In the past we saw Polestar offering some performance accesories and details for Volvo models, but it is the first time when the tuning company turns its attention on the XC90 SUV.
The top of the range model in Volvo`s range benefits from a Polestar Performance Optimisation, which upgrades the power and torque figures of both the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E engines. They also alter the settings of the automatic gearbox to provide faster gearchanges and prevent gearshifts during rapid cornering.
The upgrades have been developed and designed by the engineers of Polestar and the racing drivers of Polestar Cyan Racing, the official motorsport partner to Polestar.
The maximum output of the D5 Drive-E engine is increased to 233 hp and 500 Nm of torque (up from 225 hp and 470 Nm), while the T6 Drive-E is boosted to 334 hp and 440 Nm (from 320 hp and 400 Nm).
Polestar Performance Optimisations have also been released for the D4 diesel and T5 petrol Drive-E engines in other Volvo models.
With the Polestar Performance Optimisation, the D4 Drive-E offers 200 hp and 440 Nm (up from 190 hp and 400 Nm), while the output of the T5 Drive-E is raised to 253 hp and 400 Nm (from 245 hp and 350 Nm).
The D4 Drive-E upgrades are available in the S60, V40, V40 Cross Country, V60 and XC60, and the T5 Drive-E enhancements are offered in the V40 and V40 Cross Country.
The price of the D4, D5, T5 and T6 Polestar upgrades is £835, including VAT and fitting. The work can be carried out at any authorised Volvo dealer, and should take about 30 minutes to complete.
Until the end of December 2015, all model-year 2005 to model-year 2015 all-wheel-drive Volvos can be upgraded with the Polestar Performance Optimisation at the discounted price of £620, saving £215. As you would expect, the Polestar upgrades do not affect the certified emissions and fuel consumption figures, service intervals or Volvo warranty cover.
