SPORTY LOOKS FOR VOLVO SUV: Germany's premium car manufacturers have long known that even when the mechanics beneath are decidedly humdrum, a sporty trim level is like catnip to customers and highly profitable for them - witness the number of M Sport BMWs, S line Audis and AMG-trimmed Mercedes-Benz's on Northern Ireland roads. Volvo has been slowly building the profile of its own sporty trim level, which it calls R-Design. Already a fine-looking large SUV, Volvo has just shown us the R-Design version of its fine-looking new XC90 which adds visual muscle to a handsome vehicle.
According to Volvo, the R-Design version of the all-new car is "aimed at buyers looking for a head-turner that radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look". "R-Design is created for people with a passion for things that add spice to life," enthused Alain Visser from Volvo. "It appeals to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design. Every single R-Design detail is designed to contribute to the individualistic and refined expression these customers desire."
There may be more than a dash of marketing hyperbole in there, but there's no denying the R-Design looks the part.
It gets a different grille, front spoiler, window surrounds, exhaust trims, roof rails and mirror covers to set it apart from other XC90s, as well as 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside there are sports seats trimmed in nubuck and perforated leather.