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New Volvo V60 R-Design trim released

Sporty R-Design trim added to the new Volvo V60's line-up, starting from £35,410

Volvo has released the R-Design version of the V60. The sporty trim line of the Swedish brand’s BMW 3 Series Touring M Sport and Audi A4 Avant S Line rival is predicted to be the biggest seller in the line-up.

The one mechanical change to R-Design models comes in the shape of sports suspension. Sitting 12mm lower to the ground than the standard car, and equipped with firmer springs and dampers, Volvo says that the changes endow the V60 with “an even more engaging driving experience.”

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Elsewhere, the R-Design gains a smattering of cosmetic tweaks. Up front, there’s a more aggressive nose featuring wider side vents and a deeper front splitter, while around the back, there’s some extra trim to emphasise the depth of the bumper.

Much of the usual brightwork is blacked-out - the door mirrors, window trims, grille elements, roof rails and tailpipe surrounds all get a gloss black finish, while there’s a choice of wheel designs which measure 18 or 19 inches, depending on engine output.

The R-Design is available with all three current V60 engines. The range kicks off with a 148bhp, 62.9 mpg-rated D3 diesel, while a more powerful D4 diesel makes 187bhp. The most potent current model is the petrol-powered T5 with 247bhp. The D3 comes with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes, while the other two are auto only.

Inside, the R-Design is equipped with part-leather sports seats, black headlining, sports pedals, and a sports steering wheel and gear lever.

Standard equipment includes the likes of a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12.3-inch digital dials and a powered tailgate. Upgrade to the R-Design Pro model, and a head-up display, keyless entry a hands-free tailgate are added, along with seat heaters and an electric memory adjustment for the driver’s seat.

The V60 R Design and Pro are available to order now, with deliveries starting before the end of the year. Prices start from £35,410 for the V60 D3 R-Design manual, climbing to £37,770 for the T5 R-Design. R-Design Pro models each cost £2,250 more.

Is the new Volvo V60 the best executive estate? We tested it against the Audi A4 Avant to find out...

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Chief reviewer

Alex joined Auto Express as staff writer in early 2018, helping out with news, drives, features, and the occasional sports report. His current role of Chief reviewer sees him head up our road test team, which gives readers the full lowdown on our comparison tests.

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