Is this new star ready for pole position?

2021 Polestar 2

The 2021 Polestar 2

Why It Matters

Polestar is a new player in the EV game and a direct descendent of Volvo.

Volvo purchased Polestar back in 2015 after realizing the long-term potential Polestar offers. As a long-standing technology provider to Volvo, Polestar has provided a leg up in the electrification arena for Volvo.

Driving The News

The Polestar 2, the first 100% EV from Polestar is the older brother to the upcoming Polestar 3 - a SUV to be built in South Carolina, the Polestar 4 - a performance SUV coupe, and the flagship Polestar 5 to be built on a dedicated EV-only and all new platform designed by the brand’s UK team. The OG and exclusive Polestar 1, a premium performance hybrid with a limited run of only 1500 worldwide, was the first car produced by the brand as an independent auto manufacturer. Polestar confirmed just days ago that the O2 concept roadster will come to production as the Polestar 6 in 2026.

This AWD baby star with the Performance package, runs 2 electric motors for a combined 402 hp, and 487 lb-ft of torque on a 78.0 kWh Li-ion battery and is good for an EPA estimated 233 miles on a full charge. Polestar claims a 0-60 mph of 4.1s and a flat to 80% charge in 40min when on a fast charger that accommodates at least 150 kilowatts.

In 2021 Polestar sold an impressive 29,000 Polestar 2’s, a 185% year over year growth from 2020. So far this year in the U.S. Polestar has gained a 1304.9% increase y-o-y. That’s impressive any which way you look at it.

Our Take

The Polestar 2 is a fun little ride. The more we drove it the more we liked it. It can get a little ass-happy in spirited turns but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s predictable at least. The power delivery is linear enough that it wasn’t sickening and we quickly got used to the regen + caliper braking blend.

It isn’t an ugly car at all and the light signature especially at night is quite unique. It’s not a pretty car though either. It looks a tad awkward from some angles, more slab sided than not. Beauty though is subjective and for some - even Tesla drivers no less - it is a handsome machine.

The interior is a bit claustrophobic as the center console seems to encroach into your personal space. Additionally, the sound system could use some refinement as the highs and lows seem to get lost in the tight cabin.

Even though feature packed, the high $63,000 introduction price point was a bit steep and out of sync with reality. But with the addition of the entry level $48,400 base model the value proposition seems more reasonable.

Despite a few minor quirks that need some attention, we feel this Polestar definitely earned a ModernChassis pole position.

Highs