We’re big fans of the new Volvo V90, and its S90 saloon sibling. They are very good looking cars, and based on the mighty XC90, they ride and handle in a sensibly accomplished manner.

What you see here, though, are the new, sportified R Design versions, ready to rival the Audi S-Lines and BMW M Sports of this world. What difference the R Design treatment makes to the styling will be entirely subjective, but we reckon a pair of already handsome cars are now even smarter to look at.

Changes come in the form of new matt, five-spoke alloy wheels, fresh grilles and fog lights and newly black trim. It’s a subtle makeover from standard, but the keenest, nerdiest eyes (we include ours in that) should spot it.

And as for the dynamics? Well all Volvo will tell us for now is that an “advanced sport chassis delivers an energetic, road-hugging drive.” Given its cars’ strengths typically lie in avoiding the overt firmness of German rivals, instead aiming for stress-busting comfort, we’re not sure if this will be a blessing or not.

Firmer technical details – when they land – should shed some light on just how much sportier these R Design models will be. If a similar balance to the expertly judged, Ohlins-sprung V60 Polestar is on the cards, it should be all good news…