Volvo XC90 R-Design adds a dash of sport

Thu, 18 Sep 2014

The 2015 Volvo XC90 is a huge leap forward for the Swedish automaker as its first all-new model since leaving Ford ownership. There's a lot riding on the crossover's success, too, because its platform is supposed to underpin Volvo vehicles for years to come. The latest move for the new CUV is adding a little aggressiveness to the look with the R-Design trim for buyers desiring a sportier-looking Swede.

The R-Design joins the already announced Momentum and Inscription trims. Mechanically it doesn't change anything, but ticking the box for the R-Design adds a slightly different grille with horizontal slats, a redesigned lower air dam, new window trim, matte silver side-mirror covers and rectangular exhaust nestled in an altered lower rear bumper. The sportier XC90 comes standard with 20-inch wheels, but a 22-inch design is optional, as well.

The meaner look is carried inside with sport seats covered in Nubuck and Nappa leather, a perforated leather steering wheel and R-Design trim for the gearshift, pedals, floor mats and illuminated tread plates. The touchscreen infotainment system also gets an R-Design theme.

According to Volvo, the XC90 R-Design is all about giving buyers a chance to personalize their crossover. With the Momentum as the base and the Inscription trim representing more luxury with high-end finishes, the new addition goes after one more niche. Scroll down to read the official announcement of this slightly meaner looking XC90.

Volvo Cars reveals the all-new Volvo XC90 R-Design

Volvo Cars has released the first images of the RDesign version of the allnew XC90, aimed at buyers looking for a headturner that radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look.

"R-Design is created for people with a passion for things that add spice to life," said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service of Volvo Car Group. "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."

The visual promise of a dynamic ride is confirmed by the drivercentric interior featuring R-Design sports seats in a Nubuck and fine Nappa leather. A choice of DriveE powertrains offering up to 400 hp and the completely new XC90 chassis ensure an agile driving experience.

The release of the R-Design follows Volvo's release of 1,927 individually numbered black First Edition XC90's which were offered for sale exclusively online and sold out in 47 hours.

Distinctive R-Design detailing

The R-Design exterior includes a number of distinguishing details, such as grille, lower front spoiler, window in silk metal, and a R-Design dual tailpipe surround, integrated bright roof rails and mirror
????covers in matte silver. 20-inch or optional 22-inch R-Design alloy wheels complete the stylish, dynamic look.

Inside, the sports seats and perforated leather steering wheel are accompanied by special R-Design
details, such as gearshift knob, pedals, floor mats and illuminated thread plates. The driver also gets an
???Distinctive R-Design detailing.

The R-Design exterior includes a number of distinguishing details, such as grille, lower front spoiler, window in silk metal, and a RDesign dual tailpipe surround, integrated bright roof rails and mirror
covers in matte silver. 20inch or optional 22inch RDesign alloy wheels complete the stylish, dynamic look.

Inside, the sports seats and perforated leather steering wheel are accompanied by special R-Design details, such as gearshift knob, pedals, floor mats and illuminated thread plates. The driver also gets an exclusive R-Design leather key remote control.

Tablet-like touch screen

The tablet-like touch screen in the center console and a 12.3-inch fully graphical driver display are of course included in the R-Design. The driver display also features a unique RDesign theme. The heart of the allnew incar control is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of Internet and cloud based products and services.

New trim level strategy

R-Design is one of three choices in Volvo Cars' reinvented trim level strategy available in the U.S. The very competitive Momentum trim level is a well-contented vehicle designed to meet the needs of consumers. The Inscription trim level is designed for customers that have a focus on craftsmanship, increased comfort and exclusive features not found on Momentum or R-Design. R-Design's focus is on a sporty and dynamic aura.

"In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasize each of their distinctive individual personalities," said Alain Visser.

By Chris Bruce