Volvo Rolls Out "Sports-Inspired" R-design

The official word has come down about Volvo's new R-design lineup, a subject of much speculation recently. Using words like "refined" and "sports-inspired," Volvo said the factory options package — which is largely cosmetic — will be available on the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 in Europe this fall.

The R-design package apparently is not intended as a replacement for Volvo's high-performance R-series cars that the company is phasing out of production. Volvo explained that R-design "replaces and enhances" Volvo's current sport trim levels. R-design is available on Sport and SE Sport models and on all engines in the C30, S40 and V50 lineup. The Sport with R-design range starts at the equivalent of about $33,250 for a Volvo C30 1.6 Sport.

R-design includes exterior upgrades such as a satin matte-finish grille, color-coordinated bumpers and lower side moldings, rear or roof spoiler, satin matte-finish side mirrors and five-spoke aluminum wheels in 17- or 18-inch sizes. In the cabin, upgrades include off-black seats with contrasting cream-colored leather, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with R-design logo, aluminum pedals, aluminum center stack and door inlays, and tufted dark sport floor mats.

There are no major suspension modifications or powertrain upgrades. It is uncertain whether R-design will be available in North America.