Volvo is stepping up its game in premium hot-hatches. Yesterday we brought you news of the C30 Polestar edition exclusive to the United States. Now the Swedish automaker has announced a similar treatment for the newer European-market V40. Scheduled to be publicly unveiled this month at the Paris Motor Show, the V40 R-Design features a number of sporty cues for a more aggressive take on the new five-door hatch.

The new V40 R-Design is distinguished by satin-finish trim, redesigned front bumper with LED daytime running lights and active xenon headlights, rear diffuser and twin exhaust pipes. The cabin is upgraded with perforated leather and high-tech features like keyless start and ambient lighting. Five-spoke diamond-cut wheels can be had in 17- or 18-inch diameters, and buyers can choose from seven color choices, including the trademark Rebel Blue pictured here. The R-Design trim can be specified with any of the engines in the V40 range, from an eco-friendly 115-horsepower diesel to the 254-horsepower turbo five.