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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