Polestar takes up challenge with hybrid XC90 T8

Volvo’s flagship SUV in the range-topping T8 version runs to 100km/h in five and a half seconds.

Volvo’s performance division, Polestar, recently upgraded the D5 diesel engine of Volvo’s flagship S90 and V90, but now it is time for the newly launched XC90 T8 to receive special treatment – meet the most powerful Volvo ever! (yes it’s an estate)

Polestar managed to fiddle with the XC90 T8’s engine to produce a combined 311kW and 680Nm. The increase in power and torque has been effected to the turbo and supercharged Drive-E petrol engine, which sees power increase from 235kW to 246kW and a 40Nm jump in torque, from 400 – to 440Nm. Electric motor output remains unchanged at 65kW and 240Nm. With the power hike, the Polestar-tuned XC90 T8 Twin Engine will run to 100km/h in only 5.5 seconds while retaining the same combined fuel consumption of just 2.1 litres / 100 km and the 43km electric range.

Aside from giving the T8 Twin Engine setup more hybrid muscle, Polestar also improved throttle response and optimized the gear hold function which now keeps the selected gear during cornering at high lateral g-forces. It means there won’t be any unwanted gear shifts while the hybridized SUV is cornering and this should enable a sportier driving experience.

Polestar’s software can be ordered through any Volvo Cars dealer in South Africa and all changes which form part of the Polestar upgrade keep the original service intervals and warranties intact.