Global debut for 345bhp Volvo V60 Polestar

The new range-topping 345bhp Volvo V60 Polestar has received its global debut at the Chicago motor show ahead of its arrival in UK showrooms in June.

Volvo's potent new V60, which is expected to cost around £50k, is powered by a tuned version of the manufacturer's existing 3.0-litre single-turbo six-cylinder petrol engine. It has outputs of 345bhp and 369lb ft of torque, a substantial hike over the standard engine's 302bhp and 295lb ft.

The V60 Polestar will be the last performace Volvo to use a six-cylinder engine, the firm having already committed to a four-cylinder-only engine line-up in the future. Future performance Volvos will use four-cylinder engines mated to electric motors for adding boost. 

Volvo says that while both the new V60 Polestar and its saloon S60 Polestar sibling models will be available around the world, it will "continue to deliver on the call for fast estates" by only offering V60 Polestars in the UK. Production numbers will be in the "low hundreds".

Other engine upgrades for Volvo's hot estate include a new intercooler, as well as a performance exhaust system for a more aggressive engine note. The engine is linked to a six-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Polestar has upgraded the transmission for faster changes as well as adding launch control and a new Haldex four-wheel drive system for better torque distribution. It has also recalibrated the stability control system, and added performance brakes at the front and rear.

The V60 Polestar is claimed to be capable of covering the 0-62mph sprint in 4.9 seconds, and reaching 124mph in 17.7 seconds from a standing start. Its top speed is limited to 155mph.

Polestar has also tuned the chassis of the V60, adding a new Ohlins shock absorber system alongside bespoke 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tyres. Despite these changes, the V60 Polestar weighs in at only 130kg heavier than the current top-spec V60, at 1822kg.

As well as the performance modifications, Polestar has added new front splitters as well as a new rear spoiler and diffuser.

Inside, the V60 features a new steering wheel along with sports seats, which are said to increase comfort and support for the driver and passenger alike.

Volvo project manager Henrik Fries said: "Work has been focused on the overall package in order to create a car that you want to use every day, both from a practical and emotional perspective."

Additional reporting by Lewis Kingston, 7 February 2014