The sportier R-Design package gives the Volvo V40 a sharper drive and more visual presence.

And the T3 engine, tested here, seems to be an excellent compromise between gas-guzzling units and underpowered engines.

There’s little doubt that the V40 is a vital car for the Swedish company, with it being the best-selling Volvo model in the UK.

So, with the latest updates, the challenge was to make it even more appealing to customers and keep it competitive against premium hatchback rivals.

The facelift for this year includes new LED ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights, resulting in a striking new look which is shared with Volvo’s new XC90, S90 and V90.

Whichever of the new trim levels you opt for (Momentum, Inscription or R-Design, tested here), the all-LED lights are standard, making this the first car in the segment to get such technology across the range.

Another noticeable difference comes in the shape of new grille meshes featuring the updated and more visually-striking Volvo badge.

Buyers also now get a choice of eight new alloy wheel designs and five new body colours.

In many other respects, the revised V40 will be familiar to those who had driven it previously, but that’s no bad thing considering the model’s obvious popularity.

In terms of performance, you get brisk acceleration from the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor, which offers 150bhp.

You have to be subtle with the accelerator to prevent wheelspin in first gear but, once you’re off the mark, the smooth engine is typical of Volvo in the way it propels you to a decent pace with the minimum of fuss. The gearbox is pretty slick and enjoyable to use, adding to the pleasurable driving experience.

In tighter bends, the steering is precise and has a reassuringly weighty feel. Body roll in corners is also well contained and there is a little by way of understeer. All this helps you place the nose of the car pretty much exactly where you want it.

When you feel you might be about to run wide, a lift of the throttle brings the car back into line swiftly.

Inside the cabin, there are lots of high-quality materials, creating a premium ambience. One of the dominant internal features is the five-inch colour display screen.

Digital radio, a Bluetooth hands-free system and two-zone climate control are also included.

However, the infotainment system isn’t the most user-friendly piece of equipment you’ll come across, with close attention needed to correctly select the option you want from the closely clustered buttons.

The Volvo On Call smartphone app, which allows remote access and control over a wide range of in-car features, has been given an update. Volvo On Call already delivered wearable connectivity (Apple Watch/Android Wear), but the new Microsoft Band 2 connectivity now enables voice-control for certain features when using Windows 10-based smartphones.

The R-Design Sports seats, in charcoal colour, are comfortable and provide plenty of support on longer journeys. Leg room is generous and a decent amount of seat adjustment is available. On the down side, head room is a little on the tight side for taller occupants of the car, suggesting that practicality has been compromised to some extent in favour of style when it comes to the curving roofline.

Meanwhile, the boot isn’t the biggest, although it’s worth noting that the folding rear seats split 60/40 as standard to reveal a load bay that’s quite sizeable.

The V40 range is competitively priced, with the T2 Momentum version available from a shade over £20,000, with the price getting closer to £25,000 for the R-Design Nav Plus tested here.

In essence, the V40 remains a very likeable car, with a pleasant interior, good handling and stylish looks. It’s a strong alternative to the ever-improving German opposition in this segment.

Volvo V40 T3 R-Design Nav Plus
PRICE: £24,695 (£27,220 as tested with options)
ENGINE: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol
TRANSMISSION: Manual
ECONOMY: Emissions of 127 g/km and 51.4mpg combined
PERFORMANCE: top speed 130mph and 0-60 in 7.8 seconds

Will's Ratings

PERFORMANCE: ****
ECONOMY: ****
RIDE/HANDLING: ****
SPACE: ***
EQUIPMENT: *****
SECURITY: *****
VALUE: ****
OVERALL: ****