Volvo Lineup Gains High-Performance Clout with Polestar Tuning

TORRINGTON, CONN. (04/05/2012)(readMedia)-- Although Volvo has long been known for safety above all else, the automaker has recently been putting more emphasis on performance with the help of its motorsports partner, Polestar. Last November, Volvo announced new Polestar performance-tuning software that significantly boosts horsepower on several of its vehicles. Polestar recently told Popular Mechanics that the option has proved popular, with 10 percent of eligible models having been upgraded at a Volvo dealership.

A Volvo partner since 1996, Polestar is a Swedish performance company that designs and builds Volvo racecars. The company's performance upgrade works by altering the vehicle's engine control unit software, a process also known as a computer reflash. The software increases power by directing more air into the combustion chamber and advancing spark timing, while customers can still maintain their factory warranty and prior fuel economy. Polestar claims vehicles like the Volvo C30 can be upgraded in a day.

"Our customers have been very pleased with the Polestar upgrades because they can be done so quickly and there is really no downside," said Jeff Schmahl, general sales manager of Torrington, Connecticut Volvo dealer Mitchell Volvo of the Litchfield Hills. "We expect to see more and more of these types of partnerships with Polestar as Volvo delves further into the luxury market and competes with the performance arms of BMW and Mercedes-Benz."

A Polestar performance upgrade adds 23 more horsepower to certain Volvo models with T5 engines, including the C30, C70, S40 and V50 from model year 2008 and later. Meanwhile, select Volvos with T6 engines benefit from a 25-horsepower boost, like the 2011 and 2012 XC60, S60 and XC70. The engines don't lose any fuel efficiency following an upgrade because power output is only increased when needed, like when passing, towing a trailer or on long uphill treks.

Last year, Polestar showed off the full potential of its performance upgrades by introducing a customized Volvo C30 concept to the auto world. A one-off model, the Volvo C30 Polestar features a 380-horsepower turbocharged T5 under the hood that propels the car to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Polestar built the sporty blue hatchback almost entirely from off-the-shelf Volvo parts as well, aside from its front and rear Brembo brakes, BBS wheels and Ohlins suspension.

While car shoppers won't find the Volvo C30 Polestar at their local dealership, they can get the original hatchback coupe and opt for a Polestar upgrade. The base 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a 230-horsepower engine that can be upgraded to 253 horsepower with the Polestar software. With or without the upgrade, C30 models net up to 30 mpg on the highway when mated to a five-speed Geartronic transmission.

"In terms of compact versatility, there's nothing better than the Volvo C30," added Schmahl. "It delivers the power and the style entry-level luxury buyers seek, along with fuel-efficiency that won't make it a burden at the gas pump."

About Mitchell Volvo of the Litchfield Hills:

A part of the Mitchell Auto Group that has served Connecticut drivers since 1922, Mitchell Volvo of the Litchfield Hills strives to make every Volvo sales and service experience a great one. Backed by the knowledge and experience of an unparalleled sales team, they help customers find the perfect new or certified pre-owned Volvo for their lifestyle. For prompt and reliable Volvo service with a broad selection of parts, visit Mitchell Volvo of the Litchfield Hills. Browse their inventory in person at 450 New Litchfield St. in Torrington, or online at www.volvolitchfieldhills.com. They can also be contacted by phone at 800-717-4932 and found on Facebook.