2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
Individuality is now also very important at Volvo. The Swedes are offering a new design package for three models. In combination with the V50 T5 AWD, it makes a good impression.
When you think of Volvo, you think of reliable, extremely safe vehicles. One thinks of vehicles that have been driven by generations of teachers. Apart from this cliché, there is only one thing they think of at least - sporty, dynamic cars.
R-design for three models
To change this image, the Swedes are now offering the R-Design package for the C30, S40 and V50 models. Further models are to follow gradually from next year. The fact that you can give a Volvo a sporty look is nothing new. Because the history of the R-Modell began back in 1994, when the Swedes launched their first R-Model with the Volvo 850 T-5R.
But while these sporty and dynamic special models were sometimes only available with the top engine and one color, the R-Design package, which costs between 1530 and 4050 euros, can also be ordered with the basic engine, depending on the model. “With our new R design package, we want to get young people in particular interested in the Volvo brand, who place particular value on sportiness and individuality,” said Volvo spokesman Olaf Meidt.
17-inch alloy wheels
The design package has a so-called body kit consisting of a front and rear apron, side skirts in the same color as the car and rear and roof spoilers - which can also be canceled if that's too grumpy. The exterior appearance is rounded off by 17-inch alloy wheels and exterior mirrors in a chrome look. In the interior, when ordering the design package, customers receive seats with partial leather covers, a sports steering wheel, silver pedals and round instruments with a blue background.
Whether it makes sense, however, to equip a V50 or an S40 with only 125 hp with an R-package and to pretend more power is something everyone has to decide for themselves. But with a car like the Volvo V50 T5 AWD we tested, things look very different. The station wagon not only comes with all-wheel drive from home, but also has a 2.5-liter five-cylinder petrol engine with 169 kW / 230 PS under the hood. That is an achievement that ensures proper propulsion. The maximum torque of 320 Nm is available from 1500 rpm. available and is up to 5000 rpm. at.
In 7.1 seconds to 100 km / h
The 1552 kilogram heavy Swedish station wagon accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.1 seconds with the well-coordinated six-speed manual transmission. With the automatic transmission it is 0.4 seconds longer. According to the manufacturer, consumption is 9.6 liters and CO2 emissions are a high 229 g / km.
Good AWD system
The chassis of the Volvo V50 T5 AWD leaves a good impression after the test drives in the Taunus. The balancing act between sportiness and comfort has been successful. Under normal road conditions, 95 percent of the driving force is on the front axle. If, however, slip occurs, the Haldex clutch transfers up to 65 percent of the forces to the rear axle. The combination of the R-package and all-wheel drive suits the Volvo V50 perfectly and gives it significantly more contour. With a view to the competition from Munich or Ingolstadt, however, more power would not only look good on the V50. The starting price for the Volvo V50 T5 AWD starts at 36,160 euros.
