VOLVO recently extended its V60 estate range by adding a new R-Design variant – and the results are impressive.

With the focus on sportier styling and more dynamic handling, the Swedish firm expects this jazzed-up trim level to become the best-selling grade in the UK V60 range.

The V60 R-Design gets sports-tuned suspension, high-gloss black exterior trim, 18 or 19-inch alloys, and a raft of high-end leather detailing inside.

While the V60 was already causing a stir in the fleet market with its class-leading practicality, Volvo feels this more eye-catching version will appeal to "user-choosers and fleet decision makers."

Prices for the R-Design start at £35,410 for the D3 manual model, with R-Design Pro versions, such as the one tested here, available from £37,660.

In terms of looks, it is instantly recognisable because a number of exterior features have amplified the V60's lines. The high-gloss black finish on the mesh front grille is a nice touch, while the same treatment has been given to the door mirror housings, window frames and integrated roof rails.

Meanwhile, the twin tailpipes give the car’s rear end a dynamic appearance.

Behind the wheel, there's a nice balance to be found between performance and economy.

While the 0-62mph time of under eight seconds is sufficiently swift in most situations, there's an equal amount of satisfaction to be had from the average fuel economy figure of over 60mpg.

And CO2 emissions on this D4 manual car come in from as little as 122g/km.

For versatile everyday use, this 2.0-litre D4 diesel feels to be a right-sized engine for a vehicle of these proportions.

The tweaks made by the Volvo engineers have a noticeable impact on the driving experience, with R-Design versions using sports-tuned suspension that delivers a more engaging drive, with stiffer spring rates, faster-responding monotube dampers, thicker anti-roll bars and a 12mm lower ride height.

It all adds up to confidence-inspiring handling as the vehicle feels well-planted when tackling tighter corners.

Various different drive modes can be selected to adjust the driving characteristics, with Dynamic mode making the steering much heavier and increasing the responsiveness of the brake pedal.

The cabin continues the R-Design-interpretation, providing more edginess and flare than a standard Volvo interior. Sports pedals and a soft-touch sports leather steering wheel contribute to the more flamboyant vibe.

The snug front seats are fitted with part-leather upholstery, cushion extensions and multi-directional lumbar support. The amount of space and adjustment available to the front seat occupants creates a recipe for relaxation.

Meanwhile, rear seat passengers also enjoy generous legroom and a central rear armrest with built-in storage and cupholders. The V60 also provides class-leading boot space. In essence, the uncluttered and well laid-out interior is still that of a functional family or fleet car, with a dollop of panache added into the mix.

The R-Design features are in addition to the generous standard V60 equipment list, which includes a nine-inch touchscreen control system, two-zone climate control, automatic headlights with active high beam, 12.3-inch driver's information display and a powered tailgate.

All models also come with Volvo's advanced City Safety suite of collision-avoidance aids, along with Sensus connectivity, including satellite-navigation, voice-activated control and a 10-speaker audio system.

Volvo has at times been associated with older owners, but the current model line up - including this offering - will undoubtedly bring their vehicles to the attention of younger buyers too.

Volvo V60 D4 R-DESIGN PRO MANUAL

PRICE: £38,660 on the road

ENGINE: 2.0-litre diesel, four cylinders, 190PS

PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds and top speed of 137mph

ECONOMY: 61.4mpg combined and emissions of 122g/km

TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual