Overview: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 hatchback boasts a stylish exterior, reminiscent of a luxury sedan like the Volvo S60, but with the added benefit of being an all-electric vehicle. As part of Volvo's EV subsidiary, Polestar, the car is well-equipped with both power and range, particularly at its lowest trim level. The base model boasts an impressive 299 horsepower with a claimed range of 300 miles, all while being rear-wheel drive.
For those looking for more power, the Polestar 2 also comes in two all-wheel-drive models, one with 421 horsepower and the other, the Performance Pack model, with a whopping 450 horsepower. Both versions offer a manufacturer-claimed range of 270 miles, making it an excellent option for those looking for a balance between speed and efficiency.
Despite its impressive features, the Polestar 2 comes with a higher price tag than the base Tesla Model 3. However, it compensates for that with a more traditional cockpit design, complete with an instrument cluster and software powered by Google's Android.
While the Polestar 2 has continued to evolve, adding new features, horsepower, and range with each model year, it needs to continue improving to remain competitive with other electric vehicles, such as the BMW i4 and Hyundai Ioniq 6, which are gaining popularity in the market. Nonetheless, with its luxurious design and powerful electric motor, the Polestar 2 is an excellent option for those seeking a gas-free driving experience.
Price and Variants: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 offers three different trims with varying price points to suit different preferences and budgets. The Long Range RWD model is estimated to start at $55,000 and is an excellent option for those who don't require all-wheel drive. It features a single motor that provides plenty of power with its 299 horsepower, and a range that allows for overnight charging.
For those who prefer all-wheel drive, the Long Range AWD model is estimated to start at $58,000. This version comes equipped with two motors and offers improved handling and traction, making it an ideal option for those who live in areas with inclement weather.
The Long Range with Performance Pack model is the most expensive of the three, estimated to start at $64,000. It features a powerful 450 horsepower motor, making it the top-performing Polestar 2. However, this added performance comes at a cost to overall range, making it less practical for those who frequently take long trips.
In our opinion, the Long Range RWD model is the best value for most drivers. It offers an impressive range and plenty of power at a more affordable price point than the AWD and Performance Pack models. While the Performance Pack model may appeal to driving enthusiasts, the trade-off in range may not be worth it for most drivers. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and driving needs, but the Long Range RWD model offers a great balance of performance, range, and affordability.
Power and Performance: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 is available in different motor configurations to suit various driving preferences. The entry-level model comes with a single motor that delivers 299 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power to the rear wheels. For those seeking more traction and performance, the all-wheel-drive models feature dual motors with a combined output of 421 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque.
For thrill-seekers, there's an available Performance Pack that packs a punch with its 455 peak horsepower for maximum acceleration. While we haven’t tested the updated motors in the 2024 Polestar 2, we expect more aggressive performance than the previous year's single-motor model, which went from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds.
The Performance Pack also comes with a set of upgrades to enhance the driving experience. These include 20-inch wheels with summer tires, stiffer suspension components, adjustable Öhlins dampers, and upgraded Brembo front brakes. Additionally, Polestar offers three levels of regenerative braking, with the strongest capable of bringing the car to a complete stop without even touching the brake pedal.
While the Performance Pack may be tempting for driving enthusiasts, we recommend sticking to the base suspension for a smoother ride. Ultimately, the choice of motor configuration comes down to individual driving preferences and needs. However, no matter which configuration you choose, the Polestar 2 offers an impressive combination of power, performance, and technology.
Range, Charging and Battery: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2, which is based on Volvo's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), has a 75 kWh lithium-ion battery for all-wheel-drive models and a larger 79 kWh battery for rear-drive single-motor cars. This electrified version of the platform supports fast charging up to 205 kilowatts with the big battery, while Polestar claims the 75 kWh battery can be recharged from empty to 80% in just 40 minutes. The single-motor model has an estimated range of 300 miles, and the dual-motor version has a rating of 270 miles of range on a single charge.
While the 2024 Polestar 2 has not yet been rated by the EPA, the previous year's model, which had less horsepower, achieved 190 miles of range on a real-world highway test at 75 mph. This result was comparable to the Audi e-tron luxury SUV, but fell short of the Tesla Model 3 Long Range sedan, which managed to go 230 miles. For further information about the Polestar 2's efficiency and range, please consult the EPA's website.
