The modern electric vehicle (EV) landscape is rapidly evolving, primarily defined by newcomers reshaping the auto industry. The Tesla Model S captured the public’s imagination in a way that the Nissan Leaf couldn’t, setting a benchmark for electrified driving. This dynamic has led many established automakers to appear as followers rather than leaders in the EV space. To reinvigorate its brand identity, Volvo introduced Polestar, an EV spinoff brand designed to harness some of that startup charm.
The 2026 Polestar 4 marks a significant step forward for the brand. It represents a model that genuinely feels distinct from anything Volvo offers. However, in a saturated market filled with dedicated brands, Polestar must deliver a standout experience that resonates with tech-savvy buyers. The standards are high; the 4 needs to excel.
It’s the most distinctive model from a star-crossed EV brand
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Polestar boasts an interesting backstory. Initially established as an independent company, it focused on racing and performance parts for Volvos. Volvo recognized Polestar’s talent and incorporated it as an in-house performance division, similar to BMW’s M or Mercedes-AMG. However, with the rise of electric vehicles, the Polestar brand was reimagined, transforming it into a standalone EV division that merges Volvo’s resources with the spirit of a startup like Tesla, Lucid, or Rivian.
It has taken time for Polestar to carve out its unique identity. Previous models, such as the Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid and Polestar 2 hatch, were adapted from Volvo’s concepts. The Polestar 3 electric SUV showcased a blend of design cues but retained elements from Volvo’s SPA2 architecture. However, the Polestar 4 strives to establish a clear distinction, utilizing Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) and featuring components primarily sourced from China, while final assembly occurs in a Renault plant in South Korea. This intricate globalization strategy was designed to navigate U.S. trade policies affecting China-made vehicles, a tactic complicated by recent tariffs on Korean imports.
It defies categorization
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Much like Polestar’s ethos, the Polestar 4 straddles various automotive categories. Marketed as an SUV coupe, its streamlined design and low ride height lend it a profile more akin to a sporty hatchback. Measuring 190.5 inches in length and 84.2 inches in width, it surpasses the Porsche Macan Electric in length, while standing three inches shorter in height.
Interestingly, the Polestar 4 opts for a design decision that eliminates the rear window. Officials at Polestar argue that the absence of a rear window boosts rear-seat headroom. Instead, a digital rearview mirror, common in several vehicles, offers unobstructed visibility without the interference of pillars or passengers. This design choice enhances the spaciousness for rear-seat passengers, whose experience is elevated by available reclining seating.
Despite this practicality, the design’s blank panel where a window typically resides may not fulfill aesthetic expectations. In contrast, the front showcases a striking beak-like shape with headlights resembling phasers targeting an enemy ship. The lower bumper and body sides are crafted from black plastic, aimed at camouflaging the 4’s thicker midsection.
It shows that high-tech minimalism has drawbacks
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The interior of the Polestar 4 leans into a minimalist Swedish aesthetic, featuring elegant lines and sustainable materials. Upholstery made from 89% recycled PET plastic or polyester-like MicroTech fits comfortably into the luxurious atmosphere. However, this minimalism leans heavily on form over function.
With a lack of physical controls, starting the car is as simple as sitting down after unlocking it. Other controls, such as ventilation and mirrors, rely on a large 15.4-inch touchscreen that works alongside a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. An optional 14.7-inch head-up display and 5.7-inch rear-seat screen can enhance the digital experience. While the Android-based infotainment system supports integrated Google services and wireless Apple CarPlay, its reliance on touch, combined with a plethora of settings, may make the interface feel overwhelming.
In a time when touchscreen technology is ubiquitous, the Polestar 4’s interface could benefit from a thoughtful reevaluation. Unlike physical controls, which offer immediate feedback, touchscreens require visual attention, potentially compromising the driving experience.
It’s good to drive, but not good enough to overlook its inefficiency
Stephen Edelstein/Digital Trends
The Polestar 4 is available in both single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive versions. Each configuration is equipped with a 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The single-motor version generates 272 horsepower and achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds, while the dual-motor variant boasts 544 hp, reaching 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. This competitive performance aligns well with its pricing, as comparable models like the Cadillac Lyriq-V command several thousand more.
Behind the wheel, the dual-motor model feels responsive and smooth, accelerating subtly yet powerfully. However, the driving experience is not without its drawbacks. The Polestar 4’s range ratings of 310 miles for single-motor and 280 miles for dual-motor versions are underwhelming compared to its battery size. Additionally, real-world testing in colder conditions resulted in an average of 2.8 miles per kilowatt-hour—lower than anticipated.
Charging performance also presents challenges. While the vehicle claims a maximum DC fast-charging rate of 200 kilowatts, allowing a 10%-80% charge in roughly 30 minutes, competitors with 800-volt systems can achieve similar in 20 minutes or less. Furthermore, a complete recharge from a Level 2 AC wallbox takes approximately 11 hours, according to Polestar’s estimates.
It’s impressive, but not for the reasons Polestar wants
Stephen Edelstein/Digital Trends
One of the most appealing aspects of the Polestar 4 is its pricing; the single-motor variant starts at $57,800, while the dual-motor model begins at $64,300, making it competitively priced within the premium electric SUV segment. However, many of its features that are meant to attract buyers do not significantly elevate the driving experience or innovate the segment further. The dual-motor Polestar 4 model tested, priced at $71,600 with additional driver-assist and convenience features, raises questions about the car’s overall value compared to similarly priced alternatives.
In conclusion, while the Polestar 4 features unique design elements and a premium aesthetic, it does not sufficiently advance the EV market. The screen-centric approach mirrors what other brands have done without improving usability. Its range, efficiency, and charging capabilities, while adequate, do not offer compelling reasons to choose the Polestar brand over competitors. The Polestar 4 may succeed in standing out visually, but it falls short in delivering any substantial benefits that come with its distinctive design.
For a deeper dive into the technical specifications and performance aspects of the Polestar 4, you can refer to the full article Here.
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