2009 Volvo C30 T5 R-Design Review

What R-Design is all about
My tester featured 18-inch Atreus alloy wheels (instead of the standard 16s). However, as stylish as they may be, these wheels need bigger, pricier tires when winter comes around. Sixteen-inch rubber proves not only cheaper but also much more competent in the snow.

The R-Design Package includes stylish 18-inch alloy wheels.

The C30 T5's R-Design Package also includes dual exhaust tips, chromed mirror caps, a rear spoiler that does not compromise visibility, sport dials and pedals as well as aluminum inlays on the dashboard and gearshift knob.

Meanwhile, the black Vulcaflex seat upholstery incorporates a contrasting cream-colored leather insert. A discreet R-Design logo is embossed on the front seatbacks, which feature cream-colored stitching and generous support.

Outside, the lower body kit emphasizes the smooth lines of the C30. Volvo offers either body-colored rocker panels or a two-tone exterior. The latter is well executed and, as far as I can tell from my road test, it turns a lot of heads.

Fortunately, the R-Design Package is not merely about style. It also improves the quality of the driving experience with powerful xenon lights, headlamp washers and power-adjustable front seats (or just the driver's seat in the case of the C30 2.4i R-Design).

Here you go, mæstro!
My tester even came with the Dynaudio Package. This 650-watt, 10-speaker Pro Logic II system delivers outstanding sound reproduction, something that will delight music lovers for the entire duration of the trip. Once again, there's a hefty price attached to it ($1,000).

Sport dials and pedals as well as aluminum inlays on the dashboard and gearshift knob.