Polestar is Volvo’s performance arm and it takes part in the World Touring Car Championship. Bringing a bit more of that race track pedigree to the road are the new-for-2018 Polestar S60 and V60 models.
The Volvo S60 and its estate car sibling, the V60, are starting to get a bit long in the tooth – in fact they're not that far off being replaced, but Polestar isn't done with them just yet.
The main focus is on aerodynamics and that means some new carbon-fibre trinkets. An enhanced front splitter, side skirts and spoiler all add up to a 30% increase in overall downforce.
Sadly the car is mechanically identical to the previous model. Let's not be too sad though as each car still produces 362bhp. Polestar changes over 250 parts from the standard car allowing the all-wheel-drive S60 to complete the 0-62mph run in just 4.7 seconds. The more practical V60 is just a whisker slower at 4.8 seconds. You'll can't get home from Ikea with those two wardrobes any quicker.
It’s not all about straight line performance with Polestar – adjustable suspension, carbon-reinforced bracing, sharper steering and 371mm Brembo brakes all come as part of the package.
The AMG and M-car rivalling machines also get a few visual tweaks for 2018. Gloss-black diamond-cut alloy wheels and carbon-fibre door mirrors add a more sporting look.
The previous Polestar S60 set a secret Nürburgring lap record that was kept quiet for nearly a year.
Just 1,500 of these new Polestars will be made, each wearing their unique build number on the footplate. Pricing has yet to be announced, but watch this space.
Gallery: 2018 Volvo V60 and S60 Polestar