Overview
As electric vehicles go mainstream, new entrants aim to accelerate adoption by blending cutting-edge technology with sustainable luxury. Polestar strives for this balance.
Initially a high-performance sub-brand under Volvo Cars, Polestar began independently engineering premium electric vehicles in 2017. The company debuted its first volume model, the Polestar 2 fastback, in 2020. Blending safety, innovation and minimized environmental impact, this EV provides a unique option for eco-conscious yet discerning drivers.
Polestar has found early success, selling approximately 29,000 units globally so far. The $49,900-76,900 Polestar 2 competes most directly with the Tesla Model 3/Y, BMW i4 and Audi e-tron GT in the compact premium EV segment. With excellent crash test performance, 300+ mile range options and Android-powered infotainment, this sleek Swede makes a compelling case.
Let‘s examine 7 key advantages compelling buyers to choose Polestar 2.
1. Flexible Dual Motor or Single Motor Configurations
The Polestar 2 extends range or performance priorities through single or dual electric motor variants.
Dual motor editions like the $57,400 Long Range model or 551 hp $76,900 Polestar 2 Performance Pack build on the standard 78 kWh battery. Adding a rear electric motor supplements the front motor for faster acceleration and all-wheel drive traction. These output between 402-551 hp and 486-502 lb-ft torque, hitting 60 mph in 4.2-3.2 seconds.
Single motor Polestars sacrifice pace for value. The new $49,900 Standard Range Polestar 2 furnishes a 64 kWh battery for 265 hp and 273 mile range. Meanwhile, the $53,500 single Long Range motor optimizes range from its 78 kWh battery, which enables an EPA-rated 340 miles between charges. This front-wheel drive model generates 231 hp and 243 lb-ft torque.
In total, four distinct Polestar 2 variants span 60-150+ mile differences and over $27,000 in base price. Such flexibility assists buyers focusing budget and needs.
| Variant | Battery | Range (mi) | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range Single | 64 kWh | 273 | 265 hp | 7 seconds | $49,900 |
| Long Range Single | 78 kWh | 340 | 231 hp | 7 seconds | $53,500 |
| Long Range Dual | 78 kWh | 290-300 | 402 hp | 4.5 seconds | $57,400 |
| Performance Pack | 78 kWh | 270-280 | 551 hp | 3.2 seconds | $76,900 |
2. Matrix LED Headlights With Gorgeous Pixel Design
Beautifully advanced LED lighting showcases Polestar‘s avant-garde style. Complete with signature "Thor‘s Hammer" LED accents, the Polestar 2 introduces matrix Pixel headlights for supreme nighttime visibility.
Over 1.4 million microscopic mirrors placed behind each energy-saving LED element enable precise beams adapting to conditions. By actively tracking oncoming traffic, this system maximizes your own visibility without glaring other drivers. Light distribution adjusts in fractions of a second thanks to sensors and software controlling individual LEDs.
These dramatic yet functional lights complement Polestar‘s modern Scandinavian aesthetic quite fittingly. They work beautifully whether admiring the 2’s exterior form or illuminating winding back roads.
3. Protection That Would Make Volvo Proud
Polestar inherrited steadfast safety diligence from parent company Volvo, long known for protective passenger vehicles. This manifests in the Polestar 2’s rigid chassis employing Boron steel and crash absorption zones, plus a resilient central battery placement.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded Polestar 2 models 5-star side impact crash ratings plus perfect scores across all frontal impact test categories – matching Volvo’s reputation. Real world Polestar 2 collision impacts echoed such resilience and structural integrity.
You’re also protected by sophisticated technology like Polestar’s Pilot Assist. This system blends adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance and other features to help avoid accidents. Further driver aids include collision avoidance braking, blind spot warnings, cross-traffic alerts, rear collision mitigation and more. Simply said, this electrified Polestar keeps occupants outstandingly safe.
4. Google Native OS Powers a Premium Digital Experience
While some infotainment systems merely run Android Auto/Apple Carplay, Polestar 2 models operate Android Automotive OS. Google’s native interface enables fuller iPhone/Android integration, bringing apps and services into the vehicle.
