This hot-blooded variant of the all-new Volvo V40 is due to reach local shores early next year.
In the run-up to the local launch of the all-new Volvo V40 we already have some exciting news of things to come in the ranges one of those is the launch of the Volvo V40 R-Design. It’s a sure way of keeping interest high in an already fantastic line-up.
The spectacular Volvo V40 R-Design’s visual promise of a life in the fast lane is firmly backed up by its driver-centric interior and an intense, agile driving experience.
“The V40 R-Design is designed around the performance-minded individual with a passion for things that add extra spice to life. The meticulous attention to detail covers the expressive design as well as the agile, precise performance,” says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Corporation.
The attention-grabbing exterior has been specially developed for buyers who want to put their very own stamp on their car.
The unique R-Design front features a silk-metal framed high-gloss grille. The sporty stance is further enhanced with an ironstone diffuser, silk-metal finished details and twin exhaust tailpipes. The five-spoke 18-inch diamond-cut wheels complete the stylish, dynamic look.
On top of the Rebel Blue livery, the Volvo V40 R-Design buyer has a choice of five other exterior colours.
The interactive dashboard in the all-new Volvo V40 has already got a lot of positive attention, both from media and customers. The possibility to switch between three layouts with different configurations and functionality – Elegance, Eco and Performance – is mirrored in the V40 R-design. But here all of the modes come in the same radiant blue colour.
“Inside, the new generation R-Design the seats and interior details emphasize the distinctive Scandinavian design aura of the all-new Volvo V40. R-Design appeals especially to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design.
We have talked to them a lot to ensure that every single detail contributes to the individualistic, refined expression they desire,” says Lex Kerssemakers.
When it comes to seats, customer will have a choice of Nubuk textile or full leather seats, crowned by an embroidered R-design logo with a blue “R”. Full leather seats are available as an option.
The comfortable, in-command driver environment also includes a specially designed steering wheel, gear shifter, handbrake and sport pedals. The unique R-Design aura is enhanced by a combination of new aluminium inlays with a perforated look, black leather, matching stitching and a black headliner.
In South Africa, the all-new Volvo V40 R-Design will be available on two engine derivatives: The V40 D3 Geartronic (110kW / 350Nm) or the high-performance T5 petrol turbo with 187kW and 350 Nm.
“Creating a driving experience that fulfils the R-Design buyers passion for a fast-paced life is not just about speed and acceleration.
Agility and precision are equally important for these performance-minded individuals. The Sport chassis is designed to offer a class-leading, intense driving experience, no matter if you prioritise maximum fuel-efficiency or rapid acceleration,” says Lex Kerssemakers.
The chassis has been developed in cooperation with Swedish racing driver Robert Dahlgren in the Volvo Polestar Black R team.
The Sport chassis is lowered 10 mm compared with the Dynamic chassis. Springs and shock absorbers have a firmer setting, resulting in responsive driving pleasure with full control.
The front McPherson struts have 25 mm piston rods. The stiffness enables the structure to better absorb lateral loads.
At the rear the V40 has monotube dampers, featuring compression and return damping via the same valve. This gives shorter, faster fluid flow, which in turn means that the damper responds more quickly.
Anti-roll bars with an increased diameter also contribute to the sporty drive.
“The V40 R-Design is agile, responsive and fun to drive. The Sport chassis offers the enthusiastic driver a feeling of total control. You get both the connected response that makes a winding country road so much fun as well as the precise, nimble moves it takes to stay on top of busy urban traffic,” says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Car Corporation.
Driver orientated appeal attracts younger buyers too The new Volvo V40 R-Design will be available in all markets that sell the Volvo V40.
Volvo Car Corporation expects that around 10 percent of all V40 buyers will choose the R-Design version.
“Previous R-Design models have played an important role for increasing our sales and for lowering the age of our customer base. We believe that the new V40 R-Design will give this trend another boost,” says Lex Kerssemakers.
In South Africa, the all-new Volvo V40 will be available for test drives at all Volvo dealerships from 15 October, and will go on sale from 15 November 2012, but orders can be placed now.
Initially, Volvo will be launching with the all-new V40 in T3 manual, T4 manual, D2 manual and D3 Geartronic derivatives. The remainder of the local line-up, including the spectacular Volvo V40 R-Design, will be available from February 2013.
All-New V40 Recommended Retail Pricing.
Includes VAT and Emissions tax:
V40 T3 Manual Essential R 281,200
V40 D2 Manual Essential R 283,200
V40 T3 Manual Excel R 299,300
V40 D2 Manual Excel R 301,300
V40 T3 Manual Elite R 313,200
V40 D2 Manual Elite R 315,200
V40 T4 Manual Excel R 316,800
V40 T4 Manual Elite R 330,700
V40 T4 Powershift Excel R 332,600
V40 D3 Geartronic Excel R 339,800
V40 T4 Powershift Elite R 346,500
V40 D3 Geartronic Elite R 353,700
V40 D3 Geartronic R-Design R 363,300
V40 T5 Geartronic Excel R 373,700
V40 T5 Geartronic Elite R 387,600
V40 T5 Geartronic R-Design R 397,100
The new Volvo V40 R-Design is available with the same design and technology as the all-new Volvo V40.
