POLESTAR, the performance brand of Volvo Cars, has unveiled its 2018 S60 saloon and V60 estate models.

The new versions come complete with additional aerodynamic components made from lightweight carbon fibre material that increase downforce by 30 per cent.

A limited number of 1,500 vehicles will be built, with all cars receiving an individual number on the tread plate.

The new aerodynamic exterior package has been developed jointly by the engineers of Polestar and Cyan Racing, the motorsport partner of Polestar, with data derived from the World Touring Car Championship programme where the team is involved in the title fight.

Enhancements include a new front splitter, side sills and a rear spoiler extension, all made in lightweight carbon fibre,increasing downforce.

With the new aerodynamics the S60 Polestar is capable of 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds. The V60 takes 0.1 seconds longer. Both have a top speed restricted to 155mph.

The new components increase grip and high-speed stability, providing a car with the duality of being used in everyday driving as well as providing the driver with further control and feedback.

Much of the kit was developed and tested during Polestar Cyan Racing's recently-revealed secret Nurburgring test where a Polestar S60 claimed the record for the fastest four-door road legal car around the famous Nordschleife circuit.

Visual changes include high-gloss black Polestar diamond cut wheels, carbon fibre door mirror casings and a new colour, bursting blue metallic. The interior has been updated with a new seat upholstery, blue contrast stitching and Polestar embroidering.

More than 250 parts have been changed compared to the standard S60 and V60 models including adjustable Ohlins shock absorber system, and six-piston Brembo brake callipers with 371 millimetre discs.

As far as power goes the Polestar models retain the four-cylinder, 367bhp Drive-E engine, with fuel consumption and emissions of 179g/km for the S60 and 186g/km for the slightly heavier estate. That equates to 36.6mpg for the saloon and 35.2 for the V90.

Jorgen Ronstad, vice-president product strategy and managementat Polestar, said: "The models are the pinnacle of our road car programmes that we have been developing successfully since our first road car was launched in 2013.

"The aerodynamic enhancements, combined with other small but important changes, further enhances our base philosophy of a performance car for all roads and conditions, transferring technology and learnings from track to road."

Prices have yet to be announced.