Polestar‘s 11-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster deliver buttery responsiveness courtesy of Google‘s expertise. Expect Google Maps navigation and voice functionality to resemble your smartphone experience. Full OTA (over-the-air software updating) ensures continuous refinements after you drive home.
Nearly all settings live within the same intuitive environment, from vehicle personalizations and charging schedules to entertainment. Customizable apps and intuitive voice functions let you seamlessly access common mobile features on the go. This centralization makes interaction efficient and enjoyable.
5. Impressive Value Next to Prestige Luxury Brands
The desirable Polestar 2 price undercuts competing electric vehicles from prestige automakers. Despite the Polestar badge’s youth, interior appointments and ride quality rival luxury stalwarts.
Let’s compare base prices of rear-wheel drive Polestar 2 versions against rivals. The Long Range Single Motor Polestar 2 undercuts the RWD BMW i4 eDrive40 by $4,000. Against the single motor RWD Tesla Model 3 Long Range, Polestar wins by $7,500. Even Polestar’s $57,400 dual motor Long Range Polestar 2 steals a march on the $58,900 base Audi e-tron GT by $1,500. Factoring available incentives sweetens the situation further for Polestar.
Simply said, the Polestar 2 demonstrates smart value in its competitive set, outperforming fossil fuel-powered equivalents while meeting luxury expectations. Few rival EV newcomers manage this dichotomy as skillfully out of the gate. Well played.
6. An Ethical Vegan Interior Using Sustainable Materials
Polestar conducted extensive research to employ responsibly-sourced interior materials. Rather than leather, plant-based and recycled materials take precedence. Microtech upholstery utilizing recycled plastic bottles and PET bottles gets manufactured in a solar-powered facility, then shipped aboard electric trucks to reduce associated emissions.
Interior stitching relies on solvent-free adhesives while seat fabrics incorporate cork vinyl and textiles woven from recycled yarn and plastic. Polestar also avoids chrome plating. Altogether their cabins consist of extensive recycled contents, as certified by NAPCOR and TÜV SÜD.
Rest assured Polestar maintains luxury sensations of comfort, refinement and style throughout. Discerning drivers need not compromise core sensibilities to lighten environmental impact. Expect ethical indulgence on the road.
7. Clever Convenience Through Smart Features
Polestar packs clever functionality enhancing ownership ease. You’ll appreciate:
Personalization – Your registered driver profile automatically adjusts seating position, climate preferences, side mirrors and more when entering thanks to Polestar’s mobile app and keyless entry.
Continuous improvements – Regular over-the-air software updates refine capabilities – no visits to the dealer. Recent upgrades boosted charging speeds, refined climate controls and braking performance.
Digital key – Once authenticated via the Polestar app, Android users can unlock and operate their Polestar 2 straight from a compatible smartphone.
Such intelligent features shrink the transition gap from internal combustion conveniences. Smart indeed.
Compelling Electric Alternatives
Part of the joy of EV shopping means more outstanding automakers to choose from. While the Polestar 2 garners our endorsement, a test drive of these rivals also proves worthwhile:
Tesla Model 3 – Today‘s price and range benchmark thanks to vast Supercharger access, Autopilot capability and rabid owner engagement. The current $57,990 Model 3 Long Range touts 358 miles range and AWD acceleration as low as 3.5 seconds to 60 mph.
Ford Mustang Mach-E – Ford‘s first dedicated EV channels Mustang heritage into this electric SUV. With sporty demeanor plus 315 mile range and BlueCruise hands-free assist, the Mach-E demonsrtates Ford’s EV chops.
Volvo XC40 Recharge – This fully electric compact luxury SUV combines 208 miles range with brand pillars of safety, Scandinavian design and Polestar battery integration. Familiar yet future-thinking.
Conclusion
The youthful Polestar 2 merits serious consideration as your next electric luxury vehicle. This fastback sedan artfully blends technology, sustainability and Swedish understatement into a enticing EV package.
Given Polestar’s Volvo lineage and electronic refinement, expect five-star safety ratings, richly-appointed cabins using responsibly-sourced materials and an industry-leading Google user experience. Test drive a Polestar 2 yourself to witness the blend of conscience and charisma EV buyers crave.
