Polestar might seem to be defying regular business model logic with its unconventional numeric naming system. With its vehicles, the digit doesn’t correspond to the car size, curiously, the bigger, flagship car is in fact the 3, while the 4 is a marginally smaller, sportier and more economically priced option. In essence, the 4 is the superior purchase.
The Polestar 4, a low-slung crossover, is sandwiched between the rapid Polestar 2 saloon and the five-seater SUV, the Polestar 3. Its striking design is capable of holding its own against the likes of the Audi A5 Sportback, the Tesla Model Y or even the EV Porsche Macan.
With an enhanced interior and sleek design, the Polestar 4 is priced at €68,600 which is significantly lower than the exorbitant Polestar 3 by over €30,000. As a Polestar sales agent, promoting the 4 is undoubtedly the easier task.
The most notable feature of the Polestar 4 is its absence of a rear window. The design decision, according to the manufacturers, aids in optimising headroom for passengers in the back, whilst lowering the roof height, contributing to the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
Sceptics might consider this a modification similar to that of a van, however, the spared headroom in the rear seats and the sleek vehicle profile prove the decision was justified. In addition to the comfort of reclining seats akin to those in business class flights, the car offers ample space at the back.
The car’s vast glass roof ensures plenty of light influx, complementing the sizable boot space of 526 litres, common in substantial crossovers or traditional high-end family vehicles.
Rear vision is facilitated by a roof-mounted HD camera, projected on a digital rear-view mirror. Given the prevalence of rear-view cameras in vehicles ranging from trucks to mini city cars, drivers will find video navigation fairly instinctive.
Complemented by the rear reclining seats, the Polestar’s interior is highly commendable and on par with luxury brands. The use of high-end materials, like the 3D-print fabric similar to designer sneakers, adds to its allure.
The overall effect of the Polestar 4 outperforms its other Polestar counterparts, which further highlights why it stands out as the best in the series. The electric Polestar 4 is available in two versions: a 272bhp single-motor rear-wheel-drive model or a 544bhp twin-engine four-wheel-drive variant. The latter model can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds and both models are powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with an effective capacity of 94kWh.
The single-engine version boasts an official range of 620km, while the more potent four-wheel-drive version reaches 590km. Despite the temptation to choose the powerful twin-engine model, it’s far from the best choice. Although the all-wheel drive delivers a performance punch, it mirrors the Polestar 2’s sports models with additional weight and rigid springs, making it a rigid ride for daily use and a bit too firm for the average driver and passengers.
Frankly, the single-engine model is the superior choice, managing a 0-100km/h run in a respectable 7.1 seconds, providing longer range and ultimately a smoother ride. The vehicle still has all its agility intact thanks to an impressively balanced and responsive steering set-up of the Polestar 4. The car doesn’t feel cumbersome while manoeuvring through curves, which is a testament to the engineering team.
Polestar has recently been under scrutiny due to a reduced model range, corporate instability and the ongoing decline in electric car sales. The lacklustre performance of the Polestar 3 did little to support the brand’s reputation. However, the Polestar 4 may well be Polestar’s redemption. The model is unique and sophisticated, suited with a modern and chic cabin. It marries the appeal of a coupe with the utility of a crossover. While it may lack a rear window, there’s plenty of light in the cabin thanks to a large glass roof. Importantly, in single-engine form, it delivers a blend of sporty handling and comfort.
Recently, Polestar has stated that their model names will be inspired by their release order. For instance, the successor to the current Polestar 2 is probably going to be named the Polestar 7. There’s really no need to be concerned about this, though. All you need to know is that this newly-formed brand will soon introduce three models to the Irish market, with the Polestar 4 being the standout among them.
Detail: Polestar 4 Long Range Single Motor
Output: Equipped with a 200kW electric motor that delivers 272 horsepower and 343Nm of torque. This power is conveyed to the rear wheels via an automatic single-speed transmission.
Energy Use: 17.8-18.1 kWh/100km (WLTP standard).
Distance Per Charge: 620km (WLTP standard)
0 to 100km/h acceleration: Achieved in 7.1 seconds
Cost: Priced at €68,600
Rating: 4 out of 5
Conclusion: The Polestar 4 is unquestionably the shining member of Polestar’s lineup.