Volvo launches Polestar Engineered performance versions of the S60, V60 and XC60

Volvo has launched Polestar Engineered versions of the T8 plug-in-hybrid models in its XC60, V60 and S60 line-ups. This specification includes a power increase, a tweaked gearbox, chassis upgrades and styling revisions. All three cars can be ordered now, with the S60 starting from £56,105, going up to £57,207 for the V60 estate and £64,545 for the XC60 SUV.

The Polestar Engineered upgrades have been designed by Volvo’s sister brand Polestar, as the manufacturer aims to make its cars more competitive with more sporty rivals. Rather than going for all-out performance, the Polestar Engineered trim level is designed to put the new S60 and V60 in contention with second tier models the Audi S4 and BMW M340i, with the XC60 taking on rivals like the BMW X3 M Performance SUV.

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As standard, T8-powered 60-series Volvos have a 385bhp 2.0-litre petrol-electric powertrain; the Polestar Engineered boosts this to 400bhp. The upgrade makes the S60 Polestar Engineered saloon the fastest car in the firm’s model range, with a 0-62mph time of 4.4 seconds. The V60 estate is a shade behind taking 4.6 seconds from 0-62mph, while the XC60 SUV completes the dash in 5.4 seconds.

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The S60 and V60 can produce claimed fuel economy figures of up to 104.5mpg with CO2 emissions of 48g/km. Both cars have a pure-electric driving ranges of 27.3 miles. The XC60 can achieve a claimed fuel economy figure of 88.2mpg, with CO2 emissions of 56g/km and a pure-electric driving range of 22.4 miles.

On the handling front, the XC60, V60 and S60 all get Ohlins adjustable suspension and a front strut brace. Brake upgrades for the S60 and V60 consist of a set of grooved brake discs and more powerful Brembo monobloc brake calipers. The XC60 gets a similar upgraded braking setup manufactured by Akebono.

Cosmetic exterior upgrades include a gloss black radiator grille, gold-painted brake calipers and larger tailpipes finished in black chrome, along with a smattering of Polestar badges. Unique lightweight 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels are fitted to the S60 and V60 with the XC60 getting larger 21-inch alloy wheels. Interior tweaks are limited to bespoke sports seats and gold seatbelts on all models.

Do you want to know more about the current Volvo range? Read our in-depth guide to the new Volvo XC40 Recharge electric car.