The Polestar H520T is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine, integrated into a plug — in hybrid system, introduced in 2024 for Polestar's flagship performance models. It features a twin — scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and advanced variable valve timing, delivering outputs from 220 kW (300 PS) upwards. Its hybrid architecture provides instant electric torque, complementing the engine's high — revving character for a seamless powerband.
Fi…
All production years (2024–Present) meet Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Polestar H520T is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an electric motor, engineered for flagship SUV and coupe models (2024-Present). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver exhilarating acceleration and a broad, flat torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it offers a sophisticated blend of high performance and regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (95 RON min, 98 RON recommended) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-scroll turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
Power output | 220–270 kW (300–367 PS) (Engine only) | |
Torque | 400–420 Nm @ 2,000–5,000 rpm (Engine only) | |
Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC | |
Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Polestar/Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE 0W-20 | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Polestar H520T is used exclusively in Polestar's flagship Polestar 3 SUV and high-performance Polestar 4 coupe, with longitudinal mounting. This engine is always paired with a high-output electric motor as part of Polestar's advanced plug-in hybrid performance strategy. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The H520T's primary emerging concern is software-related powertrain transition refinement in very early builds, with minor incidence reported under specific high-load conditions. Polestar's proactive quality control identified this, leading to Service Bulletin PSB-24-008. As a new engine with a chain-driven timing system and modern materials, long-term mechanical reliability is projected to be excellent with strict adherence to the prescribed 0W-20 oil specification.
Analysis derived from Polestar technical bulletins (2024-2025) and Volvo Cars internal service data (2024-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
As a brand-new engine (2024–present), long-term data is not available. Based on its Volvo-derived architecture and chain-driven timing, it is projected to be highly robust. The only known minor issue (transition smoothness) is resolved via a software update. Using the correct 0W-20 oil and adhering to service schedules is paramount for longevity.
The most documented issue is a slight hesitation during the electric-to-combustion transition in the earliest cars, fixed by software update PSB-24-008. Other potential long-term concerns include intake valve carbon buildup (common to direct-injection engines) and minor oil consumption, which are manageable with proper maintenance.
The H520T engine is currently used exclusively in the Polestar 3 SUV and high-performance variants of the Polestar 4 coupe, specifically those equipped with the Long Range Dual Motor or Performance Pack from the 2024 model year onwards. It is always part of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Yes, the H520T has significant tuning potential. ECU remaps can safely increase power, leveraging its robust internals and hybrid system. Gains of 40-60 kW are common on 'Stage 1'. However, tuning may void the warranty and put additional stress on hybrid components, requiring careful consideration and professional calibration.
Fuel economy varies greatly due to its plug-in hybrid nature. Official WLTP figures for the Polestar 3 are around 1.5 L/100km (188 mpg UK) combined when using electric mode. When running on petrol alone, real-world consumption is typically 8-10 L/100km (28-35 mpg UK) depending on driving style.
Yes. Like virtually all modern engines, the H520T is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail catastrophically, piston-to-valve contact would occur, resulting in severe engine damage. Fortunately, chain failures are extremely rare on this new design.
Polestar mandates a very specific 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting the VCC RBS0-2AE specification. This low-viscosity oil is critical for fuel efficiency, turbocharger protection, and the engine's variable valve timing system. Using the wrong oil can lead to performance issues and damage.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with POLESTAR or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
POLESTAR Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialPOLESTAR documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.