Newly Revealed Volvo S60 Polestar Concept Is One Speedy Swede

TOPSHAM, MAINE (06/25/2012)(readMedia)-- With a reputation for building upscale cars with the latest safety equipment, Volvo hasn't traditionally been top of mind with buyers when it is time to shop for a sports car. However, that may start to change following the recent debut of the 508-horsepower Volvo S60 Polestar concept car at the Gothenburg leg of the TTA Swedish racing series.

Based on the 2012 Volvo S60 T6 sedan, the S60 Polestar uses a heavily modified version of the production model's 3.0-liter engine to produce a top speed of roughly 186 mph and an estimated 0 - 60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds. While the S60 Polestar's aggressive powerplant may be grabbing the headlines, its other custom features could be just as important in keeping pace with other exotic vehicles like the BMW M3.

"Polestar used their extensive racing experience to make modifications well beyond the engine bay in their S60 concept, whether you're looking at the transmission or the chassis," said Rob Goodwin, general manager of Topsham, Maine Volvo dealer Goodwin's Volvo. "Producing a huge amount of output is one thing, but making proper use of that power is what separates the top performance cars from the rest. The Volvo S60 Polestar was created with that in mind."

Helping the S60 Polestar put its power to the ground is a revised version of the production S60's Haldex all-wheel-drive system and a reinforced close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. To maintain stability through the corners, the car has been lowered and widened, while a completely revamped suspension system with reinforced anti-roll bars has been put in place.

Engineers also equipped the S60 Polestar with six-piston Brembo brakes to help it reduce speed as quickly as it can accelerate, while a unique carbon-fiber diffuser and bespoke 19'' alloy rims give the car a sportier look. The sleek exterior also features a unique front splitter and a pronounced rear spoiler to ensure the S60 Polestar isn't confused with its Volvo brethren.

Volvo has not yet said if the high-performance S60 Polestar will eventually be scheduled for production, but those looking for a sporty Swedish ride can still find plenty of power at Volvo dealerships. As the automaker's best-selling car, the 2012 Volvo S60 comes in a variety of powerful trims, including the S60 R-Design, which draws 325 horsepower out of the lineup's turbocharged six-cylinder engine. This year, U.S. sales of the S60 are up 13.7 percent through May compared to the same period in 2011.

"Volvo is committed to building vehicles that can appeal to a broad range of drivers, whether they're looking for speed, refinement or safety," Goodwin noted. "The S60 is a great example of a car that can be many things to many people, and that's why it's so popular in showrooms."

About Goodwin's Volvo:

Goodwin's Volvo provides Maine Volvo drivers with unmatched service by ensuring that the customer relationship goes well beyond the initial sale. With a wide inventory of new and used Volvo vehicles and parts, the sales and service staff at Goodwin's Volvo can answer customers' detailed questions to guarantee an educated purchasing decision. Visit their Topsham, Maine Volvo dealership at 91 Main Street, check out their online inventory at www.goodwinsvolvo.com, or call them at 888-221-3201. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoodwinsVolvo.