Volvo launches R-Design V60 and S60 models

Volvo has introduced R-Design versions of its new S60 saloon and V60 'sportswagon' which feature extra bodystyling and a specially developed chassis. And the good news is that the R-Design trim is available across the S60 and V60 range - not just the higher-specification variants.

This means that buyers can opt for the economical 2.0-litre D3 all the way through to the high-performance T6, with all cars benefiting from the sportier looks of the R-Design variant. In total there's a choice of four petrol and two diesel units, with all engines designed to meet high expectations of driving pleasure combined with competitive fuel consumption.

On the inside, the driver and front passenger get sports seats in which the backrest from the S60 and V60 is matched by an all-new seat cushion with even closer side support than before. The special leather/textile upholstery is available trimmed in off-black and ceramic light, or in an all-black variant, both with contrasting stitching. The interior also features an R-Design steering wheel, gear selector, sports pedals and floor-mats.

On the outside, the cars have an imposing redesigned front valance while a distinctive diffuser houses twin exhaust tailpipes. Unique five-spoke 18-inch Diamond cut wheels emphasise the sports appearance. But it's not just the looks that have been given the sporty treatment. There's a strut brace under the bonnet to stiffen up the body structure and at the rear, the S60 and V60 R-Design feature monotube dampers. Unlike the twin-tube dampers previously used, the monotube system features compression and return damping via the same valve. This gives shorter, faster fluid flow, which in turn means the damper responds more quickly.

The front and rear springs have been shortened by 15mm and spring stiffness is 15 per cent higher compared to the standard-fit dynamic chassis in the S60 and V60. The bushings with which the rear dampers are attached to the body are 20 per cent stiffer compared with the dynamic chassis in the S60 and V60. The front tie-blade bushing, attaching the rear sub-frame to the car, is a massive 400 per cent stiffer than before to counteract wheel bouncing and shaking.

As with standard car, the chassis in the S60 and V60 R-Design is backed up by a range of electronic systems that sharpen the driving experience still further. Corner Traction Control is a new feature that uses torque vectoring to make for smoother cornering. When cornering, the car's inner wheel is braked so more power is transferred to the outer wheel. This gives the driver a tighter line in the curve, with reduced understeering tendency.

The DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) system has several functions that improve driving and safety properties, such as Advanced Stability Control. With a new gyroscopic roll-angle sensor it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. This means that the anti-spin system can deploy faster and with greater precision. 

Click here to read our 2010 Paris Motor Show A-Z guide