First Drive - EV Review - Polestar 2

Review: Polestar 2

What is it?

Polestar is scything a cool new angle through the electric car market. A relative newcomer to the scene, Polestar has really come into its own since becoming a standalone brand away from parent company Volvo. Though Polestar does share many things with Volvo - and the wider Geely group which owns both - it has determined its own ‘personality’ through typically Scandinavian-infused models.

Core to its product range is this - the Polestar 2. Currently the firm’s only fully electric offering, it’s designed to go up against the all-conquering Tesla Model 3. But what’s it like? We’ve been finding out.

What’s new?

The Polestar 2 offers plenty of range

The Polestar 2 is a car which aims to blend cutting-edge tech with some reassuringly old-school features. It’s why you’ve got a completely Android-based infotainment system, yet there are plenty of traditional materials - like the wood dashboard accents - used throughout.

It adopts a kind of semi-hatchback design, too, which helps to bring a larger boot and more interior space.

What’s under the bonnet?

There are four distinct powertrain options to choose from with the 2 - Standard range Single motor, Long range single motor, Long range Dual motor and Long range Dual motor with the Performance pack. They’re pretty self-explanatory, but you’ll want the long-range dual motor if you want the best range - 394 miles - or the Performance Pack variant if you’re after peak acceleration, with 0-60mph coming in just four seconds.

Long range versions can accept the fastest charge, too, at 205kW, which means a 10 to 80 per cent charge could be finished in as little as 28 minutes. You’d be looking at around 34 minutes for the same level of charge in standard range models, which can only charge at speeds of up to 135kW.

What’s it like to drive?

The Polestar 2 feels relaxed, refined and comfortable to drive. The overarching sensation you get is of quiet as, with a lack of engine noise and a pleasantly squeak-free cabin, everything is nicely hushed. It makes the whole experience relaxing.

If you opt for the Performance Pack, there’s some serious, well, performance on offer. The dual-motor setup means you get all-wheel-drive so it’s got loads of traction, even in poor conditions. Having said that, even more ‘regular’ versions feel noticeably quicker than an equivalent size petrol or diesel model.

How does it look?

There's a full-width light bar at the rear

There’s definitely some of that Scandi flair on the outside, too, with the Polestar 2’s exterior design looking refreshingly ‘clean’ compared with some other EVs on sale today. The front lights play noticeably close to those on the latest Volvo models, too, but the square front nose and new logo help to differentiate them.

Around the back, there’s a really eye-catching full-width light bar which looks particularly striking at night. If you see the 2 in the dark, you’ll know it’s a Polestar - that’s for sure.

What’s it like inside?

There's loads of technology inside the Polestar 2

The interior of the Polestar 2 feels quite stripped back in design, but it’s very comfortable and well-appointed. You can have it finished in Vegan-friendly materials, too, including clever WeaveTech materials which are both dirt and moisture-resistant - so it’s a great option if you’re transporting a busy family.

An optional panoramic roof is a great touch for adding extra light to the cabin, too. Plus, with a 405-litre boot, the Polestar 2 has got more than enough luggage space for most occasions.

What’s the spec like?

There’s plenty of equipment on board the Polestar 2 as standard. As mentioned, the main infotainment system uses Android’s Auto system, accessed via an 11-inch touchscreen. It’s really clear and easy to use, with the integrated apps - like Google Maps - working particularly smoothly.

The car’s on-board voice assistant is also very useful. All you need to do is say ‘Hey Google’ - as you might do with a smartphone or smart speaker - and it lets you change loads of the car’s features and settings.

Verdict

The Polestar 2 carves a pleasantly ‘different’ line through the EV segment. It’s tied together with some brilliant tech, however, which backs up those eye-catching looks and minimalist cabin.

It’s great to drive, too, while there’s more than enough range for most occasions. If you’re in the market for an EV - and fancy standing out from the crowd a little bit - the Polestar 2 is well worth checking out.