2024 XC60 B5 AWD Polestar Optimised

[MR_Y]

As per my older posts, some will know that I am a Volvo fan (in addition to Porsche and BMW).

My past Volvo history:
2007 C30 2.0i
2016 V60 Cross Country D4 (2.4) AWD Polestar Optimised*
2017 S60 (2.0T/S) Polestar Engineered**

* Polestar Optimisation means a software tune from a Volvo dealer that is available on any of their turbo cars, even going all the way back to models from 2005.
* Polestar Engineered means a heavily modified (aero, mechanical, software) Volvo from the Polestar Motorsport Division.

In Q4 2025, Volvo SA Head Office had flooded the nearly used Volvo market with their factory demo, 2024 XC60 cars - this caused the average used price of these cars to plummet. This was an opportunity for me to get back into the brand.

Choosing the right model:

The test drive of the XC60 B5 was disappointing. While 183kw/350Nm was the on-paper claim, the reality at low speed was underwhelming acceleration. It felt like pressing the accelerator resulted in a fax message being sent through the car to deliver power and then it takes ages to respond. Also, the 2022+ cars have no Dynamic/Sport mode and one is saddled with the default Economy mode.

There is a B6 (same 2.0 motor, but with a supercharger in addition to the B5's turbocharger), but my experience with the super high fuel consumption and unreliability of this motor in my short-lived S60 Polestar, made me give the B6 a miss.

The T8 would be the ultimate XC60, but these were not part of the heavily discounted Volvo SA fleet cars.

After some research, it was clear that a Polestar Optimisation on the B5 was the answer. I signed the OTP for the car, on condition that the dealer install the Polestar Optimisation and arrange full frontal PPF, as well as rubber mats all round.

What did I get:

2024 XC60 B5 AWD Essential spec, with 14,000km and optioned with:
- Active bending LED lights
- panoramic sunroof
- charcoal leather
- front heated seats
- Thunder metallic grey paint
- 19 inch wheels (18s standard)

All in, the car cost me the same as a similar age/mileage 2024 Tiguan 1.4.

Did Volvo deliver the goods?

Yes. The Volvo delivered the goods spectacularly. The Polestar tune only moves up the on-paper figures from 183kw/350Nm to 188kw/400Nm, but the biggest difference is in the power delivery, especially at low speeds and in the mid range. Furthermore, the following changes are noted:
- faster throttle response
- snappier gearshifts from the 8 speed Aisin unit. Also holds gear longer when you push it.
- RWD biased AWD when in full attack mode
- Dedicated full attack Polestar mode in the car's drive mode settings. Though, the optimisation is present also in Comfort mode (but with FWD biased AWD, as per stock)

The Polestar optimisation transforms the driving experience. Even in Comfort mode, there is more sense of urgency. Quicker response and firmer steering (though, still lacking feel) are appreciated.

As a comparison, I would say that in low to medium speed situations, this XC60 feels quicker than my Macan Mk1 S Diesel. Thinking back to my 2020 Porsche Lockdown Laps experience with the Mk2 Macan 2.0T, I would say this Volvo is genuinely faster. The mild hybrid system in the B5 seems to be useful at eliminating low speed turbo lag, instead of being a fuel saving device, especially when one has the Polestar tune.

However, this is no Porsche when it comes to handling. It has a soft and comfy suspension. There is noticeable body roll, but it still keeps its composure in tight corners (does not fall over, stays planted). Compared to my poverty spec (non-M sport) X3 G01 20d, it cannot compete on handling curves in a fun way. It is a solid car to drive fast, but in the twisties you will back off because the suspension is designed to give you a comfy ride, rather than a sporty ride. I am not complaining too much, since it still blasts away most rival SUVs (and warm hot hatches) with its engine performance. In the bends, I just take it a bit easy - which is perfect for our potholed roads in JHB.

Regarding interior quality, the fit and feel of the materials feels more premium than what I have seen in the X3 or GLC (last gen at least). There are soft touch materials almost everywhere. Note that this is the poverty spec "Essential" trim, but it is still made with proper luxury and attention to detail in mind. All windows are laminated from factory.

Interestingly, this XC60 is made in China, but developed/designed in Sweden, with the claim that there is no difference in component materials between the China and Sweden factories. From what I can see and feel in the car, I do not disagree.

The infotainment situation on the 2022+ cars is a mixed bag and needs further unpacking....

Volvo decided to let Google run with the dev and software maintenance of its infotainment systems since 2022. The main benefit is that Google will ensure that the latest updates are provided and Volvo can instead focus on car things and not infotainment things.

For context, I am a multiple Android user and I love digging into my device settings and tweaking my data, battery, storage, utility functions, etc for all my apps and ensure that my device works the way that I want it to. I do not own an Apple device and I prefer a hands on approach to deep diving into tech that I use.

The Google based system in the Volvo suits me. However, if you are a basic Android user or an iPhone user, then the system in the Volvo may be frustrating to use.

