The 2017 Volvo S60 Polestar represents a significant moment in the evolution of the Swedish brand, marking the first true collaboration between Volvo’s performance division and its parent company’s engineering prowess. This model moves beyond the standard S60, injecting a raw, turbocharged fury that contrasts sharply with the brand’s typical image of safety and serene Scandinavian design. It serves as a high-performance sedan that maintains the essential qualities of its civilian counterpart while delivering a driving experience that is both thrilling and remarkably refined.
Design and Aerodynamic Refinements
Visually, the 2017 S60 Polestar is immediately distinguishable from the standard S60, featuring a suite of bespoke components designed to enhance both aesthetics and airflow. The front fascia is dominated by a larger, more aggressive front bumper with integrated air dams and a prominent front grille, flanked by signature LED daytime running lights. The rear is equally transformed with a large, integrated spoiler and a diffuser that helps manage high-speed stability. These changes are not merely cosmetic; every element is calculated to reduce lift and increase grip, ensuring the car feels planted at all times.
Exterior Detailing and Build Quality
The car rides on a lowered, stiffened chassis, sitting lower to the ground than its standard sibling. This stance, combined with the 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tires, gives the S60 Polaster its aggressive posture. The paint finish is deep and lustrous, with the option of special colors like Polestar Orange, which became a signature hue for the brand. The build quality is impeccable, with precise panel gaps and a sense of solidity that underscores Volvo’s commitment to engineering excellence, even in its most performance-oriented model.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2017 S60 Polestar is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, a unit developed in conjunction with Ford’s performance division. This powertrain produces an impressive 345 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels through a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. The result is a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, a time that feels even quicker thanks to the car’s responsive steering and balanced chassis.
Handling and Track Capability
What truly sets the Polestar apart is its handling. The standard all-wheel-drive system, usually a hallmark of safety, is cleverly managed here to prioritize performance. Drivers can choose between different drive modes, allowing for a playful, rear-biased feel in dynamic mode. The suspension is significantly upgraded with stiffer springs, adaptive dampers, and larger anti-roll bars, which work in concert to deliver exceptional cornering grip and minimal body roll. This transforms the S60 into a genuine track weapon, capable of lapping circuits with a confidence-inspiring precision that belies its four-door configuration.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the 2017 S60 Polestar maintains the luxurious and minimalist atmosphere of the standard S60, but with performance-oriented details. The seats are bolstered and feature Polestar branding, providing excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for longer journeys. The dashboard is dominated by a large, vertical touchscreen infotainment system, though the performance-focused driver also benefits from a unique digital gauge cluster that displays vital performance data, including G-forces and power output.
Features and Refinement
The cabin is a sanctuary of quietude, with excellent sound insulation ensuring that the roar of the engine is only fully apparent when the driver seeks it out. High-quality materials, such as premium leather and brushed aluminum, are used throughout. Advanced safety features, including City Safety and Pilot Assist, are standard, reflecting Volvo’s core values. This blend of cutting-edge technology, daily usability, and raw performance is the Polestar’s greatest strength, offering a driving experience that is both civilized and thrilling.
