Volvo S90 and V90 R Design

'Performance inspired' versions of well-received big Volvo announced - when can we have one with that 450hp Drive-E engine?

By Dan Trent / Wednesday, 22 June 2016 / Loading comments

We've had someone driving the new

and will be bringing you a full review shortly. Suffice it to say, initial PH response to the big new Volvo and its revival of the luxury estate car format has been generous.

Those wishing for a performance version harking back to the 850 T5s now popular at Shed money may be left waiting though. At least you can now make your S90 or V90 look the part, Volvo today announcing an R-Design package to complement the Momentum and Inscription spec levels detailed in our

previous pricing story

In the usual way of these things it's a styling package to spice up both interior and exterior, R-Design models getting a different front end with a unique grille plus rather smart looking black five-spoke wheels. Trim, pedals, mats, steering wheel and interior lighting are all different too.

So much for the 'performance feel' Volvo promises R-Design will bring. What about actual performance? The existing choice of two four-cylinder diesels, the more powerful D5 with 235hp, hardly inspires, even with the trick regenerative compressed air tank to boost turbo response. Volvo says it's not going to go bigger than four cylinders and 2.0 litres but there is hope yet - if that nifty 450hp 'triple boost' Drive-E engine with its two electrically primed turbos makes production, Volvo could yet deliver a performance V90 worthy of the name as well as the look.