Volvo's->ke3667 trio of R-Design models that we saw at the New York Auto Show are all interesting in their own right. No, you won't see any radical changes nor will you see an interior cabin glittering in gold.

What you will see are subtle modifications and upgrades that makes the V60 look cleaner and more sophisticated while also improving the car's handling capabilities and, for a little premium, performance credentials.

All that can be had with the V60->ke3667 R-Design and the best part is, we don't expect any significant financial repercussions that you'll have to be responsible for should you decide to put money down on a Volvo.

Overall, the V60 R-Design fits right into what Volvo has become within the industry. It's a reflection of a company that shuns the bombastic razzle dazzle in favor of something a little more functional with sprinkles of edginess mixed in between.

Find out more about the Volvo V60 R-Design after the jump

2013 Volvo V60 R-Design

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Volvo V60 R-Design
  • Engine/Motor: T6
  • Horsepower: 329
  • Torque: 324
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Like the other R-Design models that Volvo unveiled at the New York Auto Show, the V60 R-Design received minimal styling modifications, although still enough to distinguish itself from the standard V60 model. A new front fascia was designed, complete with a redesigned nose, a Tech Matte Black grille with high-gloss black stripes, R-Design emblems and a silk metal diagonal. On the backside, the V60 R-Design now comes with a new diffuser in place of the stock one, as well as new aero fins and R-Design tailpipes.

It's not much to go by, really. But when it comes to Volvo, you don't really expect anything to be out of the conventional mold.

Interior

Depending on your definition of "change," you can argue that the V60 R-Design comes with either minimal modifications or overblown upgrades. We're with the first group and though we appreciate the automaker's attempt at ratcheting up the luxury on the V60 R-Design, the modifications don't really do much in the way of blowing us away.

If you're the type to be really meticulous about where you park your backside when you drive, you'll be comforted to know that the V60 R-Design now has a new set of sports seats, which have been wrapped in a blend of black nubuck textile and perforated leather. Additionally, for that good 'ol distinctive mark, Volvo also added embroidered “R-Design” logos on the seats.

Black leather trim with contrast stitching can also be found throughout the interior, as are new stainless-steel tread plates, each with a bright blue "R" in the R-Design emblem, and a new Adaptive Digital Display that comes with three layouts - Elegance, Eco, and Performance - to go with different configurations and functionality.

Performance

The Volvo V60 R-Design comes powered with a choice of powertrain options, including a D2 diesel version that only nets 115 horsepower and a 3.0-liter, six-cylinder T6 gas engine that produces 304 horsepower and 324 pound-feet of torque.

The T6 engine, in particular, can be upgraded to 329 horsepower courtesy of a Polestar software that also charges the V60 R-Design's specially designed sport accelerator pedal.

Chassis

Volvo's R-Design package may not be mind-blowing when you first look at it, but rest assured, it's got some functionality improvements that you won't get to feel until you sit behind the wheel and take the V60 R-Design out for a spin.

The most notable modifications is the stiffer chassis, which now comes with revised shock absorber springs and anti-roll bars, providing improved handling and overall functionality for the station wagon. On top of that, you can also make good use of a number of Volvo-developed technologies, including Corner Traction Control and DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control).

Those aren't sexy sounding, but once you drive the car, you'll understand why they're pretty important.

Pricing

Pricing for the Volvo V60 R-Design will be released at a later date. Rest assured, we'll give updates as soon as the figures become available.

Competition

Station wagons aren't considered one of the sexiest markets to be a part of. The Acura TSX Sport Wagon is one competing model that can give the V60 R-Design a run for its money.

The Acura TSX offers a range of engine options, including a base 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and sprints to 60 mph in a respectable 7.7 seconds. An optional engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 that pumps out 280 horsepower.

The TSX definitely delivers a nice looking exterior. Its sharp lines give it a sporty look. When compared to the V60 R-Design, the TSX has a completely different style, but it is hard to determine which one is better than the other. It basically comes down to what you prefer.

Ultimately, though, if given a choice, we're taking the V60 R-Design over the Acura any day. The V60 delivers more peak power and a faster 0-to-60 mph time, plus a wider variety of engines. Additionally, the TSX doesn’t offer a performance variant and likely never will.

Conclusion

The Volvo V60 R-Design isn't for the young generation, that much we're certain of. But for older folks who have tendencies to enjoy rolling around town in a station wagon, the V60 R-Design is a safe choice as far as the overall package it offers is concerned.

There are more palatable choices out there, but the V60 is a pretty solid choice in its own right.