VOLVO has introduced a new Polestar-developed software upgrade that increases torque distribution to the rear wheels of its cars equipped with all-wheel drive for more dynamic driving.

The optimisation software, developed by Volvo Car Group's new electric performance brand, Polestar, increases the amount and frequency of torque distributed to the rear wheels, improving steering with enhanced turn-in, better control and engagement when cornering, and improved traction when pulling away, delivering a more engaging drive.

It's available as an £835 option for petrol and diesel versions of the Volvo 90 series, the 60 series and XC40 cars from this month.

"We are always fine-tuning the driving experience of Volvo cars, and this upgrade makes the all-wheel drive both smoother and more dynamic," said Henrik Green, senior vice president of research and development at Volvo..

The AWD optimisation is engaged by selecting the Dynamic drive mode, or when the Electronic Stability Control is disengaged.

The new rear-wheel torque distribution feature adds another optimisation area to the latest Polestar software upgrade.

The five existing areas include sharper throttle response, faster off-throttle response, quicker gearchanges, optimised gearshift points and in-corner gear holding, as well as increased engine output.