Interior: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2's interior exudes a sleek and modern vibe, blending different materials in a tasteful and minimalist way. The color scheme is subdued, and the layout is uncluttered, providing a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. Some design elements are borrowed from its Volvo siblings, such as the steering wheel controls and knurled start knob, but the overall effect is more streamlined. The interior is also environmentally conscious, featuring vegan fabric upholstery, although leather is available as an option. Despite its sporty profile, the Polestar 2 still manages to provide a decent cargo area with 14 cubic feet of space. For additional storage, there's also a cubic foot of space in the frunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity: 2024 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2's interior is a combination of futuristic and functional design, with an emphasis on digital technology. The driver is greeted with a sleek 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.2-inch touchscreen in the center console, resembling an iPad. The touchscreen operates using Google's Android Automotive OS, allowing users to easily navigate through different categories of apps such as navigation, phone, and audio. The layout is designed to reduce distraction, with similar apps grouped together in a specific corner of the screen. One of the standout features of the infotainment system is its integration with Google Maps, providing the driver with real-time information about nearby charging stations and estimated charging times. The cabin also comes equipped with two USB ports in the front and two in the rear, as well as a standard satellite radio and premium Harman/Kardon sound system. Overall, the Polestar 2's interior is a combination of high-tech features and minimalist design that provides a comfortable and intuitive driving experience.
Safety and Warranty: 2024 Polestar 2
Safety is a top priority for the Polestar 2, and the vehicle is packed with advanced driver-assistance features. These features are designed to enhance the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users. The vehicle has not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but Polestar expects the vehicle to receive high safety ratings.
Some of the safety features included as standard in the Polestar 2 are automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to help the driver avoid collisions and stay in control of the vehicle. In the event of an accident, the vehicle is equipped with several airbags, including side-curtain airbags that cover both rows of seats.
When it comes to warranty and maintenance coverage, Polestar's limited warranty is on par with industry standards, but falls short compared to the three-year complimentary maintenance program offered by Volvo, its parent company. The limited warranty covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles, while electrical components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. Despite the lack of complimentary scheduled maintenance, Polestar's coverage for the vehicle's electrical components is competitive and provides added peace of mind to owners.
Comparison Table - Specifications of 2022 Polestar 2 Single Motor vs. 2023 Polestar 2 Performance
| Specifications |
2022 Polestar 2 Single Motor |
2023 Polestar 2 Performance |
| Vehicle Type |
front-motor, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback |
front- and mid-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback |
| Price |
Base/As Tested: $47,200/$52,400 |
Base/As Tested: $58,800/$67,650 |
| Powertrain |
Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 228 hp, 243 lb-ft |
Front Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, Combined Power: 469 hp, Combined Torque: 502 lb-ft |
| Battery Pack |
liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 75.0 kWh |
liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 75.0 kWh |
| Onboard Charger |
11.0 kW |
11.0 kW |
| Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate |
- |
155 kW |
| Transmissions |
direct-drive |
direct-drive |
| Suspension, F/R |
struts/multilink |
struts/multilink |
| Brakes, F/R |
13.6-in vented disc/13.4-in vented disc |
14.8-in vented, cross-drilled disc/13.4-in vented, cross-drilled disc |
| Tires |
Michelin Primacy 4, 245/45R-19 102V POL |
Continental SportContact 6, 245/40R-20 99V POL |
| Dimensions |
Wheelbase: 107.7 in, Length: 181.3 in, Width: 73.2 in, Height: 58.2 in, Passenger Volume: 96 ft3, Cargo Volume: 16 ft3, Curb Weight: 4460 lb |
Wheelbase: 107.7 in, Length: 181.3 in, Width: 73.2 in, Height: 58.0 in, Passenger Volume: 91 ft3, Cargo Volume: 16 ft3, Curb Weight: 4714 lb |
| Test Results |
60 mph: 6.8 sec, 1/4-Mile: 15.3 sec @ 93 mph, 100 mph: 18.6 sec, Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.9 sec, Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.5 sec, Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.8 sec, Top Speed (gov ltd): 101 mph, Braking, 70–0 mph: 161 ft, Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.88 g |
60 mph: 3.9 sec, 100 mph: 8.9 sec, 1/4-Mile: 12.2 sec @ 116 mph, Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 4.0 sec, Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 1.5 sec, Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 1.9 sec, Top Speed (gov ltd): 128 mph, Braking, 70–0 mph: 160 ft, Braking, 100–0 mph: 317 ft, Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.92 g |
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