2018 Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design

2018 Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design Sport Utility 4D: Elegant Design With a Distinctive R-Design Personality

The 2018 Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design Sport Utility 4D is a midsize luxury SUV that blends Scandinavian elegance with athletic character, advanced technology, and impressive family practicality.

While many three-row SUVs focus heavily on size and utility, the XC90 takes a more refined approach, offering sophisticated styling, a beautifully designed cabin, confident performance, and a strong collection of standard safety systems. The R-Design trim adds a sportier personality to Volvo's already distinctive SUV, making this XC90 appealing to drivers who want the practicality of three-row transportation without giving up style or driving enjoyment.

The exterior has a clean, modern appearance highlighted by Volvo's signature grille, LED headlights, alloy wheels, roof rails, privacy glass, and panoramic moonroof. R-Design-specific touches give the XC90 a more aggressive presence, including a unique black grille and 20-inch alloy wheels. The result is an SUV that looks upscale without being overly flashy. Its proportions also contribute to a confident road presence while maintaining the understated sophistication that has long been associated with Volvo design.

Turbocharged and Supercharged Performance
Under the hood, the 2018 Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design uses Volvo's innovative 2.0-liter Drive-E four-cylinder engine equipped with both a turbocharger and supercharger. This combination produces a strong 316 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 2,200 rpm. Power is delivered through an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system.

Despite being powered by a four-cylinder engine, the XC90 T6 feels considerably stronger than its displacement might suggest. The combination of forced induction provides responsive acceleration across a broad range of driving conditions, and the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds. That gives the XC90 enough punch for highway merging, passing, and everyday city driving while maintaining the composed character expected from a luxury SUV. A listed top speed of approximately 130 mph further demonstrates its performance-oriented nature.

The standard all-wheel-drive system adds another layer of confidence. Whether dealing with rain, snow, slippery pavement, or changing road conditions, AWD helps the XC90 maintain traction and stability. The SUV is also rated to tow up to 5,200 pounds when properly equipped, making it capable of handling recreational equipment, a trailer, or other moderate towing responsibilities.

Sporty R-Design Interior
Inside, the XC90 T6 R-Design delivers one of its strongest impressions. Volvo's minimalist Scandinavian design philosophy creates a cabin that feels clean, modern, and upscale. High-quality materials, a thoughtfully arranged center console, leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, metal mesh interior accents, and carefully integrated controls give the cabin a premium atmosphere.

The R-Design package enhances the interior with distinctive sport contour seats, steering-wheel paddle shifters, and additional trim details that reinforce the vehicle's athletic character. The front seats are designed to provide both comfort and support, making the XC90 well suited to longer drives. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel add comfort during colder weather, while dual power front seats allow occupants to find a comfortable driving position.

The three-row layout is another major advantage. With seating for up to seven passengers, the XC90 provides useful second- and third-row space for a midsize luxury SUV. The second row offers practical room for family members, while the third row provides additional seating when needed.

Folding rear seats also allow the cabin to transition from passenger tra