Text by WASEDA Kosaku (OPENERS)

Polestar is Volvo Cars' performance brand. Founded in 1996 as a motorsport team, Polestar has competed in races based on Volvo cars, achieving numerous championship victories.First complete models based on S60/V60were released in 2014. Currently, Volvo Cars has deepened its collaboration by acquiring Polestar's performance division.

This is the third release in Japan for the new S60 Polestar and V60 Polestar,90 units in the first year,50 units last year, followed by 50 units last year, this time they will be introduced as a limited edition of 100 units. This model is packed with technology from the S60 Polestar TC1 racing car, which competes in the WTCC from the 2016 season.

The powertrain is based on the new generation 2-liter 4-cylinder Drive-E engine, with performance enhanced through modifications such as a larger turbocharger, strengthened supercharger, revised connecting rods and camshafts, and an increased-capacity fuel pump. It produces a maximum output of 367 ps and a maximum torque of 47.9 kgm. This surpasses the performance of the previous 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine, with the S60 Polestar achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and the V60 Polestar in 4.9 seconds.


The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, and with the BorgWarner 4WD system and the newly adopted Sport+ mode, drivers can enjoy driving regardless of road conditions. Additionally, it is equipped with upgraded brakes and specially tuned electric power steering, enhancing its driving dynamics.

Furthermore, the vehicle weight has been reduced compared to last year's model. The adoption of the new powertrain has led to weight reduction, particularly around the front axle. This optimized weight distribution also contributes significantly to improved handling performance.

Additionally, it features larger air intakes and newly designed 20-inch alloy wheels, giving it an even sportier appearance.

The price is 8.39 million yen for the S60 Polestar and 8.59 million yen for the V60 Polestar.

Volvo S60 Polestar | Volvo S60 Polestar
Volvo V60 Polestar | Volvo V60 Polestar
Vehicle Weight | (S60) 1,751 kg (V60) 1,796 kg
Engine | 1,969cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo + Supercharger
Max Output | 270 kW (367 ps) / 6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 470 Nm (47.9 kgm) / 3,100-5,100 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes Front | φ371×32 mm Ventilated Disc
Brakes Rear | φ302×22 mm Ventilated Disc
Tires | 245/35R20
Fuel Economy (JC08) | (S60) 11.2 km/ℓ (V60) 11.2 km/ℓ
0-100 km/h Acceleration | (S60) 4.7 sec (V60) 4.9 sec
Top Speed | 250 km/h (Limited)