What's all this about?
Volvo has sported-up the XC90, which rather goes against its super-refined, elegant grain. However, the resulting model looks pretty tasty. It's called the R-Design.
Is this a new trim level?
Yes, featuring mainly styling additions inside and out. Look for a set of 20-inch diamond-cut alloys, silver door mirrors, a gloss black mesh front grille and tinted rear windows. The interior features leather and nubuck sports seats, a 12.3-inch active TFT driver's information display and a perforated leather steering wheel with paddle shifts. The passenger seat now gets the electric adjustment and memory functions that the driver's seat has always had, while there are also some sports pedals, black headlining and improved interior lighting. Even the key fob gets the treatment, with exclusive R-Design leather cladding.
Are there any dynamic improvements?
All R-Design XC90s come with Drive Mode Settings and Adjustable Steering Force as standard. If you've got the optional air suspension fitted, that means the parameters for ride, throttle response, steering and the gearbox can all be adjusted on the hoof.
And what are the prices for the R-Design cars?
Available on all three engines (the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E units, plus the T8 Twin Engine petrol-electric hybrid), the R-Design trim starts from £49,785 on the road and is available to order now.
Matt Robinson - 26 Nov 2015