Fans of sporty crossovers in India have something to look forward to, as Volvo is launching the Sport version of its highest selling car, the XC90 in the country in November. The XC90 Sport encompasses the handling and driving qualities of a sports sedan with the functionality of an SUV while exuding immense aesthetic appeal.

What sets the XC90 Sport apart from its lesser sibling is the dynamic sports chassis, firmer shock-absorbers, a sport-tuned speed-dependent steering system and larger 19inch alloy wheels. With the chassis, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars being made stiffer, the XC90 Sports has transformed into a crossover which has immense cornering capability, and to add to that is Volvo's self-levelling system, Nivomat, that has been tweaked to offer greater stability and driving control.

The XC90 Sport on the exterior wears double chromed exhaust pipes, distinct 19inch alloy wheels with 5 diamond cut spokes, silver matt finish bumper bar which accentuate the sporty character of the vehicle and exclusive satin finish window frames. The skid plates in the Sport variant have also been given a satin finish instead of the usual chrome and the roof rails found in the regular XC90 have been given a miss.

The customisation of the interior is in good taste and there is no missing the sporty feel to it. Special sporty steering wheel and gear stick with perforated leather and aluminium inlays outline XC90's sporty intentions, and along with the eye-catching leather sport seats with bolstered lateral cushioning and instrument dials with metal chronograph watch-style faces, truly make the interior of the XC90 Sports look a million dollar!

The Sports model is available with a choice of three powertrains that are powerful yet fuel-efficient. All three engines - the 315PS 4.4-litre V8 petrol, 238PS 3.2-litre petrol and a 185PS 2.4-litre diesel are all extremely compact and have been mounted transversely in the engine bay for enhanced safety and a spacious cabin.