Volvo considers R-Design pack for the S80 sedan

With Volvo’s introduction of the R-Design interior pack on the S80 executive saloon, it is testing customers’ reaction before it announces a full-blown, standalone version. The R-Design traditionally includes tweaked suspension, body styling and a sports interior.

Volvo has given the R-Design treatment to the other models in the range (recently was the XC60 SUV) but it has not done so for the S80. If there is enough interest in a sports-themed S80, Volvo will create a bodykit, with downforce-inducing rear spoiler, a deeper, more aggressive front bumper, and possibly sculpted side sills. The S80 range has recently been treated to a “lowered dynamic’ chassis which would negate the need for an R-Design suspension. Product manager Chris Wailes said that start/stop, which has recently been introduced to a number of Volvo models including the C30 and S40, can be fitted to the S80.
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wins555 - 7/31/2009 12:47:51 AM

+1 Boost

Good job Volvo for updating existing products. Companies must do what they can to keep their heads above water. I'm just not convinced that an S80 R is such a good idea as the larger Volvo sedan are not perceived as "sport" sedans. Maybe the more appropriate model is the S60 but until the new model comes out next year, this has to fill the gap. Then again, with the right handling, power, and affordable price (as compared to Audi, Saab, BMW, etc) the S80 R could be a winner for Volvo.

Agent63 - 7/31/2009 8:02:01 PM

+1 Boost

The S80 can look sporty but the buyers typically wont expect that from a Volvo of this size. I think the S80 is very luxurious and under-rated. It's actually very quite and comfortable.

lock - 7/31/2009 12:14:23 PM

+1 Boost

Bring an R motor too, not just the R design.

MSP6 - 7/31/2009 2:34:37 PM

+2 Boost

Volvo decided in 2007 to drop the "R" performance models (well there was only one real R model, the s60R) in favor of the R-design option packs. They then said that building high performance cars was not in the company business scope.

That being said, the 4.4 V8 is a very capable engine.