Volvo has launched a new R-Design version of its V40 hatchback, with both exterior and interior trim upgrades. Exterior styling changes over the standard V40 contribute to a more aggressive overall appearance, including a re-framed lower grille design and new five-spoke diamond cut wheels available in 17 or 18-inch diameters.

At the rear, the R-Design edition is distinguished by twin exhaust tailpipes and a central diffuser section. Six exterior colour choices are available, including the show car’s ‘Rebel Blue’ paintwork.

Inside, the new model also gains a unique steering wheel, gearlever, handbrake and pedals. The seats, available in either full leather or black Nubuck textile and leather, carry blue embroidered R-Design logos. A series of aluminium inlays offset the predominantly black interior colour scheme, whilst the V40’s interactive dashboard mode layouts are highlighted in blue for this model.

The R-Design trim is available for all V40 engine options, starting from the 113bhp D2 diesel and ranging to the 251bhp turbocharged T5 petrol unit. As with the standard V40, two chassis options are available, the standard ‘Dynamic’ spec or the optional ‘Sport’ with a lower ride height and firmer dampers.

Volvo forecasts around 10 per cent of V40 buyers will specify the R-Design version. Vice President of Product Strategy Lex Kerssemakers suggests that the model will appeal to younger buyers. He said: "Previous R-Design models have played an important role for increasing our sales and for lowering the age of our customer base. We believe that the new V40 R-Design will give this trend another boost."

they need to seriously bring back "R" vehicles and not these R-Design versions. those previous V70R wagons were the -ish!

and definitely doing an injustice by not coming stateside...Volvo's been on their A-game as far as designs