“Sporty” trim levels that don’t include any major performance-enhancing hardware rarely get our hearts pumping, but gosh darn it if Volvo’s new R-Design trim package for the S90 and V90 doesn’t look smashing. Of course, it helps when you start with sedans and wagons as attractive as Volvo’s new 90-series range.
As on the Volvo XC90, the R-Design package mostly consists of visual tweaks like five-spoke wheels with matte-black accents, a revised front end with a different grille treatment and a lower front spoiler, and some extra bits of black trim. Interior differences include silver “deco” trim, sport seats, and an R-Design steering wheel. It’s a nice upgrade that gives the already clean designs of the S90 and V90 a more athletic look.
Volvo also says that the R-Design models come with a “sport chassis,” which means stiffer springs and dampers and a slightly lower ride height (an air suspension is optional as well). R-Design models don’t include any powertrain tweaks, but we’re willing to bet that S90 and V90 buyers eventually will be able to combine the R-Design package with these models’ “Polestar Optimization” option. That package offers a power upgrade for the T6 turbo- and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, along with revised transmission and throttle tuning for better responsiveness.

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