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The start point for the best source of fleet information
Following the success of Volvo's R-design trim level in the C30, the Swedish brand has introduced the sporty-styled version to other models, including the S40/V50 twins, XC90 and, here, the V70.
Priced at £1750 above the standard SE trim, the R-design adds cosmetic tweaks including rear spoiler, chrome exhaust pipes, unique alloy wheels and leather sports seats as well as other interior tweaks such as new blue inserts on the dials and a new gear lever.
But the V70 R-design isn't all cosmetic. The chassis has been upgraded and the car lowered to provide a more sporting drive.
Largely it works, although the huge V70 is never going to be a sports car. It looks good, is pleasant to drive, and the modification doesn't harm the ride and refinement as may have been feared.
It's also, crucially, below the new 161g/km capital allowance threshold in 136PS 2.0-litre diesel form driven here, so is attractive to fleets. The diesel engine isn't, though, particularly potent compared to premium-badged rivals from BMW and Audi. But decent RVs and an average 47.9mpg help the Volvo to a 53.3ppm running costs figure.
Volvo V70 2.0D R-design
P11D price
£26,345
Model price range
£24,995-£38,525
Fuel consumption
47.9mpg
CO2 (tax)
157g/km/22%
BIK 20/40% per month
£97/£193
Service interval
18,000mls
Insurance
group 13
Warranty
3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space (min/max)
575/1600 litres
Engine size/power
1997cc/136PS
Top speed/0-62mph
121mph/11.4secs
On sale
Late 2008
Score
7/10
Verdict
Looks great and decent running costs, but power is down on rivals
Verdict
Looks great and decent running costs, but power is down on rivals