But the autobox T5's slightly heftier 1,418 kilogram (3,126 pound) curb weight is hardly a price to pay for the increase in engine output. The turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder unit makes a substantial 218-hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, making it the power to weight equal of its German counterparts.

Although the 5-speed automatic is great, I'd personally take my S40 with the slick 6-speed manual. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

I've already mentioned how impressive its Geartronic 5-speed automatic is, but I'd take mine with the optional 6-speed manual. This is an extremely slick shifter, notching from gear to gear with short throws and precise increments. The clutch is nicely weighted too, not too heavy and not too light, it's just right.

Power gets down to the road either via a front-wheel drivetrain or an electronically controlled Haldex all-wheel drive power transfer system. I tried both, and would opt for the latter if money was no object.

The S40 is well suited to Europe's twisting country roads and narrow city streets. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

As previously mentioned, the roads that overlook Gibraltar and the Mediterranean in between are as curvaceous as any I've ever seen. The S40 is ideal for Europe's narrow lanes, which should make it even easier to negotiate around our local streets and parking lots.

The S40's steering system is nothing out of the ordinary, a conventional power assisted rack and pinion type. The way it is tuned is special however, light for parking and slightly weighted when tracking at high-speed. I found the car especially easy for quick lane changes, due as much to its light weight and compact dimensions as to its sophisticated multi-link fully independent suspension system.