Are you in the market for an electric vehicle, but Tesla isn’t quite your speed? Look no further than the 2023 Polestar 2, a formidable competitor to electric heavyweights like the Tesla Model 3, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. As a spin-off from Volvo and a publicly listed company, Polestar focuses exclusively on crafting electric vehicles. In this detailed review, we’ll explore the 2023 Polestar 2, diving into its exterior design, interior features, technology, driving experience, and more.
Exterior Design
The Polestar 2 boasts a sleek and intelligent design, with six external colours to choose from. Notable features include a matte black finish on the grill, a 360-degree camera, and distinctive LED headlights. The car’s platform is derived from the Volvo XC40, showcasing a smart adaptation of an internal combustion platform to an electric vehicle. Despite some quirks, such as limited storage under the hood, the Polestar 2’s exterior design exudes sophistication and modernity.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside the Polestar 2, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed and functional interior. The vegan interior, emphasized by the Polestar team, incorporates sustainable and ethically sourced materials. The layout strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, with a head-up display, a central infotainment system, and user-friendly controls. The vegan seats offer a comfortable driving experience, while the second row, though tight, features heated seats and practical amenities.
Infotainment and Technology
Polestar 2’s infotainment system takes centre stage with an 11.2-inch display and an additional screen for the driver. Utilizing Android Automotive, the system integrates Google Maps and a Play Store for downloading apps. The absence of Android Auto, while Apple CarPlay is present but wired, maybe a minor drawback. The optional 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system stands out, albeit as part of a premium package.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety features in the Polestar 2 include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and lane-keeping assistance. However, certain advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and radar cruise control, are available as part of an optional package. While the safety tech is commendable, the need to pay extra for some features may be a drawback for safety-conscious buyers.
Practicality and Cargo Space
The Polestar 2 offers a reasonable amount of cargo space, with over 400 litres available in the hatch. Practicality is enhanced by thoughtful touches, such as a power tailgate, additional storage under the front hood, and a flat-folding second-row seat for expanded cargo capacity. However, some may find the rear legroom lacking, and the presence of a driveline hump could be a concern for passenger comfort.
Charging and Driving Experience
Equipped with a 78-kilowatt-hour battery, the Polestar 2 supports AC charging up to 11 kilowatts and DC charging of up to 155 kilowatts. While the driving experience is commendable, the single motor’s torque limitations may result in a less aggressive zero-to-100-kilometer time compared to dual-motor counterparts. The ride quality, although firm, contributes to a stable and responsive driving experience, showcasing the Polestar 2’s dynamic capabilities.
Polestar 2 Price
The 2024 Polestar 2 Price starts at $51,300 and goes up to $64,400 depending on trim and extras.
Verdict
In conclusion, the 2023 Polestar 2 emerges as a strong contender in the electric vehicle market. Despite some compromises in rear legroom and driveline design, the Polestar 2 shines in terms of technology, infotainment, and overall driving experience. It caters to those seeking an alternative to the Tesla Model 3, offering a distinctive and sophisticated electric option. While it may not be without its flaws, the Polestar 2’s combination of style, technology, and eco-friendly materials make it a compelling choice in the electric vehicle landscape.
