XC90 gets the gigolo treatment

Nordic brand Volvo has quite a naughty streak which it has kept in check for a long time now.

However, looking briefly into the past there's evidence of this secret penchant for mischief. The Volvo 850R comes to mind, the manic S40T and more recently, a once-off special C30 with huge power, and the new V60 range.

For those seeking outward sportiness from a Volvo, look to R-Design, which is the company's "pimping" wing.

Interestingly, Volvo has made efforts to trick out its ranges over the years - but it seems to have deliberatelyneglected the big mama of the family, the XC90.

A few years ago, Volvo inserted a V8 in front and gave it a mildly exciting alloy, but that was it.

Since then, the large SUV has settled into the shadow of standard-trim in the presence of aggressive peers such as the Mercedes ML 63 AMG, BMW X5M and Range Rover Sport.

Our Swiss friend Heico Sportiv, which brought us the delectable V60 with quad-tail pipes not long ago, has said "enough is enough", and has introduced a styling package exclusively for the XC90.

The kit consists of six central components to jazz up this ageing crossover. These include a revised front bumper, which is quite similar to that of the standard car except for minor changes on the bottom of the valance where Heico has added bulge.

The pimps have also relinquished the shiny running plate in front of the XC90, thereby somewhat restricting its off-road driving protection in the name of good looks.

Viewed from the rear, the new bumper format doesn't stray too much from the Volvo grade idea, and is designed to not compromise on inherent safety systems. Customers can order as is or opt to have four bazookas fitted at the rear. I'd go this way.

To bolster the looks further, extended side skirts are fitted which ensure a slightly "slammed" road stance, while ten-spoke, 20-inch alloy rims are fitted standard. If you don't fancy this set of boots, Heico offers an even more striking, smoked five-spoke variant.

Sad news for velocity junkies, though, is there's no mention of engine modifications to enhance power output. I'm of the opinion that this oversight is not bad, as ultimately the XC90 is a vehicle that is too large to be juiced.

However, Heico has also worked on an optional sport suspension to give this hot XC90 the road grip to match the gigolo looks.

Speaking on behalf of this project, Heico Sportiv chief executive Holger Hedtke says: "Our new body kit gives dealerships an opportunity to offer additional buying incentives. Around the globe, the Volvo XC90 has an unwavering fan club that will applaud the self-assured design.

I'm in agreement, Hedtke - and as an added feather in the cap of pimped Volvo SUVs, the R-Design XC60 is a breathtakingly beautiful creation. And since Volvo is taking its own time in making the call to roll out an R-Design XC90, in the spirit and business of satisfying Volvo fans, we say "press on".

The cool Heico styling package is said to fit all XC90s produced from 2007 onwards.