Volvo will offer
the 415 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain with the 2020 XC60 and V60 models for the
2020 model year, which are set to hit the US market this summer. The new
range-topping versions will get the ‘Polestar Engineered’ treatment that
debuted in the 2019 S60 and which presents a range of upgrades to improve the
handling and the agility of the 2020 XC60 and V60.
Among them is the
optimized powertrain software that provides “faster access to torque”, as well
as a rear-biased all-wheel drive system. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid
powertrain combines a twincharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a
rear-mounted electric motor for a combined 415hp and 494lb-ft of torque.
The two new
performance versions of the Volvo XC60 and V60 also ride on special Öhlins
suspension that features a dual flow valve technology in the struts for quicker
responses to road imperfections, while the chassis also comes with an Öhlins
front strut bar for better precision.
The braking system
gets six-piston calipers finished in Polestar’s trademark gold color, hiding
behind a set of model-specific lightweight forged alloy wheels. The two new
Polestar Engineered models also come with black chrome tail pipes, a high-gloss
black grille, subtle fender extensions and the necessary ‘Polestar Engineered’
badges front and rear.
Inside the cabin a
set of gold safety belts provide a contrast to the charcoal color scheme. Metal
mesh aluminum details, Nappa leather/textile upholstery and a sport steering
wheel are among the rest of the changes.
We still don’t know
if the new 2020 XC60 and V60 Polestar Engineered models are going to be offered
for an outright purchase – the 2019 S60 Polestar Engineered was limited to 20
units and offered through subscription only.
