Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design, a compact SUV that blends Scandinavian luxury with sporty performance. If you're in the market for a vehicle that offers a unique combination of style, comfort, and safety, the XC60 R-Design might just be the perfect fit. Let’s explore what makes this car stand out in a crowded segment.

Overview of the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design

The 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is not just another SUV; it's a statement. Volvo has always been synonymous with safety, and the XC60 R-Design carries that legacy forward while adding a dash of sporty flair. This model year is particularly appealing because it represents a sweet spot in Volvo's lineup, offering modern features without the fully digitized interfaces that some newer models have adopted. The R-Design trim enhances the XC60 with unique styling cues, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded interior elements, making it a more engaging and visually appealing option compared to the base models. It’s designed for those who appreciate a touch of sportiness in their everyday drive without sacrificing the comfort and practicality that an SUV provides. Think of it as the stylish athlete of the Volvo family. The exterior boasts a distinctive grille, sporty front and rear fascias, and unique alloy wheels that set it apart. Inside, you'll find supportive sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, and R-Design specific trim details that elevate the cabin's ambiance. These touches aren't just cosmetic; they contribute to a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience. Under the hood, the XC60 R-Design offers a range of engine options, typically including a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine that delivers ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The sport-tuned suspension provides a more controlled and responsive ride, reducing body roll in corners and enhancing overall handling. This makes the XC60 R-Design feel more planted and confident on the road compared to standard XC60 models. Safety, of course, remains a top priority for Volvo, and the XC60 R-Design comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including City Safety collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. In summary, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of style, performance, comfort, and safety. It's a great choice for those who want a premium driving experience with a touch of sporty flair.

Exterior Design

The exterior of the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is where sporty meets sophistication. The R-Design trim gives the XC60 a more aggressive and dynamic look compared to the standard model. Up front, you'll notice the unique R-Design grille with its horizontal mesh pattern and the Iron Mark logo proudly displayed. The front bumper is sculpted with larger air intakes and a more pronounced lower lip, enhancing the SUV's sporty stance. These subtle yet effective changes give the XC60 a more assertive and confident presence on the road. Moving to the side, the R-Design features body-colored side skirts that visually lower the vehicle and contribute to its athletic appearance. The unique alloy wheel designs, typically ranging from 19 to 20 inches, fill the wheel wells nicely and add to the overall visual appeal. These wheels aren't just for show; they also complement the sport-tuned suspension, providing enhanced handling and a more engaging driving experience. At the rear, the R-Design continues its sporty theme with a unique rear bumper that incorporates dual exhaust outlets. This design element not only looks great but also hints at the XC60's performance capabilities. The roof spoiler adds a subtle touch of aggression, while the LED taillights maintain Volvo's signature vertical design, ensuring excellent visibility and a distinctive look at night. The overall design of the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design strikes a balance between elegance and sportiness. It's a vehicle that looks equally at home in the city or on a winding country road. The R-Design enhancements give the XC60 a more youthful and dynamic appeal, making it a standout choice in the crowded compact SUV segment. The attention to detail in the exterior design reflects Volvo's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that the XC60 R-Design not only looks good but also stands the test of time.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design, you're greeted with a cabin that exudes Scandinavian luxury and sporty elegance. The R-Design trim elevates the interior with unique touches that set it apart from the standard XC60. The first thing you'll notice is the supportive and comfortable sport seats, which are upholstered in a combination of leather and Nubuck textile. These seats provide excellent bolstering, keeping you firmly in place during spirited driving, while also offering ample cushioning for long journeys. The R-Design logo is embossed on the seatbacks, adding a touch of exclusivity. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels great in your hands and features paddle shifters, allowing you to take control of the gears and enhance the driving experience. The steering wheel also includes controls for the audio system, cruise control, and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring that all essential functions are within easy reach. The R-Design interior trim includes aluminum inlays on the dashboard and door panels, which add a modern and sophisticated touch. The dark headliner creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere, while the metal pedals and illuminated sill plates further enhance the sporty ambiance. The infotainment system in the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is user-friendly and intuitive, featuring a 7-inch display screen, a premium sound system, and smartphone integration. While it may not be as advanced as the infotainment systems found in newer models, it still offers a comprehensive range of features, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB input. The XC60 R-Design also offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom for adults, while the cargo area offers enough space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the XC60 R-Design a practical choice for families and individuals alike. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is a comfortable and inviting space that combines luxury, sportiness, and practicality. The attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials create a premium driving experience that is sure to impress.

