Top-End Volvo Models Rev Up Performance

Volvo Car Corp. is expanding the availability of its Polestar Performance Optimization powertrain package to its flagship S90 sedan and V90 wagon.

The software upgrades, which already are offered on several other Volvo models, improve overall engine performance, throttle response, and gearshift speed and precision, according to the carmaker.

The rollout starts with Volvo's 5-cylinder diesel engine, where the Polestar package boosts output from 235 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque to 240 ponies and 369 lb-ft of twist. Similar upgrades are planned later this year for S90/V90’s 2.0-liter twin-charged 4-cylinder gasoline engine.

Volvo also has hinted that a souped-up Polestar version of its plug-in hybrid architecture is in the works. Combined output for these models could top 600 hp.