Polestar, the motorsport and performance collaboration with Volvo Cars, has introduced a modest Performance optimization of the Volvo V60 diesel Plug-in Hybrid.

The Polestar optimization increases the power output to a total of 298 hp (222 kW) and 670 N·m (494 lb-ft), making it the strongest ever diesel model from Volvo.The new optimization boosts the power of the 5-cylinder, 2.4-liter turbodiesel diesel engine by 15 hp and 30 N·m, including an optimized power graph. Combined with the 50 kW, 200 N·m electric motor on the rear axle (the same as in the original), acceleration improves to 0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, with unchanged fuel consumption and emission levels: 1.8 l/100 km (131 mpg US) and 48 g/km.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid is also equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and an 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.

The optimization is so far only available in Sweden, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

The optimization makes the car more fun to drive, while also increasing the safety in situations requiring extra performance, such as during an overtaking maneuver, the company suggests.

Polestar Performance is installed by Volvo dealers with retained Volvo warranty. The work can be carried out in connection with a regular service, tire change, installation of Volvo accessories or reconditioning.

Volvo sold almost 8,000 units of the plug-in hybrid in 2013, making one of the top three best-selling plug-in vehicles in the EU (along with the Renault Zoe and Mitsubishi Outlander).