Not everyone will buy the full performance version of Volvo’s new flagship 90 Series cars – the S90 sedan and the V90 estate, but even before the Swedish marque took over their now in-house go-faster division they offered the R-Design line.
Now, the R-Design line in the S90 and V90 aren’t just limited to cosmetic upgrades – though there is a good dose of that. Volvo has given the 90 Series R-Design an advanced sport chassis that they will offer owners an energetic, road-hugging drive.
The regular S90 and V90 have garnered praise for its feel of effortless driving, but also being able to hold its own in the corners. With the R-Design, though, Volvo wanted to take it further: giving it added road presence as well as some lively driving characteristics.
“R-Design delivers an edge to our elegant estate and sedan models in our 90 Series, with a winning combination of a sportier, more responsive drive with clearly visible performance styling,” said Björn Annwall, Senior Vice President Marketing Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars.
Presumably, the R-Design’s range of engines will match that of the standard S90/V90 offerings. That’s no bad thing, given how they are rather powerful and frugal in clever ways. Despite not outright admitting it yet, we suspect Volvo will give the R-Design models altered engine calibrations to make it more responsive even if the power and torque figures remain as they were.
Each 90 Series R-Design comes with a new front fascia with spoiler-integrated fog lamps, unique front grille with piano black trim and the front and rear. Finishing off the exterior are the 5-spoke matte black diamond-cut wheels.
Inside, there are a range of new styling cues to evoke that sporty feel. There’s a carbon-effect weave on the dashboard and centre console, contoured sports seats, a unique steering wheel, and an interior illumination package fitted as standard.
Bookings are now open elsewhere for the R-Design line versions of the S90 and V90. Elsewhere, like Australia, we’ll have to wait at least until both cars make their local debut in Q4 2016. Although, we won’t be surprised to find out it will be offered from the get go.
For more on Volvo vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
