2017 Volvo V60 R-Design: A Scandinavian Performance Wagon

Exterior Styling and R-Design Cues

The 2017 Volvo V60 R-Design sits between the Momentum and Inscription trims, offering a visual language tuned for buyers who want a wagon that looks ready for a mountain road rather than a country club driveway. The front fascia features a prominent, flattened "Thor's Hammer" LED daytime running light signature stacked above a larger, more aggressive intake opening. A unique front skid plate and gloss-black grille surround differentiate the R-Design from lesser trims. On the sides, the body adopts a wider stance through black plastic wheel arch extensions, while the roofline maintains the V60's clean, descending line toward the rear. A rear spoiler and dual exhaust tips complete the exterior package, signaling a more dynamic character without crossing into full luxury territory.

Standard 18-inch alloy wheels in a five-spoke design are fitted with performance-oriented tires, giving the wagon a planted stance on the road. The R-Design badge appears on the rear quarters and steering wheel, marking the car's specific identity within the Volvo V60 lineup. Color options often include darker metallic tones that suit the sporty theme, though buyers can choose from the full Volvo palette.

Interior Materials and Sport-Oriented Cabin

Step inside, and the 2017 Volvo V60 R-Design replaces the softer touches of higher trims with a more tactile, driver-focused environment. The cabin combines dark-finished surfaces with contrasting white or silver stitching on the seats and steering wheel, a hallmark of the R-Design aesthetic. Soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels remain consistent with Volvo's standard quality, but the additions of aluminum trim and a flat-bottomed steering wheel push the atmosphere toward a European sports wagon feel. The seats offer bolstered side support, a practical benefit for spirited driving, while the rear seats still fold down to accommodate longer cargo, preserving the wagon's core utility.

The Sensus infotainment system carries over with a vertical touchscreen, city safety features, and a premium audio system. The R-Design steering wheel includes thicker padding and audio controls, while the instrument cluster adopts a dark background with white needles, reinforcing the sporty read.

Performance and Chassis Adjustments

Underneath, the 2017 Volvo V60 R-Design shares its mechanical platform with other V60 trims but includes specific tuning aimed at improved handling. The standard powertrain is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Volvo's intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This combination allows the wagon to accelerate to 60 mph in roughly 6.2 seconds while maintaining the composure expected from a front-wheel-drive-based platform.

The R-Design adds stiffer springs and dampers, a thicker rear stabilizer bar, and a tuned exhaust that provides a more pronounced sound under acceleration. Volvo also offers a Polestar Engineered variant in this generation, but the R-Design trim provides a more accessible entry point into a performance-oriented wagon experience, with handling that feels adjusted without becoming harsh on日常 commutes.

Comparison with Other V60 Trims

To understand the R-Design's role in the 2017 Volvo V60 range, consider how it stacks up against other available trims. The Momentum trim emphasizes comfort and standard features at a lower price point, while the Inscription trim focuses on wood interior trim and a more refined, luxury-oriented atmosphere. The R-Design splits the difference by offering sportier aesthetics and chassis adjustments without abandoning the premium materials and safety technology that define the Volvo brand.

Who Was the 2017 V60 R-Design For?

The 2017 Volvo V60 R-Design targets buyers who need the practicality of a wagon but refuse to sacrifice driving engagement. Its design speaks to an audience that values Scandinavian restraint yet wants a car that looks and feels distinct from a family minivan or a luxury sedan. The R-Design's blend of utility, safety technology, and subtle performance upgrades makes it a compelling choice in the premium wagon segment, particularly for those who prioritize a clean, modern aesthetic over flashier sporty badges.