Volvo V40 D2 R-design Lux Nav: Test Drive Review

Much in the way BMW and Audi have achieved success with their M-sport and S-line trim levels, Volvo has now added an R-design model to its V40 range, the Audi A3 rival it launched last autumn.

Expected to account for around a quarter of V40s, the new trim level features enhanced styling courtesy of new, sportier front and rear bumpers, a bespoke grille, vertical daytime running lights and new 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as unique colour choices not available on the rest of the range. There’s also the option of sports suspension, which lowers the car by 10mm, while the interior is marked out as the top trim level via sports steering wheel and pedals, aluminium detailing, and logos stitched into the seats.

The R-design costs £2300 more than the entry ES trim level, and is also available, as driven here, in top R-design Lux spec for an additional £1750, with both trim levels well-specified.

A residual value of 39.2% and class-leading emissions for a diesel of 94g/km, enough to keep it in the lowest company car tax band come April, combine with the enhanced looks to help make the new R-design trim an appealing addition to the range.