Volvo unleashes rapid S60 Polestar

Published Apr 19, 2013

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The new S60 Polestar is the next rung in Volvo's gradual climb up the performance ladder.

Gradual as far as the real world is concerned, which is why you shouldn't confuse this with the S60 Polestar Concept that was revealed last year.

That show car had a T6 straight-six turbocharged engine good for 375kW and 575Nm.

What you see here is the production version and although it has a similar engine configuration, it's been put under less stress and is now credited with 257kW and just over 500Nm.

But you'll only be able to buy one if you know how to put shrimps onto a 'barbie' because for now it's being offered exclusively to the Australian market.

Basically, they're being used as guinea pigs and if all goes well in the land of Falcons and Commodores then Volvo will consider invading other markets.

MODIFIED CHASSIS, AWD

The modified S60's power is shifted to all four wheels via a Polestar-tuned six-speed automatic gearbox and Haldex all-wheel drive system.

With its launch control system activated, Volvo claims it'll pounce from a standstill to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

This upgrade is not just about power - infact the Polestar racing division tinkered with the chassis and braking system, while a new aerodynamic body kit was also developed, and it includes a front splitter, rear wing and diffuser.

Polestar's MD Christian Dahl exclaimed: “We have built a car that we, as car enthusiasts, want to drive.

“This is a driver's car, bringing out the very best of the already competent Volvo S60 chassis with our experience and technology from motorsport.”

Mr Dahl also hinted that there is a lot more to come from the racing division: “This is an important step forward for Polestar, one that promises an exciting future.”

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