Volvo's sporty V70

Volvo will sell a sporty V70 R-Design from August, with prices starting at 26,745.

The car has lowered, stiffened suspension to improve handling. Styling changes include chrome exhausts, a colour-co-ordinated rear spoiler, a leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Buyers can also opt for an improved rear-seat entertainment system, which now uses larger eight-inch screens and costs 1350. For 400, buyers can also opt for a digital television receiver.

R-Design models are priced at 1750 above standard SE trim.

• SE Lux models are to get a price rise. They'll cost 380 more from August, but will come with active headlights, heated washer nozzles and revised instrument dials as standard.