Volvo's Transformation Lies with Polestar

As you may know, Volvo entered a new generation starting with theXC60. Following that were the "S60," "V60," and "V40," all featuring sporty styling and driving dynamics. For Volvo, which had previously emphasized safety above all else, this represented a significant transformation.


So, what exactly is happening at Volvo? The key lies with "Polestar."


Polestar is the creator of the "Polestar Performance Package" released by Volvo. This involves installing a dedicated program to enhance power. Last year, it was for the T6 engine, and this year,it was introduced for T4 engine vehicles, boosting output to 329hp for the former and 200hp for the latter.

Furthermore, in April of this year, they didn't just offer engine ROM tuning but also announced the "S60 Polestar," a complete car. Equipped with Öhlins-made dedicated dampers, Brembo brakes, a rear wing, and a diffuser, its styling was quite race-inspired.


Their signature engine tuning also achieved 350hp with a larger turbo, new intercooler, and racing exhaust. Moreover, they even modified the Haldex all-wheel-drive system and added launch control. This is a far cry from the simple appeal of a square badge.

And so, I finally visited Polestar's headquarters in Sweden. The officially certified Volvo tuning company was revealed.

Born from Racing

In a nutshell, they are a racing team. They receive cars from their official partner, Volvo, modify them into race cars, and compete in series. In other words, they are also a constructor. Specifically, they entered the Swedish Touring Car Championship and won the championship this year. Their partner was an "S60" with over 500 horsepower.


This race, commonly known as STCC, is held with reference to the BTCC regulations in the UK. The series consists of 12 races held at 8 circuits. Sweden is surprisingly a country where racing is popular; similar to Japan,Porschecups are also held. Although the race season is short, from May to September, due to the harsh climate, it seems quite intense battles unfold.

Polestar, active in such an environment, did not initially have a partnership with Volvo. When they started racing in 1996, they were privateers who bought a Volvo "850" that competed in BTCC and entered it in their national races. Later, they made a name for themselves with the "S40," the first-generation "S60," and the "C30." As a result, they have now reached the point of releasing complete cars.


So, how is Polestar's first complete car? In fact, I had the chance to get behind the wheel at the very circuit used for STCC.

While Enhancing the Limits, Ride Comfort is Maintained

The first thing that impressed me was the engine sound. It was a racing exhaust note that made you wonder, "Is this a Volvo?" The change in tone around 4,000 rpm was particularly good, making me want to push it towards the higher rev range.


And the acceleration—here, Volvo's characteristic broad torque band powerfully propels the car forward. This is where you feel the thrill of 350hp. However, due to the sheer abundance of torque, frequent gear changes can actually be a hindrance. This is part of its character, and a bit of getting used to is required to drive it fast.


The ride comfort isn't excessively stiff, and minor pitching is not bothersome. There's a noticeable amount of body roll in corners, suggesting that ride comfort has been maintained while pushing the performance limits. Additionally, the braking power from the Brembo calipers left a strong impression. Their capacity could likely handle even higher-output engines.

This is the Polestar complete car. While the "R-DESIGN" is also appealing, this one is certainly worth considering. Actually getting behind the wheel has heightened my anticipation for its introduction in Japan.


At the same time, I realized that the existence of partners like this is what drives Volvo's current performance. Not only the current models but also future models yet to be announced hold great promise. I look forward to Polestar's future as well.

Volvo S60 Polestar

Volvo V60 Polestar

Weight | (S60) 1,752 kg (V60) 1,822 kg

Engine | 2,953cc Inline 6-cylinder DOHC 24-valve Twin-scroll Turbo

Max. Power | 257kW (350ps) / 5,700 rpm

Max. Torque | 500Nm / 2,800-4,750 rpm

Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (with paddle shifters)

Drivetrain | 4WD

Brakes Front | Ventilated Discs (φ371x32mm Brembo)

Brakes Rear | Ventilated Discs (φ302x22mm)

Tires Front/Rear | 245/35R20

0-100km/h Acceleration | 4.9 seconds

Top Speed | 250 km/h (limited)