New Volvo XC60 Polestar upgrade ups power to 415bhp

Volvo's new XC60 has only just arrived in showrooms, yet the carmaker has already released a Polestar upgrade pack for several models in the range. The engine and gearbox benefit from tweaks to boost performance, with the flagship T8 hybrid now boasting 415bhp.

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The Polestar pack, which has been developed in conjunction with motorsport partner Cyan Racing, is said to "transform engine performance, throttle response, off-throttle response, gearshift speed and hold". Torque delivery in the mid-range is also improved, according to Volvo. 

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The standard T8 plug-in offers 401bhp and manages 0-62mph in 5.3 seconds, so the Polestar revisions are likely to see that reduced to or just below the five-second mark. Volvo says it is still capable of 134mpg, and manages 28 miles on electric power only. 

”Our goal is to create usable performance in everyday driving situations for Volvo owners who want an enhanced driving experience,” said Polestar's Henrik Fries. “The new XC60 has provided us with an excellent base to work on with a dynamic chassis and a state of the art powertrain. With the Polestar optimisation, it makes the new Volvo XC60 a true drivers’ car.”

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The Polestar pack is also available on the petrol T6 model, plus the D5 and D4 diesels, although we only know the output of the T8 Twin Engine so far. Pricing details for the XC60's upgrades have not yet been released, but expect to be able to order the SUV with it in the next few weeks. 

Would you be won over by a 415bhp Volvo XC60? Let us know in the comments section below...