The Volvo Google system is an Android system. So when you link your Android phone via Android Auto, you end up having two Google systems (so, 2 Google Assistants, 2 Google Maps, 2 YouTube Musics, etc). This can get frustrating, unless you clearly demarcate the functions you want the car's Google to do vs your phone. It took me a week to fine tune this setup, so it now works seamlessly for me. However, I can see may people (especially iPhone users) being put off. The pre-Google era (pre 2022) Volvos have the Volvo Sensus system, which is a traditional car infotainment system.

Another consideration is that the SA spec Volvos do not come with a data plan for the Google systems. So, you need to run your phone as a WiFi hotspot in the car, or you just run Android Auto only and kill the data functions of the in-car Google system.

I managed to workout the Google system and now everything works the way I want it to.

Besides the tech consideration, this is an excellent family SUV at the price (being used price, obviously!). The car feels like an old school Merc in terms of fit and finish and how it absorbs bumps and handles.

Under the Polestar drive mode, it does sound fruity (though not sure if these are enhanced sounds from the speakers) and has some serious get up and go.

Spirited driving over a week has resulted in an average fuel consumption of 11.x litres per 100km. More Comfort focussed driving reduces it to 8.0 litres per 100km.

A trip to KZN is planned for next week.

More updates to follow.

Anyway, here are the pictures.

Discrete Polestar badge. Though, this is not a Polestar fully Engineered car, just an Optimised one.


Panoramic roof included in all the Volvo SA factory demo stock.


Android/Google interface - loved by some, but hated by iPhone users.


Proper leather interior. Old school Merc vibes in terms of build quality and comfort.



Space saver spare wheel


Boot space


Driver seat with memory, standard.
Heated seats also.


All windows are laminated from factory.



Thunder grey metallic looks different to vanilla Volvo colours

 

[Nish_H]

Congratulations again Yash, wish you and your family many happy and safe miles.

Excellent choice for a family SUV.

 

[FILV]

Congratulations!
I always liked these, especially with the facelift headlights.

Great value for money.
Pity no Bowers and Wilkins as its a great system on these, but not a deal breaker im sure.

Great to hear your thought son the handling, a is always wondered how different it would handle bends compared to an X3.

 

[MR_Y]

Congratulations!
I always liked these, especially with the facelift headlights.

Great value for money.
Pity no Bowers and Wilkins as its a great system on these, but not a deal breaker im sure.

Great to hear your thought son the handling, a is always wondered how different it would handle bends compared to an X3.

Thanks man.

Bowers Wilkins would be great but was not on the Essential spec cars that Volvo SA had offloaded. I think Dark spec cars would have that.

Regarding handling, here is a snippet from my initial post.

"There is noticeable body roll, but it still keeps its composure in tight corners (does not fall over, stays planted). Compared to my poverty spec (non-M sport) X3 G01 20d, it cannot compete on handling curves in a fun way. It is a solid car to drive fast, but in the twisties you will back off because the suspension is designed to give you a comfy ride, rather than a sporty ride. I am not complaining too much, since it still blasts away most rival SUVs (and warm hot hatches) with its engine performance. In the bends, I just take it a bit easy - which is perfect for our potholed roads in JHB"

Will test handling a bit more in Polestar mode on, but with family not in the car, in future. This car does weigh 2 tons and you fo feel it. It can still string together a set of corners, but it is not light on its feet.

 

[CK4LIFE]

Congratulations and welcome back to the Swedish world. Been wanting to upgrade to that model but only for the updated tech. My 2015 D4 excel still hasn't skipped a beat. Happy miles ahead mate!

 

[TBP88]

Colour looks great. We're a while away from the next family car. I'm trying to fight for an F80M3 but (1) finding one in manual is hard (2) finding one not abused *NOW* is tough, in 3/4/5 yrs when we start a family car hunt I can only imagine. Might need to look at something like this just leaving plan.

 

[MR_Y]

Update after inaugural trip to KZN:



1. Besides for wind noise, the car is quiet. Pushing it does reveal a nice turbo 4 growl. Does not sound strained at all. In Polestar mode, the engine/exhaust note sounds a bit gruffer - not in a bad way. Though, I wonder if this is piped through the speakers or genuine 🤔

2. Real-world power on tap is impressive. It feels more than the 188kw/400Nm on paper claim from Polestar. Even in Comfort mode, the car has minimal turbo lag and gets going quickly. Upon further investigation, I found that the 48V ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) also gets optimised as part of the Polestar tune - it changes from a fuel saving to a performance enhancing mechanism. The ISG provides 10kw and 40Nm, in addition to the ICE engine, and fills in the turbo gap at the low end - this lends the car a surge of power at low speed, while the turbo spools up. This feature is present in Comfort mode, but goes full attack in Polestar mode.



3. In Polestar mode, you can feel the rear end squat down. The car is not specified with air suspension, but the rear bias torque split from the Polestar mode does have a noticable impact on the rear steel suspension when booting the throttle. Tackling some bends, you do feel the rear bias. However, the underlying suspension is comfort oriented, so some wallowing is expected. The car is still very composed (grip is abundant), but you do feel the height and weight of the car. Still it is all very competent.

