What’s hot?

• The V40 R-Design package is available with the full range of V40 engine choices. That means that the R-Design’s special looks can be combined with the super-frugal 78.5 mpg 1.6-litre D2 diesel or a wide selection of more powerful petrol and diesel options for owners who need a bit more poke; these include the five-cylinder D3 and D4 diesels, the T3 and T4 four-cylinder 1.6 petrols, and the four-wheel drive three-litre T5 petrol.
• The 1.6 D2 has enough performance and refinement for most drivers on UK roads, but thanks to its 94g/km emissions, it will continue to benefit from the 100 per cent first year write-down allowance after April 2013.
• The D2 also scores well on company car taxation with costs of as little as £47.11 per month for 20 per cent taxpayers and £94.22 for 40 per cent taxpayers (though the R-Design is marginally more).
  

  

• Seven colour choices, including the vivid Rebel Blue help the V40 R-Design stand out from the crowd, as well as unique front and rear bumpers with a lower spoiler and LED running lights at the front and diffuser with twin tail pipes and a chrome surround at the rear; a silk metal finish grille frame and door mirror caps finish off the look.
• V40 R-Design models are available in two specification levels – R-Design, priced from £22,295 and R-Design Lux.
• The V40 R-Design gets the Volvo SENSUS infotainment system, which uses Bluetooth to provide music streaming and hands-free mobile use.

What’s not?

•  While the additional cost of the R-Design package is fairly modest, most business-friendly essentials such as Bluetooth and sat nav can be specified on cheaper variants
• The increased price of the R-Design also makes the V40 look expensive compared with highly competent mainstream rivals such as the latest versions of the Volkswagen Golf, Seat Leon and Ford Focus.

Business Car Manager road test verdict

The R-Design model builds on the attractions of the Volvo V40 for company car drivers. Space, comfort, a competent chassis and low emissions are combined with a bit more visual excitement than the standard car provides.

Company car drivers get a distinctive looking car for very little company car tax, while business car managers will approve of the competitive business car leasing rates – or if buying, the enhanced cash flow – provided by the 100% first year allowance.

But this is a crowded market and the higher price of the R-Design makes the V40 start to look a bit expensive against non-premium and even some premium rivals.

Both business and company car drivers are being spoiled for choice.

Volvo V40 D2 R-Design Nav

The Low Down…

…and what it costs