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Polestar’s New Star
Polestar, Volvo’s high‑performance electric brand, has just unveiled its latest model, the Polestar 4. The name itself is a nod to the North Star, a constellation that has guided travelers for centuries. "It means the Northstar." the host explains, highlighting the brand’s ambition to be a guiding light in the EV market.
Design: Minimalism Meets Functionality
The exterior is a study in understated elegance. The paint is described as a pearlescent white with a silver tinge, giving the car a "very, uh, crossovery feel." Inside, the cabin follows the same philosophy. Door handles retract, and vents are controlled by touch, a design choice that "over‑does Tesla in the simplification" of the vehicle. While the minimalism is striking, some find it polarizing. "I like this color a lot," one reviewer says, but the lack of a rear window and the digital mirror can feel "a little complicated" for those used to a physical rearview mirror.
The interior also features a large glass roof that creates a sense of openness, though the absence of a rear window means rear passengers receive less natural light. The designers claim the cut‑out in the roof is meant to provide more headroom, but the reviewer notes that the space is "pretty decent" with about 19 cubic feet of cargo volume and an 80/20 split. The frunk can hold "two Costco rotisserie chickens," a playful way to illustrate its capacity.
Powertrain and Performance
The Polestar 4 is fully electric, with a 100 kWh battery that delivers just under 300 miles of range. The dual‑motor version produces 544 hp and 506 lb‑ft of torque, accelerating from 0‑60 mph in roughly 3.5 seconds. "It’s a lot of power," the reviewer says, "and it pulls." The car also offers a single‑motor variant for those who prioritize range over speed, with a slightly lower horsepower but a longer range.
During a test drive, the reviewer compared the Polestar’s acceleration to other EVs, noting that while the initial launch can feel "a little gradual," the car "definitely pulls." The vehicle also offers a "sport mode" that adjusts traction control and steering feel, though the reviewer found the transition between modes to be "not intuitive."
Charging, Range, and Practicality
Charging is a highlight. The Polestar 4 supports 200 kW DC fast charging, topping the battery from 0 % to 80 % in about 30 minutes. "That’s pretty good," the reviewer says, comparing it favorably to other EVs that top out at 150 kW. The interior space is generous; the rear seats offer ample headroom and legroom, and the frunk can hold "two Costco rotisserie chickens." The lack of a spare tire is typical for EVs, but the charging port is conveniently located near the rear of the vehicle.
Practicality extends to the vehicle’s storage solutions. The cabin includes a small pocket under the rear seat for a purse, and the glove box is accessible without navigating through the screen. The reviewer notes that the glove box is "there" and that the "little spot underneath here to put belongings such as a small purse" is a thoughtful touch.
User Experience: Controls, Settings, and Customization
Polestar’s infotainment system is heavily screen‑centric, with two large displays and a heads‑up display. Adjusting settings, such as mirror angles or vent controls, requires navigating through multiple menus, a process that "takes three clicks." The car also offers a "planet" theme system, letting drivers choose from Saturn, Pluto, and others to change the interior lighting and color scheme. "It’s a little annoying," the reviewer admits, but the customization options add a personal touch.
The digital rearview mirror is a point of contention. While it provides a wide field of view and can be adjusted via the touchscreen, the reviewer worries about what happens if the camera fails. "If the camera goes out, you have no way of seeing through the rear view," they say. The system also includes a "driver alert" that turns orange when the driver needs to pay attention, a feature that some find "nagging."
Control placement is another area of debate. The steering wheel houses many buttons, and the reviewer notes that "you have to think really hard" to find the mirror adjustment. The design aims for minimalism, but the reviewer feels that "it’s not intuitive" for those who prefer quick access to settings.
Final Thoughts
Polestar’s latest offering blends Swedish minimalism with cutting‑edge technology. The design choices are bold, the performance impressive, and the charging infrastructure solid. While the interior’s reliance on screens may feel unfamiliar to some, the overall package positions the Polestar 4 as a serious contender in the luxury EV segment. For buyers who value a clean aesthetic, strong performance, and a range of customization options, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling proposition.