Continuing the trend started by the original 850 T5 and T5-R, the latest R-models will attract customers who want high performance and pin-sharp handling without sacrificing traditional Volvo virtues such as world-class build quality and safety. With the latest derivatives however, customers can choose between two different models and two different drive packages. The S70R saloon and V70R estate remain as before, but customers now have the option of the estate model fitted with Volvo's sophisticated All-Wheel-Drive system. The AWD system used in the V70R AWD has been optimised to match the high performance and uses a viscous coupling to automatically distribute power and retain the best possible level of grip. The two different drive packages on offer both use five-cylinder turbocharged engines and are available with two or four-wheel drive on the estate. They are as follows:

2.3-litre, 250bhp with five-speed manual gearbox and a visco-differential fitted to front-wheel drive models.

2.3-litre, 240bhp with four-speed, three-mode automatic gearbox

Lowered sports chassis

The Volvo S70/V70R has a lowered sports chassis. In front-wheel drive versions the rear-wheel suspension is of the Delta-link type, while the AWD model has Volvo's newly-developed Multi-link system with automatic levelling in a new low chassis setting. The unique five-spoke R-wheels (16" or 17" depending on the choice of engine) are available both in silver chrome or graphite grey and complement the five exterior colours on offer: Saffron. Black, Silver metallic, Regent-red metallic and Nautic blue pearl.

Unique new interior

The exclusive interior has been designed to match the sporting intentions of the new S70/V70R. The panels and tunnel console are now trimmed in patterned aluminium, while birch or black walnut is optional. The upholstery is an exclusive combination of leather and Alcantara® and comes in light beige or dark grey. The leather-trimmed steering wheel also has an Alcantara® inlay.

New to the R-models are blue instruments, but what is more familiar is the high level of standard equipment. Climate control including a pollen filter is fitted to all cars, as is a trip computer, electric windows, remote-controlled alarm, electronic immobiliser, cruise control, electrically-adjustable driver's seat with three position memory, fog lamps, stainless steel sills and textile carpets with the R emblem. Should the driver wish for aural pleasure outside of the spine-tingling engine note, they will find the audio experience in the S70/V70R out of the ordinary too. An eight-speaker big-front radio with front loaded CD player is provided as standard. However, there is the further option of a big-front radio with front-loaded CD player for three discs linked to a 4x50W amplifier and nine speakers. Dolby® Surround Sound and Prologic® provide the occupants with a high quality concert hall sound. The Volvo S70/V70R also features world-class safety with SIPS side-impact protection, side airbags, driver's airbag (a passenger airbag is an option), three-point inertia-reel belts and head restraints on all five seats as well as belt tensioners and automatic height adjustment of the front belts.