Volvo XC90 Gets R-Design Treatment

Unveiled in fiery Passion Red finish and scheduled to debut at Detroit next week, this is an XC90 designed specifically for the more discerning consumer. Volvo R-Design is a new concept in refinement, first seen on V70, XC70 and S80 models, giving customers the higher levels of customisation now so prevalent in the industry. The new product line is seen by the firm to highlight their increasing focus on making their cars 'more extrovert and emotional' - and that it does.

Based on the XC90 Sport model, namely utilising its sport chassis, the R-Design version also pinches silk matt finish details, brushed steel sill mouldings and stylish blue-lit metal watch-style instrument dial faces. But exclusive to R-Design are 19-inch or optional 20-inch alloys, dual exhaust pipes and rear view mirror caps in a silk matt finish.

Further accentuating a more sporty vehicle is the removal of roof rails, which move to the options list. Exclusive R-Design badges stress the upgrade, splattering badging on the grille, on backrests and on the leather-trim steering wheel. Additional accents in the cabin include the perforated leather sports seats and contrasting cream-coloured strip on off-black Flex-Tec upholstery. An aluminium centre stack and door inlays provide a refined trim.

Press Release

Volvo�s new sports inspired R-Design package is now available on the Volvo XC90 and is given its first public appearance at the North American International Auto Show this month. Already a popular specification on the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 models the R-Design package is made for customers who want a car with refined and expressive attributes and one which makes a bold statement on the road.

The R-Design package for the Volvo XC90 is an extension of the XC90 Sport model that was introduced in late 2006 and maintains many of the same prominent features such as Sport chassis, details in silk matt finish, sill mouldings in brushed stainless steel and instrument dials with metal chronograph watch-style faces and blue lighting.

However, R-Design brings a whole new expressive dimension with 19-inch alloy wheels as standard with an option to upgrade to 20-inch, dual exhaust pipes, skid-plate, the R-Design badge in the grille and rear view mirror caps in silk matt finish. To further accentuate the sporty nature and to create a sleeker appearance, the car is not fitted with roof rails, although these are still available as an option.

Inside the car, the seats are covered in off-black Flex-Tec with the seat cushion and backrest in contrasting cream-coloured leather; the perforated leather and sports seats with additional lateral cushioning support the driver even in faster cornering. The R-Design logo embossed on the backrest and the contrasting stitching reinforce the interior�s sporty appearance. Other R-Design interior details include the leather-trim steering wheel with its R-Design logo, aluminium pedals, specially designed aluminium centre stack and door inlays, gear selector and tufted dark sport floor mats with contrasting leather piping.

�R-Design is entirely in line with the accelerated focus on making our cars more extrovert and emotional. It gives the buyers the opportunity to spice up the already distinct personality of these car models,� says Steve Mattin, Senior Vice President and Design Director at Volvo Cars.