S60 Polestar (Sweden, 2012)

Volvo unveiled in 2012 the S60 Polestar that uses a version of Volvo's T6 engine tuned to 508hp and 575Nm of torque. The car is a concept for now, but like the C30 Polestar, if demand is high enough, Polestar will build them for customers.

Polestar tuned the S60 to be a real sports sedan. In addition to its higher output, it added a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, Haldex electronic differential, a 30mm lowered suspension, Öhlins shocks, larger front and rear anti-roll bars, a X-brace cross-member under the car to improve rigidity, reinforced bushings in the sub-frame and control arms and 380mm brake discs with six-piston Brembo calipers. The exterior is painted in an icy blue paint scheme with a deeper front spoiler that features better brake cooling than stock and a larger rear spoiler. It also added a carbon fiber diffuser. The body was widened by 20mm to accept the 9.5 inch wide, 19 inch diameter front and rear wheels. Inside, the the seats, steering wheels and gearshift have been covered in Alcantara to keep a better grip on the driver.

Polestar tuned the engine with a tuned cylinder head, new intake manifold, stronger connecting rods, a different turbo and 3.5in diameter exhaust.

"In our concept car we have developed chassis, engine and transmission just like we want it, and the result is a huge leap forward in terms of handling and performance. It is, by far, the most impressive street Volvo I’ve ever driven. But I must also say that the genuine Volvo feeling is still there," said racing driver for the Polestar team Robert Dahlgren.

Four S60 Polestars have been entered into the Swedish TTA - Racing Elite League, and the road car was officially launched at the series's third round on June 16 in Gothenburg, Sweden. Polestar was set up in 1996 to create racing versions of the Volvo 850. Volvo supplied the cars to the team, while it completed the tuning.

“The car we present is yet another result of our close co-operation were Polestar’s motorsport and performance experience is combined with Volvo’s in-depth knowledge about the car and its technology,” said Polestar CEO Christian Dahl.