Polestar 2 Review

Who is Polestar?

Polestar is one of the most exciting all-electric car companies you’ve probably never heard of. Unless you’re a fan of Swedish motorsport and/or high-performance Volvos, the chances are you might not be familiar.

Having started life associated with Volvo, Polestar is now an independent car manufacturer, albeit under the same Geely ownership. Its first model was the Polestar 1, a two-door performance coupe, which actually appeared in 2017, but was only available in left-hand drive, in limited numbers and with a price tag the wrong side of £100,000 (and no, that’s not a misprint).

The Polestar 2 however, is a very different matter. With a more accessible price tag and family car practicality, the Polestar 2 unashamedly has the likes of the Tesla Model 3 directly in its sights.

There’s more to come from Polestar too with a new SUV due to be unveiled in 2022 and another Porsche Macan-rivalling SUV in 2023, so watch this space as Polestar is an electric car company with a bright future.

So, what is the Polestar 2?

Despite its saloon-like shape, the Polestar 2 is actually a five-door hatchback – and a surprisingly practical one (more on which later). There are hints of Volvo design here and there, like the squared-off lines and ‘Thor’s hammer’ LED headlights, but that’s no bad thing.

We love its retro-cool looks, especially the curving strip of LED lights at the back. And, while it may look more conventional than some more outlandish EV designs on the market, to our eyes that’s no bad thing – the Polestar 2 is a car that turns a lot of heads while thankfully not turning any stomachs.

Which versions are available?

Some new car ranges are more complicated than the bonus questions on University Challenge, but that’s not the case here. The Polestar 2 line-up is a pretty simple one and that’s reflected in the models we offer here at elmo.

There are two battery choices to choose from – either the Standard range with a 64kWh battery or the Long range with a 78kWh battery and both are front-wheel drive and will get from 0 to 60mph in 7.0 seconds with a 100mph top speed.

Once you’ve picked the battery you want, there are three versions with elmo to choose from – the standard model, the Pilot pack or Plus pack. For more info of each of the packages, head over to our dedicated article here.

What are the range and charging times like?

Range is rarely far from the conversation when it comes to new EVs, but the Polestar 2 doesn’t disappoint. The Standard Range model has an official WLTP range of 275 miles, while the Long range version increases that to an impressive 336 miles. That’s enough to get you from London to Newcastle on a single charge.

Both models will go from 10-80% charge in around 35 minutes at a 150kW rapid charger. On a home charger, the Standard Range achieves a full charge in seven hours, while the Long Range takes just eight hours.

What about the interior?

This is undoubtedly where the Polestar 2 really sets itself apart. From the moment you climb behind the wheel, there’s a real premium feel here. Yes, yes, we know that’s what everyone says these days, right down to a budget supermini, but here it’s actually true.

The build quality of the Polestar 2 is exceptional. Everything from the materials used to basics like how the switches operate simply feels right. The change of materials and surfaces on the dashboard and the door make it feel like you’ve stepped into the living room of some trendy Scandi drama. Without wishing to get too philosophical, there’s no question that the Polestar 2 is a relaxing, comforting and comfortable place to be.

Don’t mistake that relaxation with low tech though, far from it. The portrait-style large infotainment screen operates most of the car controls. The system has Google Automotive Services built in, so there’s voice control for easier operation on the move; you can also configure elements of the car, plan your route and tailor numerous functions to suit your needs.

On a more practical note, there’s a third Isofix child seat mounting point on the front passenger seat and there’s a decent 405-litre boot with a large under-floor storage area too. Under the front ‘bonnet’ there’s also a useful cubby for the charging cables.

How does the Polestar 2 drive on the road?

As you’d expect by now, it’s fabulous to drive. With its 7.0-second 0-to-60mph time, it’s obviously quick enough from standstill, but there’s also excellent mid-range punch for when you want to overtake or accelerate down a slip-road.

The steering is sharp and direct and with little body roll, giving it a real feel of being a driver’s car – not often the case with EVs. Better still, the infotainment screen allows you to tailor parts of the car to your preference, from the weight of the steering to the strength of the regenerative braking (which, on the highest setting, will even bring the car to a halt) and also whether you want the car to creep like a normal automatic or not.

Like the sound of all that?

Polestar has a bright future and, for us, is one of the most exciting all-electric car companies on the market. That’s why we’ve partnered up to offer the Polestar 2 on subscription.

With its combination of bold good looks, excellent build quality and equipment and decent range, we think it’s an excellent choice for those looking for a Tesla Model 3 alternative.

Would it fit your lifestyle?

Try our Suitability Tool to find out and if you’re interested in trying one on subscription, head over to our electric cars page to get started.