Volvo XC90 R-Design reveal

The first images and details of Volvo's hotted-up XC90 R-Design large SUV have emerged, following the regular model's global reveal in August 2014.

Tipped to be one of the most expensive vehicles Volvo has ever offered in Australia when it arrives here in May 2015, the sportified XC90 will be pitched at buyers who want a little more razzle dazzle than the entry-level and top-shelf models, featuring a number of exterior upgrades, including massive 22-inch alloy wheels.

Volvo says the new sporty seven-seater "radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look".

As the photos reveal, the spiffy XC90 R-Design variant gains new grille work, matt silver mirrors, integrated rear exhaust pipes, contrasting roof rails, silk metal window trim and a mild body kit. The latter adds a sporty front spoiler with new fascia and the rear bumper has been slightly redesigned.

Power is expected to come from the same engines offered in the regular XC90, which max out with a 300kW turbo and supercharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. Although the XC90 will be up 125kg lighter than its predecessor it will still be a heavy hauler, but with 640Nm at low revs, the hybrid setup will be enough to drag the car to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds, a time worthy of its R-Design badges.

Other, less powerful (and more affordable) engines are also expected to be offered with the R-Design XC90.

Changes to the car's interior will inform anyone who steps inside that this is no ordinary European SUV, with new sports seats, a perforated leather steering wheel and R-Design illuminated scuff plates communicating the vehicle's status. Other additions include R-Design pedals, floor mats and gear shifter.

Owners will also get an 'exclusive' R-Design leather key remote control.

Volvo Car's Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service, Alain Visser, reckons the new model will appeal to buyers who have "a passion for things that add spice to life".

"It appeals to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design. Every single R-Design detail is designed to contribute to the individualistic and refined expression these customers desire," he says.

The Volvo marketing executive says the XC90 line-up has been rearranged to create more appeal, confirming that the R-Design would be a range-topping model.

"In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasise each of their distinctive individual personalities," said Visser.

Volvo Australia was contacted as to whether the R-Design XC90 will be offered in Australia and is yet to respond.

Check out the Volvo XC90 video for a sneak peak of the car in action.