Volvo Cars reveals sporty S90 and V90 R-Design models

Volvo Cars has revealed new R-Design models of the new S90 saloon and V90 estate, slated to go on sale in Europe early next year. Central to the S90 and V90 R-Design is an advanced sport chassis that delivers an energetic, road-hugging drive.

These performance-oriented versions of Volvo rival the likes of Audi A6, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. They receive unique exterior styling, including a bespoke front grille, fog lights integrated into the front spoiler, and new alloy wheels. Volvo says it has also re-tuned the car's chassis to provide a more "energetic, road-hugging drive."

Inside, both cars get new trim options, a sports seats and steering wheel and new interior lighting.

“R-Design delivers an edge to our elegant estate and saloon models in our 90 Series, with a winning combination of a sportier, more responsive drive with clearly visible performance styling,” said Björn Annwall, senior vice president of Marketing, Sales & Customer Service at Volvo Cars.

The Swedish carmaker hasn't released official pricing for the R-Design models, but they're expected to command a significant premium over the regular S90 and V90, which are priced from £32,555 (Rs 32.5 lakh) and £34,555 (Rs 34.5 lakh) respectively.

Prices of around £38,500 (Rs 38.5 lakh) for the S90 R-Design and around £40,500 (Rs 40.5 lakh) for the V90 R-Design are likely keeping with Volvo's current pricing structure.

The S90 headed to India could receive the R-Design trim in the near future, as Volvo had introduced the package on the S60 and XC60 in 2014, and is likely to offer it on the XC90 sometime this year.