Drive modes*

Updated 2022-05-09

Adapt the drive mode to the vehicle's current driving situation.

Available drive modes

There are three available drive modes: Comfort, Polestar Engineered and Off-road.

Vehicles that are not equipped with Polestar Engineered have the drive modes Comfort and Off-road.

Each drive mode is adapted to help optimize driving characteristics in terms of:

steering
engine/transmission/all-wheel drive*
brakes
pneumatic suspension* and shock absorbers
instrument panel
the Start/Stop function
climate control settings.

Indication in the instrument panel

P5-22w22-iCup-Drive mode in driver display non hybrids — The illustration is generic

The selected drive mode is indicated in the instrument panel.

Comfort

The vehicle starts in Comfort mode. This setting offers driving comfort, light steering and soft suspension. This drive mode is certified for carbon dioxide emissions.

Volvo recommends using Comfort mode when driving on freeways, highways, etc.

To keep in mind when using Comfort mode

the Start/Stop function is activated at start.

Polestar Engineered

In Polestar Engineered mode, gear shifting is faster and more distinct and the transmission prioritizes gears with a higher traction force. Steering response is faster and suspension is stiffer.

Volvo recommends Polestar Engineered mode when sportier driving characteristics and faster acceleration response are desired.

To keep in mind when using Polestar Engineered mode

ground clearance is lower to reduce body roll when cornering
the Start/Stop function is deactivated.

Off-road

In Off-road mode, steering is light and all-wheel drive* and the low-speed function with assistance for driving downhill (Hill Descent Control) are activated.

Volvo recommends using Off-road mode when increased traction is desired and when driving in difficult terrain or on poor roads.

To keep in mind when using Off-road mode

the Start/Stop function is deactivated
ground clearance is higher1
this drive mode is only available at low speeds
fuel consumption may increase

Note

This drive mode is not designed to be used for normal street driving.

Note

Due to the increased ground clearance, if the Off-road mode was selected when the engine was switched off, the suspension will lower when the engine is restarted.

Important

Do not use the Off-road drive mode when towing a trailer without an electrical connection. This could result in damage to the pneumatic suspension system's bellows.