Volvo Introduces Sportier Looking V40 R-Design Variants [w/Video]

Launched ahead of its world premiere at this month’s Paris Motor Show is the new Volvo V40 R-Design, which is essentially a trim package with some minor styling enhancements for both the exterior and interior of the premium hatchback, much like the “R-Line” kits for the VW Beetle that we told you about in our previous post.

On the outside, the R-Design looks a tad more aggressive than the regular V40s thanks to a rear diffuser in a silk-metal finish that also features on the high-gloss grille, and the new five-spoke diamond-cut alloy wheels in 17- or 18-inch diameters.

Buyers of the R-Design model can choose from seven exterior colors including the Rebel Blue livery featured on the display car.

Moving on to the interior, Volvo’s designers added sport seats in a blend of black Nubuck textile and perforated leather with a full leather treatment available as an option, specially designed steering wheel, gear shifter, handbrake and sport pedals, new aluminium inlays with a perforated look, and a black headliner.

In addition, on the R-Design models, the V40’s interactive dashboard modes are all lighted up in the same radiant blue hue.

The R-Design trim can be had with all engines available for the V40, ranging from the D2 diesel with 113HP (115PS) and CO2 emissions at 94 g/km (3.6 lt/100 km) to the high-performance T5 petrol turbo with 251HP (254PS), while as with the regular model, buyers can choose between standard and the optional ‘Sport’ chassis.

Volvo anticipates that the new R-Design models will account for 10 percent of all V40 sales.

“Previous R-Design models have played an important role for increasing our sales and for lowering the age of our customer base,” said Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Corporation. “We believe that the new V40 R-Design will give this trend another boost.”

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