Currently reading: Polestar offers performance upgrade for Volvo XC60

Volvo's performance sub-brand launches optimisation packs for XC60 hybrid, petrols and diesels, providing extra power and more torque

Polestar, Volvo’s in-house performance brand, has launched a series of upgrades for the Volvo XC60 SUV, including one for the top T8 model that will increase its power output to 415bhp.

The upgrade pack includes optimisations on five areas of the powertrain. Volvo claims that these boost the XC60’s engine performance, accelerator response and gearshift speed and hold. The changes are designed to provide greater power and torque in the middle of the rev range.

“Our goal is to create useable performance in everyday driving situations for Volvo owners who want an enhanced driving experience,” said Henrik Fries, Polestar’s vice president for research and development. “The new XC60 has provided us with an excellent base to work on, with a dynamic chassis and state-of-the-art powertrain.”

The upgrades boost the T8 hybrid model from 401bhp to 415bhp, while retaining the car’s pure electric range of 28 miles.

In the UK, the Polestar upgrades will also be available on the 2.0-litre T5 petrol engine, and the 2.0-litre D4 and 2.4-litre D5 diesel engines. The upgrades boost the latter unit’s power from 231 to 236bhp.  

Pricing and launch dates for the Polestar optimisation packs have yet to be released.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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xxxx 11 July 2017

pointless upgrade

"231 to 236bhp." wonder how much that'll work our per bhp?
Peter Cavellini 11 July 2017

Like the Bull........?!

It won't come cheap,and besides large Vehicles like these shouldn't be doing sport car speeds, and I'm sure most have seen them driven by People who just shouldn't have a License!!