Volvo announces 2010 XC60 R-Design

VOLVO has introduced its sporty R-Design variant of the ever-popular XC60 crossover, --- 2010 Volvo XC60 R-Design SUV. Set to go on sale shortly after its debut at this September's Frankfurt Motor Show, the XC60 R-Design gets an enhancement of the looks further and also a better driving experience.

The R-Design chassis is stiffer and the dampers have been revalved to firm up the ride. Furthermore, the steering ratio has been tightened up to improve steering response and help drivers feel more connected to the road.

The XC60 R-Design is targeting the young and the restless. "The R-Design model boosts the XC60's already sporty aura and gives the car an even more refined character in terms of both driving experience and design." says Lennart Stegland, president of Volvo Special Vehicles. "These are properties that we know appeal to the discerning buyers of this type of cars."

From the outside, it's easy to recognize the typical R-Design attributes: door mirror housings, trim mouldings and trim in matte silk metal finish, skid-plates and twin chrome tailpipes. The five-spoke 'Cratus' aluminum wheels are also unique for the R-Design models. In standard form they measure 18in but there's also the option of a 20in set. Another new feature is that the lower section of the car is now colour-matched to the rest of the body instead of the matte black design of the standard model.

For the interior Volvo has continued to make it stylish while sporty, adding aluminum inserts in the steering wheel, door mouldings and the stylized center stack. The standard pedals have also been replaced with aluminum units, while the seats have been covered with a new dual-tone leather design. Finally, the sports steering wheel has been trimmed with perforated leather and features an engraved R-Design emblem sitting center.

The price is not revealed yet.