4. The relatively new Pirelli Scorpion Verdes tramline a lot in scratched tar sections of the N3. I can't recall if I had the same experience with the same tyres on my 2016 V60 Cross Country. I will switch to Michelin Latitude Sports or Goodyear Eagle F1 SUVs when these tyres need replacing.

5. Android auto works on both the centre and driver screen. There was a recent software update to the car that unlocked the driver screen to allow Android Auto. In the past, the car's in-built Google/Android system was displayed on the driver screen, while the phone/Android Auto function displayed on the centre screen. This meant you had 2 Google/Android systems - car vs phone. Having one system makes it more user friendly. However, I feel Google can do more to improve this system, which I expect them to do in future OTA updates.

6. Comfort levels and fit and finish of the interior are superb. I usually stop after 2 hours when driving long distance. This time, I stopped after 3 hours. The seats are so comfortable (like lounge chairs, with heating) and the cabin so quiet (besides for the fruity 4 pot turbo sound when pushing on), that this is arguably the best long distance car, in terms of outright comfort, I have owned.

7. Fuel consumption average worked out to 8.7 litres per 100km on the way down the N3 (southbound). Mix of Polestar mode and Comfort mode driving. Minimial traffic since it was Christmas Day. Will be keen to see what the northbound average consumption would be.



8. The aircon controls are in the touchscreen and are not easy to use when on the move. It is best to leave the aircon on auto, with the vents adjusted and use the car's in-built Google Assistant to adjust the temperature or fan speed with your voice. However, I feel with time and familiarity, the 2 press system on the touchscreen can be done without looking at the screen. Granted, most of this car's rivals have a similar setup.

9. The windscreen wipers have washer jets built into the wiper blades. This means that it washes as it wipes, in one sweep. I have not seen a system like this before. So far, it seems to work well.



10. The car has a Tracker telematics and tracking device built into the car. On the Volvo App, I can track the car. There is no requirement to sign up to Tracker (only if you need theft retrieval) and all the telematics features are free on the Volvo App. Of particular interest is the ability to see detailed logs of all trips, including fuel used per trip and detailed Google Maps logs of locations and routes travelled. Roadside assistance is facilitated by Tracker, at no cost while under maintenance plan.

11. Active bending and auto high beam lights work well. The lights automatically blank out a portion of the high beam to avoid blinding oncoming cars at night. My 2016 V60 Cross Country had a similar function, though that used Xenons. The LEDs on the XC60 are a generation ahead and illuminate dark roads well.



12. The standard sound system (High Performance audio) is decent. I am no audiophile, but the Harmon Kardon in my V60 Cross Country and S60 Polestar obviously had more punch. This XC60 system cannot compete with that, but does the basics right - no rattling or distortion. The HK and B&W systems are specced on the higher grade XC60 models (Bright and Dark spec).


Anyway, I am enjoying the car. At the price (lightly used 2024 Tiguan 1.4 R Line money), I cannot find another car that has the strengths of this car that suits my requirements. There is an old school Merc feel to the car, in its ride quality and its ability to cocoon occupants over long distances. I think Michelin Latitude sports tyres will transform the ride (especially the tramlining on scratched tar) even more.

 

[Budleigh]

Thanks for the update. The XC60 is certainly the sweet spot in the current Volvo range. Great choice!

With two Volvos under my belt, I've yet to find anything that matches the unique feel-good factor and understated elegance that the Volvos offer - agree totally with the old Merc comparison.

Also, those seats! I've had BMWs with all-singing all-dancing comfort contours that still don't match my Volvos for comfort.

Sent from my SM-S901E using Tapatalk

 

[MR_Y]

Drove from KZN to GP yesterday.
Heavy storm from Villiers to Nigel in the afternoon. Strong winds, heavy downpour, small hail stones.

The car sailed through it without any issue. The Pirelli Scorpion Verdes, while susceptible to tramlining over scratched tar, performed excellently in the wet. The car felt sure footed all the way.

Average consumption on the way back to JHB was higher than on the way down, as expected. Car was in Polestar mode for most of the journey - especially on the uphills and curvey sections. Still, 9.2 l/100km for an almost 2 ton SUV powered by a 2.0 petrol turbo is still very decent, especially when being driven with a heavy foot. The tank capacity is 71 litres, which is more than that of the G01 X3.


The day before, I parked in DBN on the street. Being a Volvo, it got no attention at all 😂 (which is good)


The first infotainment glitch came up yesterday when I started the car in the morning. The centre screen was blank. There is a button to reset the screen (soft reboot) - after pressing it, all worked fine. Having researched this a bit, it seems that a manual reset is needed after the Google OTA (over the air) updates are installed while the car is parked overnight (downloading happens in the background while the car is being driven, to avoid battery drain). Since Google (not Volvo) controls the deployment of the software updates, I signed up to their alerts, as well as their detailed release notes of the fixes and new functionality ahead of deployment. Will monitor this and see how it goes.

Anyway, the car is being handed over to the wife for daily family duties. The next long distance trip will be in March/April.

 

[AshG108]

Congrats Yash,
Love the colour and the spec of this car and also that it is basically a very decently powered vehicle as well, not bad consumption at all.
Enjoy and wishing you and the family many happy miles and smiles!