Polestar 2
How it looks when you see on the street: The sleek Polestar 2 first came out in 2020 and has since had some minor touches to its look as the new brand finds it stride. The minimal design language follows a linear patter in a new front end for its “smart zone,” where its camera and sensors are located and the result is a distinctive front that reads like an em-dash. It’s got new tire options — a 19-inch all season Michelins or 20-inche tires for the Performance trim. We drove this vehicle when it first came out back in 2020, in the peak of pandemic weirdness and felt its soothing powers. We revisited it for the 2023 model year, and again for 2024 as the tweaks keep coming. The newest Polestar EV leaves the first impression of being ahead of its time, which shows its design forward thinking.
How it makes you feel when you get in: In a messy world, the Polestar 2 is decidedly uncluttered and leaves a svelte impression on the cabin occupants with its four-way lumbar support seats. Inside Polestar has gone the route of Google Automotive, so for Google users, the experience stays intuitive. Google makes its mark on the screens and logic, and its intuitive to the user touch. Apple CarPlay is an option though Google makes a strong play for Android sensibilities. Fave features include the Harman/Kardon sound system, a panoramic glass roof, and heating for the rear seats, as well as front and heat for teh steering wheel. Tech driving features like adaptive cruise control and driving assist are bundled across available packages.
How it drives: A study in performance verse practicality. It comes both as a single-motor that offers 231 horsepower, and 270 miles of range, and a dual-motor versions that produces 408 horsepower and range of 249 miles. The Long Range Dual Motor version adds an extra 11 miles to the most recent model year. A bump up to the Performance Pack makes 68 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque an option that delivers 476 hp and 502 lb-ft.
Once access to accessible charging is established, the Polestar keeps getting better range and in powerful configurations. The Long Range Single Motor produces a maximum range 406 miles, up from 341 miles in the last model. The entry level model is the Standard Range Single Motor, which now has a range of 339 miles, and used by 297 miles. Other variations include the Long Range Dual Motor that performs with more vigor and offers 368 miles of range. An optional upgrade for the performance enthusiast is the $5000 Long Range Dual Performance Pack that clocks a 0 to 60 miles per hour time at a cool 4.0. It’s got motorsports like features that include Brembo brakes, and adjustable brake dampers.
Space for people and things: The hatchback trunk is roomy and there’s also a small frunk.
What you should compare it to: Tesla Model 3, BMW I4, Hyundai Ioniq 6,
How much does it cost: The single-motor starts at $51,300, the dual-motor model is $56,700 for the base and the Performance starts at $64,400.