Performance and Handling

The 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design isn't just about looks; it packs a punch under the hood too. The performance and handling of this SUV are where it truly shines, offering a driving experience that's both engaging and refined. The R-Design typically comes with a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine, delivering a robust amount of power. This engine provides brisk acceleration and plenty of torque, making it ideal for both city driving and highway cruising. The supercharger kicks in at low speeds, providing instant throttle response, while the turbocharger takes over at higher speeds, ensuring consistent power delivery throughout the rev range. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, providing quick and seamless gear changes. It also features a sport mode that sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, allowing you to extract the most performance from the engine. The paddle shifters on the steering wheel give you even more control, allowing you to manually select gears for a more engaging driving experience. The sport-tuned suspension is another key element of the XC60 R-Design's performance. It provides a firmer and more controlled ride compared to the standard XC60, reducing body roll in corners and enhancing overall handling. The suspension is still compliant enough to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a comfortable ride, but it also provides a more connected feel to the road. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. It distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, ensuring optimal grip and control. The XC60 R-Design also features a number of electronic stability control systems that help to prevent skidding and maintain control in emergency situations. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. It's easy to maneuver the XC60 R-Design in tight spaces, while also feeling stable and confident at highway speeds. Overall, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design offers a compelling blend of performance and handling. It's a vehicle that's fun to drive, while also being comfortable and refined. The powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and all-wheel-drive system combine to create a driving experience that's sure to impress.

Technology and Safety Features

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design doesn't disappoint. Volvo has always been a leader in safety innovation, and this model is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers. The XC60 R-Design comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including City Safety collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. City Safety uses sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while blind-spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. In addition to these standard features, the XC60 R-Design also offers a number of optional safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, and a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up. The infotainment system in the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is user-friendly and intuitive, featuring a 7-inch display screen, a premium sound system, and smartphone integration. While it may not be as advanced as the infotainment systems found in newer models, it still offers a comprehensive range of features, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB input. The XC60 R-Design also features Volvo's On Call system, which allows you to connect to a call center in the event of an emergency. The On Call system can automatically notify emergency services if you're involved in an accident, and it can also be used to remotely lock and unlock your doors, start your engine, and track your vehicle's location. Overall, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is a technologically advanced and safety-conscious SUV that offers a comprehensive range of features designed to protect you and your passengers. The combination of standard and optional safety technologies, along with the user-friendly infotainment system, makes the XC60 R-Design a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is a standout choice in the compact SUV segment. It masterfully blends Scandinavian luxury with sporty performance, offering a unique and compelling package. From its eye-catching exterior design to its comfortable and well-equipped interior, the XC60 R-Design is a vehicle that's sure to impress. The sporty R-Design enhancements give the XC60 a more aggressive and dynamic look, while the sport-tuned suspension and powerful engine provide an engaging and refined driving experience. The comprehensive suite of safety technologies ensures that you and your passengers are protected on the road, while the user-friendly infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained. Whether you're looking for a stylish and comfortable daily driver or a sporty and capable weekend adventurer, the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design is a vehicle that can do it all. It's a great choice for families, individuals, and anyone who appreciates a blend of luxury, performance, and safety. So, if you're in the market for a compact SUV, be sure to give the 2017 Volvo XC60 R-Design a serious look. You might just find that it's the perfect vehicle for you.