Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor review

Zapmap verdict: ”Stylish, refined, quick, well built, and electric, the Polestar 2 is the blueprint by which the executive car market must go forward.”

Polestar 2: Range & charging

The Polestar 2 comes with a choice of three battery/powertrain options, and two charging set-ups. Polestar offers DC charging at up to 155 kW, with an 11 kW AC on-board charger fitted as standard.

There are three configurations available:

• • ● Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor – 165 kW – 64 kWh – 275 miles
  • ● Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor – 170 kW – 78 kWh – 336 miles
  • ● Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor – 300 kW – 78 kWh – 299 miles

Range

The Polestar 2’s official WLTP driving range is as good as 336 miles on a charge in longest range trim, though even the short range model will cover 275 miles according to official figures.

In real-world conditions, the Polestar 2 struggled to match the WLTP range, though part of that is down to chilly weather, and another part is down to how engaging the driving experience is. Driven more normally/sensibly, the Polestar 2 will cover 250-270 miles on a charge.

Braking

Polestar has a ‘one-pedal’ brake energy recuperation system that works very well, though this can be reduced to middling regen or even switched off completely to enable coasting. It’s flexible and works nicely, with the only time I found it worth turning one-pedal mode off was on the motorway for extended periods.

Charging

Capable of charging at up to 155 kW CD on CCS units, the Polestar 2 will recharge to 80% in half an hour on ultra-rapid points. Charging from a conventional home or public charge point will take around eight hours for a full charge.

The Polestar 2 on the road

Packing 300 kW and all-wheel drive, the Polestar 2 borders on being a performance model. It’s got plenty of power at any speed to surge further more, and covers the 0-62mph time in as little as 4.5 seconds.

What’s the Polestar 2 like to drive?

With adjustable dampers available for buyers, just about however you like. Personally, I loved the combination of suspension set-up and performance. It allows for a quick car but not one that’s uncomfortable. It’s refined at motorway speeds, great fun on country roads, and accomplished about town.

Polestar 2: Comfort & Practicality

Polestar is a Volvo brand, so as you would hope, the cabin is exceptionally comfortable, nicely designed, and well built. It’s not just a Volvo clone however, with its own styling and systems. Seating for four adults is spacious, though a central tunnel means a fifth person is a squeeze.

Design and functionality

I think the Polestar 2 is a great example of Swedish design inside and out. Demanding attention once inside is the portrait infotainment system, which is the first available to be built on a Google platform, and it works very nicely. Nice touches about, including a Polestar gold when the Performance Packs fitted, and there’s an illuminated Polestar logo that reflects onto the panoramic glass roof.

Polestar 2: Tech & Specifications

There are three model options rather than trim levels to the Polestar 2 range, though there are three packs available to add – Plus, Pilot, and Performance. Fitted as standard are:


 

1. 19-inch alloys
2. One-pedal brake regen
3. 11.2-inch colour touchscreen
4. Keyless start
5. LED headlights
6. Front and rear parking sensors
7. Heated front seats
8. Rear camera

The Polestar 2 is great choice of executive chariot. It’s fast, drives nicely, and is built like a true European premium model should be. The design is subtle but stylish, and there are plenty of features that will win drivers over from rival offerings – electric or otherwise.

And how much is the road tax on a Polestar 2? Use our Car Tax Calculator to find out.

All information above correct at time of publication. Official economy figures, pricing, and tax rates supplied by the manufacturer. Cost to charge based on 0-100% charge at home on a tariff of 16 p/kWh.