An even sportier S90 has arrived: Volvo S90 R-Design.

Volvo adds a sporty R-Design option to the S90 range

The arrival of the S90 earlier this year brought about an interesting alternative to the typical German offerings in the luxury sedan segment. The S90’s mature and sophisticated look has been given a sporty aesthetic with the addition of the R-Design package. The additions include a gloss R-Design radiator grille with satin chrome accents and larger air dams in the front bumper. The satin theme is continued around the windows and the side mirrors. The rear of the Volvo S90 R-Design features a sportier derriere, with an intergraded rear diffuser and rhomboid tail pipes.  A set of standard 19-inch wheels completes the new sporty look, while the offering of either 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are available as optional equipment.  

The interior receives similar treatment, with the front sports seats being finished in Nappa leather with Nubuck inners. In addition, a perforated leather sports steering wheel with gear selection paddles and R-Design designation comes as part of the R-Design package, along with other changes which include aluminium sports pedals, unique floor mats and an illuminated R-Design logo in the door sills.

Spec Levels

The Volvo S90 R-Design models retain the same high level of standard equipment as the rest of the range, fitting in just below the Inscription model in terms of specification. This includes the distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” LED lights with the active cornering lights and high beam assist. The list of other features includes rear parking sensors, automated wipers, and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and the brilliant 9-inch Sensus Connect unit which controls the dual-zone climate control and Clean-zone Air quality control system. The infotainment system features USB input, Bluetooth, AUX and a 360-degree camera as well as internet connectivity and a 10-speaker audio system. The Pilot Assist semi-autonomous system also comes as standard on the R-Design models, with the ability to control acceleration, braking and steering up to 130km/h.

Dynamically, the chassis has been firmed up to improve the overall sharpness and cornering ability of the vehicle with stiffer suspension by way of adjustments to the front and rear setups

Engine Options

The choice of either 2 petrol or two diesel motors are on offer in R-Design trim. The T5 petrol R-Design will offer the same engine as in the standard model, offering 187 kW and 350 N.m, driving the front wheels. Volvo claims a combined fuel consumption figure of a rather frugal 6.5 l/100. The top spec petrol T6 AWD offers twin charging technology, making use of both a turbocharger and supercharger, working together to produce 235 kW and 400 N.m of torque, enough to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds while returning 7.2 l/100 on the combined cycle.

Diesel offerings include the same twin-turbo 2.0-litre motor in different states of tune. The D4 offers 140 kW and 400 N.m, giving a claimed consumption of 4.4 l/100. The top of the range diesel model offers 173 kW and 480 N.m, from the same twin-turbo 2.0- litre motor and is claimed to return 4.8 l/100km. All models are mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.

Alternatives

Competing with the likes of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW’s 5 Series and Audi’s A6, the Volvo S90 offers very high levels of standard equipment, safety and high-tech engines and drivetrain options as an interesting prospect with highly competitive pricing, especially when considering the Germans’ love for the odd ‘Optional extra’ here and there.

Volvo S90 R-Design Pricing in South Africa

Pricing is competitive, especially when considering the list of standard equipment. All derivatives come as standard with Volvo’s 5-year/100 000 km full maintenance plan and warranty, Tracker Connect and laminated glass.

Volvo S90 T5 FWD R-Design Geartronic                             R718 300

Volvo S90 D4 FWD R-Design Geartronic                             R742 200

Volvo S90 D5 AWD R-Design Geartronic                            R822 900

Volvo S90 T6 AWD R-Design Geartronic                            R874 600