The new Volvo V40 R-Design hatchback will lower the average of age of people buying the car, the Swedish car maker says.
The Volvo V40 was launched earlier this year as a competitor to more premium hatchbacks on the market such as the BMW 1 Series and the Lexus CT 200h.
Get a FREE quote on your next VOLVO V40
Click below and save up to 30% on a new VOLVO V40
Now the V40 range has been expanded with the introduction of the R-Design trim, a more sporty design which is already available on other Volvos including the C30 hatchback and S40 saloon.
The goal of the V40 R-Design has been made clear in quotes published today coming from Lex Kerssemakers, the Senior Vice President of Product Strategy and Vehicle Line Management at Volvo.
Kerssemakers explains: "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 all-new V40 R-Design will give this trend another boost".
Volvo estimates that around 10 per cent of new V40 buyers will specify the R-Design model.
What's new on the Volvo V40?
For the V40 the R-Design introduces a distinctive 'Rebel Blue' paintjob for the bodyshell along with five other colours to choose from.
Parts of the exterior are changed to give the V40 a more aggressive look, by adding a re-framed grille design, twin exhaust tailpipes and a central diffuser.
The V40 R-Design also brings in new five-spoke diamond cut wheels in 17" or 18" specification.
Inside there are new sportier designs for most components including the steering wheel, the gearlever and the pedals. The seats are also specified in either full leather or black textile mixed with leather.
The R-Design is available with every current engine option for the Volvo V40. The range starts with the 113bhp D2 diesel engine and finishes with the 251bhp T5 turbocharged petrol engine.
Like other Volvo V40 models, the R-Design can be specified to the standard 'Dynamic' chassis or the optional 'Sport' chassis which results in a lower ride height and adds firmer suspension dampers.