Polestar 2 Review 2021
Rivalling the Tesla Model 3, the new all-electric performance-focused Polestar 2 brings cool, Scandinavian style to the premium electric sector.
Based on the same underpinnings as the popular Volvo XC40, the Polestar 2 delivers quality, style and low electric running costs to give rivals such as the Audi E-Tron and Jaguar I-Pace a run for their money.
Our Polestar 2 review covers:
- Fastback-styled family car with suave Scandinavian style
- Classy upmarket interior with 11.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 60/40 split rear seats with decent 405-litre boot
- 78kWh battery with two electric motors for 402bhp
- 230-mile range with 80% battery power in 27 mins using a 150kW rapid charger
With its suave Scandinavian aesthetic, the Polestar 2 is a fastback-styled family car with stacks of cool. Its understated exterior look boasts simple, bold lines, Thor-hammer LED daytime running lights and a striking back rear light bar.
As expected from a family car, space is not an issue with a generous amount of head and legroom inside, as well as decent storage options including cup holders, a central armrest cubby and slim door bins.
In terms of practicality, the Polestar 2's rear seats fold in a 60/40 configuration with its hatchback-style boot offering a decent 405 litres, which extends to 1,095 litres with the rear seats folded. There's also underfloor storage that's ideal for storing the charging cables and an extra 35 litres of storage up front.
Inside, the Polestar 2 boasts a classy upmarket interior with a nice mix of plush dashboard materials and inserts. Features like the frameless door mirrors and standard panoramic glass also help make the interior feel nice and airy.
The star of the show is the rising centre console and the 11.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which controls everything from the stereo to the heating and the navigation. Google Maps and Google Assistant are included as standard, but you can't watch Netflix or play computer games like you can in the Tesla Model 3.
In keeping with its unique sense of style, Polestar has done away with traditional trim levels. Instead, specific 'themes' are available, inspired by different cities, to bring together different colour and trim combinations for the cabin and exterior bodywork.
There's also an additional Performance pack available at an additional cost which adds Brembo brakes, Ohlins dampers and 20-inch forged alloy wheels, along with gold-coloured seat belts to match the colour of the brake callipers.
The Polestar 2 has a 78kWh battery that powers two electric motors to produce 402bhp and 487lb-ft of torque, which is more than you get in the Long Range version of the Tesla Model 3. Yet the Polestar 2 can't match Model 3's for outright sprinting ability, with a 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and a 127mph top speed.
With a 230-mile range, daily travel shouldn't be an issue. Using a 150kW rapid charger, you can recharge the Polestar 2 up to 80% battery power in just 27 minutes. At home, using a 7kW wall box charger will take you from empty to full power in just under eight hours.
In terms of ride comfort, the Polestar 2 is on the firm side and isn't quite as comfortable as the Jaguar I-Pace. However, the car feels smooth and settled at motorway speeds, and despite its hefty 2.2-tonne kerb weight, its handling is pretty good and is fun to drive.
Prices for the new Polestar 2 start from £42,150.00 OTR* or to lease from £483.00 per month.
Car leasing offers many benefits overs buying, including fixed monthly rentals, a low initial outlay and inclusive breakdown cover and road tax. Lease the Polestar 2 with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, and we'll also deliver your new vehicle directly to your doorstep, provided your address is situated on the GB mainland (exclusions apply).
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and typically includes one year’s road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Always check with the manufacturer.
