Volvo is now offering performance versions of its T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain for the S60 saloon V60 and XC60 for the UK market. To make these new performance “electrified” models more appealing to potential customers Volvo marketing has created a specific nomenclature. The S60 performance and it’s siblings will now use the rather long-winded suffix of, T8 Polestar Engineered. Look upon the S60 T8 Polestar Engineered as an OEM upgrade and it all starts to make sense.
Upgrades are pertained to the engine, brakes, suspension, automatic transmission and wheels, while exterior and interior design changes provide a justification for your purchase. The 390hp plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine is already offered for the S60 et al.
As such it is the most potent powertrain on offer in the S60, V60 and XC60, but with Polestar’s tuning, output from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is increased from 303hp to 318hp. With 87hp provided by the electric motor, the total system output is 405hp.
The S60 Polestar Engineered is capable of 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds – making it the fastest-accelerating production Volvo to date. Yet Volvo also likes to point out it is also capable of electric-only zero-emissions driving of up to 27.3 miles and fuel economy of 104.5mpg (WLTP Combined cycle).
As with any manufacture claims on hybrid fuel economy you are going to have to divide these figures in half (because they lie).
These new performance models also get a choice of either Brembo or Akebono braking systems and adjustable shock absorbers.
The Polestar Engineered cars get a range of distinctive yet discreet styling features. These include Polestar emblems front and rear, a high-gloss black surround for the black front grille and a black chrome finish for the exhaust tailpipes. On the inside, there are gold-colored seatbelts and a stitched finish for the instrument panel.
The Polestar Engineered models are on sale now, with first deliveries to UK customers due before the end of the year. On-the-road prices are £56,105 for the S60, £57,205 for the V60 and £64,545 for the XC60.
