The form evolves from a basic wedge-shape, with a high tail and low prow capped by Volvo's signature diagonal-slash grille. Hard creases in the bowed hood taper from canted A-pillars down to the sides of the grille, and thrust it forward as the leading edge of the vehicle. Headlight clusters unified behind curving polycarbon lenses notch into recesses flanking the grille, while body-colored bumpers trimmed with black molding wrap around the Volvo's face to meet the front wheel wells.

Above prominent rolled shoulders, roof pillars and side glass curve inward to meet the roof panel, softening hard corners and diminishing the visual massiveness of the wagon's rear bay. The rear liftgate also bows slightly in a curvy profile, but maintains an essentially vertical plane to maximize interior cargo space. Composed of steel-reinforced polyresin fiberglass, the back door tucks between two thin vertical taillights mounted high in a format carried over from the previous wagon.