Here we have a Focus ST with arguably Sweden?s most stylish and daring body ever (in the world of series-production cars at least) draped over the familiar mechanicals ? although, technically, it is Volvo?s own engine. Still, not a lot wrong with that really, as the ST has never been slated for lacking oomph!

There is, however, a downside to the C30.

Its chassis and suspension have been tuned not for hardcore race-driving antics, but rather for supple, relaxed, unfussed country-lane cruising with the suspension absorbing all road imperfections and cosseting both the driver and his limited number of passengers in a typically Volvo-esque cocoon of luxury and serenity. As a result of this set-up, the C30 is pipped around Kyalami by a few of the less powerful vehicles in this wild group.

Thing is, there?s still nothing wrong with the power delivery, but the C30 T5 displays some odd traits on the smooth tarmac of the racetrack. There?s so much roll entering the corner, that oversteer is always present if you?re trail-braking as you turn in, in surprisingly large amounts! Climb on the throttle too early, and it exacerbates the issue, especially with the traction control set-up still switched on. You?ve got to find it before you can turn it off, after all?

Its gear-change manages to be both quite direct and quite vague at the same time, another odd trait, and the brakes are squidgy and lack any kind of feel or feedback through the pedal regarding what?s happening at the four contact points. The C30 T5 is a car that is quick, rather than really fast, but successfully isolates the driver from the action so much that if you?re a driving enthusiast, you?re unlikely to really want to get back in for another go.

Al right, the interior is suitably upmarket and stylish, and I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of space provided for the driver at least. There?s little aural pleasure to be had from wringing the turbo motor out either, and thrust is delivered in such a linear manner that you barely even notice just what the turbo is doing, ever. Even when the speedo needle swings past 200km/h?