Volvo has released details of an R-Design version of the XC60
‘Sporty’ is not a word you associate readily with Volvo. True, some of their turbo-charged cars have had a turn of speed, and many of their models are not too slouchy (of course, if you throw something like the Vox Volvo in then that changes dramatically!). So you won’t be shocked to learn that the new Volvo XC60 R-Design is just that – design and no substance. It’s a bit like the VW Tiguan R-Line Volkswagen revealed a bit back; it talks the talk, but it can’t walk the walk.
Still, more power isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – particularly at the moment – but many buyers like a bit of ‘butchness’ in their cars. And to be completely fair to Volvo, although they haven’t messed with the oily bits for more oomph, they have played with the suspension for more feel.
Volvo say the XC60 has improved steering (thanks to ‘Direct Steering Gear’), stiffer damping and a more robust chassis. Which might just translate in to a harder ride rather than more ability to play on the twisty bits.
On the cosmetic side, the XC60 R-Design gets full body coloured treatment (a big visual improvement), a sprinkling of matt silk chrome, some half-decent 18″ alloys, skid plates and a pair of chromed exhaust pipes.
The interior of the XC60 R-Design gets splashed with aluminium. You get a new centre stack with circular patterns, a style that is mimicked in the stripes of the seats (sounds odd – but there are no interior pics on offer so we’ll have to wait and see). You do of course get the required R-Design logos dotted around as well.
We have no word yet on price or when the XC60 R-Design will be in UK Showrooms. But it will be soon.
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