Polestar’s catalog of wonderfully minimalist electric vehicles (EVs) has grown quickly and now includes several models. The latest is the Polestar 4, a futuristic performance SUV with a coupe body style and a size between the Polestar 2 and 3. Interestingly, the new EV lacks a back window, which Polestar says creates a “new kind of immersive rear occupant experience.” The automaker was able to make a radical change in vehicle design by using various cameras and sensors, which also power the Polestar 4’s advanced driver assistance systems.
The Polestar 4 is available in single- and dual-motor configurations, with the single-motor setup powering the rear wheels. Performance is strong. Polestar says the SUV can run from zero-to-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.8 seconds. Polestar’s connection to Volvo means a load of advanced driver aids. The new 4 comes with an array of 12 cameras, a radar system, and a dozen ultrasonic sensors.
Polestar made several exciting design decisions with the 4, including removing the rear window. The SUV features some elements from the brand’s Precept concept car, and the front end features split-blade headlights like the Precept. Polestar says the shape enhances aerodynamics, and the retracting door handles, frameless windows, and rear body shape help make the EV slipperier and more efficient.
Polestar says it designed the 4’s interior with inspiration from sportswear and fashion brands. Following the brand’s typically minimalist styling, the cabin lacks most physical controls in favor of touch-based buttons on the infotainment screen. The front cabin is mostly blank. The only disruptions are the large screen and a small rotary dial in the center console. Sustainable interior materials feature heavily, and the automaker says it used the same base material to create several final products to reduce waste and raw materials usage.
The Polestar 4’s knit upholstery is new to the auto industry. The company makes it from 100-percent-recycled polyester and developed it with the Swedish School of Textiles. The automaker makes the material to fit, so there’s no leftover fabric and less waste. Polestar used recycled fishing nets to make the carpets, and door panels consist of a unique plastic blend that cuts the amount of new raw materials needed.
Polestar offers the 4 in single- and dual-motor configurations. The rear-wheel-drive single-motor variant sees 272 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Paired with the standard 102-kWh battery, the car returns 372 miles on the WLTP cycle. The dual-motor variant delivers 544 hp, 506 pound-feet of torque, and 348 miles of range. It’s worth noting that the European WLTP standard typically estimates a higher range number than the EPA, so these ranges will likely change for the Polestar 4’s U.S. launch.
The Polestar 4 can use 200-kW DC fast charging, and it is compatible with bi-directional charging. Polestar equips a heat pump to help precondition the battery, and drivers have several driving modes to optimize performance and range.
The Polestar 4’s array of safety kit includes 12 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, a driver monitoring camera, and other sensors. The setup provides an advanced pilot-assist system with lane-change functionality. Using the digital gauge cluster, the system also shows a real-time visualization of the environment around the vehicle. Polestar equips the 4 with a 14.7-inch head-up display that automatically shifts colors to be more visible in changing light conditions.
Polestar moved to Google Android Automotive OS and Snapdragon hardware for its infotainment system. The interface runs on a 15.4-inch landscape screen and brings Google Assistant, Maps, Google Play, and more. Polestar offers a Harman Kardon stereo upgrade, and the Polestar 4 comes with Apple CarPlay.
The Polestar 4’s sunroof features electro-chromatic functionality, allowing the passengers to shade and open the glass without needing a physical panel. In place of the rearview mirror, the high-definition screen displays a wide view of the environment around the vehicle. Drivers can deactivate the feed so the front passengers can see people in the back seat.
The Polestar 4 will likely face the Porsche Macan EV when it lands. The two share a performance ethos and should be around the same size and price. The Tesla Model Y is another likely contender and will be a significant hurdle to the Polestar 4’s success in the United States and China.
Polestar is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of April 17, 2023, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to JDPower.com, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.
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