dreamcar:

Many people are prejudiced against Volvo from the days where their vehicles were akin to a military armoured personnel carrier and handled and drove in the same way. They've come a long way since then. Volvo still don't make cars that are the "ultimate driving machine" to coin BMW's tag line. But comparing their products with the default German equivalents they are at least on a par. We looked at many options before buying our V40, despite all saying the VW Golf is the best small hatch neither of us found it comfortable, the fascia whilst being of high quality is typically dark and austere.It has the styling and character of domestic a It's also way overpriced. VW dealerships, much like BMW are arrogant and the sales staff have a couldn't care less attitude in the belief that it makes no difference how offhand they are the public will still beg to buy their cars.  The BMW 1 series is unspeakably bad. The Audi A3 is the closest rival, but again not as comfortable and much more expensive. Volvo products are also bring a refreshing individuality in what is becoming an increasingly bland and same-sameness about almost every other manufacturer. And we all know the contempt VW Group feel about their customers by the way they cheated emissions, the residual values of their cars have fallen off a cliff as a result and apart from the US (which has much stronger consumer protection) have refused to offer any compensation. 

I exactly have the same experience.

Regarding the XC90, it is driving very agile. It feels much smaller than it is. The handling is direct but still comfortable. I was surprised after driving it, never expected it in this way.