PRICES and specification details for Volvo’s new, high performance S60 R and V70 R models, expected in showrooms early this summer, have now been released.

Volvo has also announced it is increasing XC90 production and an additional 900 cars are destined for UK delivery later this year.

A further production increase is scheduled for 2004.

Planning ahead for these additional cars and 2004 production, the XC90’s 2002 launch prices have now been slightly revised.

On the road prices for the S60 R:

* S60 R (six-speed manual) £34,145

* S60 R(Geartronic) £35,395

With 300bhp, sub-six seconds 0-62mph performance, the latest Haldex AWD and one of the most advanced active chassis systems ever seen on a road car, Volvo’s S60 R takes on high performance saloon rivals such as the Mercedes C32 AMG and Audi S4.

Its standard specification includes such features as:

* Bi-xenon headlights

* 17in or 18in alloy wheels with discreet R logo

* Haldex AWD

* ‘Four-C’ adaptive chasssis with Comfort, Sport and Advanced settings

* Luxurious, soft metallic leather upholstery

* Premium audio system with 4xCD and nine speakers

* R sports seats and Electronic Climate Control with Air Quality System.

Naturally it has a high level of safety features too, including an inflatable curtain down each side of the car for protection against side impacts and Volvo’s WHIPS anti-whiplash front seats.

Desirable options include Atacama natural leather upholstery and a communications pack which includes a satellite navigation system with a DVD covering all of Europe, with or without a TV and an integrated hands-free GSM telephone.

The on the road prices for the manual and Geartronic V70 R are:

* V70 R (six-speed manual) £37,660

* V70 R (Geartronic) £38,910