34,943-£39,648 - on the road

INSURANCE GROUPS: 13-16

CO2 EMISSIONS: 172-266g/km

PERFORMANCE: (2.9) 0-60mph 8.2s / Max Speed 146mph

FUEL CONSUMPTION: (2.9) (combined) 27.9mpg

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, side airbags, side impact curtains

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: 4820/1830/1450mm