The time for software engineers to become this generation’s tuners has begun. Volvo Cars has found a way to increase torque distribution to the rear wheels of Volvo equipped with all-wheel drive with a simple software upgrade.

Developed by Polestar, Volvo’s new electric performance brand, this new software upgrade 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.

This new mode is engaged simply by selecting the Dynamic drive mode, or when Electronic Stability Control is disengaged.

The new rear-wheel torque distribution feature adds another optimization area to the latest Polestar software upgrade. The five existing areas include sharper throttle response, faster off-throttle response, quicker gear changes, optimized gearshift points and in-corner gear holding, as well as increased engine output.

The Polestar AWD optimization will be available for both petrol and diesel models riding on Volvo’s SPA and CMA architecture from the 2019 model year onwards which feature all-wheel drive. As early as this month, the 90 Series, 60 Series, and XC40 cars will feature the optional update.