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2025 Polestar 4: A Bold Vision for the Electric Future – An Expert Review

As the automotive landscape hurtles towards an all-electric future, the contenders aren’t just multiplying; they’re evolving in sophistication, style, and substance. Enter the 2025 Polestar 4, a vehicle that doesn’t just join the fray – it aims to carve out an entirely new niche. Having navigated the intricacies of the EV market for over a decade, witnessing its transformation from nascent innovation to mainstream powerhouse, I can confidently say the Polestar 4 is more than just another electric SUV. It’s a statement, a design-led proposition poised to redefine expectations in the premium electric crossover segment.

Polestar, the performance electric offshoot of Volvo, has been steadily building its portfolio with distinct, minimalist, yet highly capable EVs. From the sleek Polestar 2 sedan that introduced many to the brand’s unique ethos, to the recently launched, larger Polestar 3 SUV, each model has pushed boundaries. But it’s the Polestar 4, a captivating coupe-SUV with a fastback silhouette and an audacious approach to design, that is arguably its most significant and intriguing offering yet. Positioned to be the brand’s volume seller, the 4 arrives in a fiercely competitive market, directly challenging established players like the Tesla Model Y while aiming for a more upscale clientele with its refined aesthetics and innovative features.

This isn’t just about zero emissions; it’s about a holistic experience, blending breathtaking performance with thoughtful sustainable materials and cutting-edge technology. The Polestar 4 endeavors to deliver on a promise of luxury, efficiency, and a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and uniquely Polestar. Is this the vehicle that will not only capture attention but also reshape what we expect from a premium electric vehicle in 2025? Let’s dive deep into what makes the Polestar 4 a standout contender.

The Polestar 4 in the 2025 EV Arena: Redefining Premium Electric Mobility

In the rapidly expanding 2025 electric vehicle market, the Polestar 4 doesn’t just compete; it differentiates. Priced to appeal to a discerning buyer looking beyond the mass market, the Polestar 4 is positioned strategically above the Tesla Model Y in terms of its premium feel and material quality, albeit with a starting price that reflects this elevated status. With initial pricing for the Long Range Single Motor rear-wheel drive variant beginning around $60,000 (estimates for the US market, subject to change) and the Long Range Dual Motor all-wheel drive pushing towards $70,000 before destination charges and options, it aligns itself with a more upscale segment.

Key competitors in this space in the US include the top trims of the Tesla Model Y, the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, the Genesis GV60, and potentially the Audi Q4 e-tron. What sets the Polestar 4 apart immediately is its unwavering commitment to a cohesive design language and a philosophy of “progressive luxury.” The brand’s decision to offer an identical, robust standard features list across both initial grades, with powertrain as the primary differentiator, simplifies the buying process while ensuring a high baseline of equipment for every customer.

Even the base model of the 2025 Polestar 4 comes loaded with impressive technology. The Android Automotive operating system, seamlessly integrated with “Google Built-in,” offers a user experience that’s both familiar and intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay, an eight-speaker audio system, and a commanding 15.4-inch multimedia display serve as the digital nerve center. Comfort isn’t overlooked either, with eight-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat and six-way for the passenger. A suite of thoughtful touches like rain-sensing wipers, digital key functionality, keyless entry and drive, wireless device charging, heated front seats, digital radio, and a panoramic glass roof all come standard. It’s a comprehensive package that immediately signals its premium aspirations.

However, as an expert who values both innovation and practicality, I do note that Polestar, like many premium brands, reserves some highly desirable features for optional packages. While the standard kit is substantial, essentials like a head-up display, which significantly enhances driver convenience and safety, are bundled into the $5,500 ‘Plus Pack’ (US pricing estimate). This pack also boosts AC charging capability from 11kW to a more robust 22kW and adds heated steering wheel and rear seats – items that many buyers at this price point might expect as standard. Other options include the ‘Pro Pack’ (performance aesthetics), a Nappa leather interior upgrade, and the ‘Performance Pack’ (exclusive to the Dual Motor for enhanced dynamics). While customization is always welcome, I believe a few more core enhancements should be part of the standard offering to truly solidify its premium value proposition without requiring significant upcharges. This is a crucial consideration for customers navigating the competitive landscape of Luxury Electric SUV 2025 models.

A Masterclass in Modern Design: Exterior & Interior Aesthetics

Polestar has consistently championed design as a core pillar, and the 2025 Polestar 4 stands as a testament to this philosophy. It’s an unmistakably handsome vehicle that makes a bold visual statement. While technically categorized as a medium SUV, its profile challenges convention with a distinct fastback, “coupe-SUV” form factor that evokes motion even when stationary. From an expert’s perspective, this isn’t just about styling; it’s about crafting an identity that resonates in a sea of increasingly similar electric vehicles.

The exterior is a symphony of sleek lines and purposeful stance. The signature split LED headlights, an evolution of Polestar’s “Thor’s Hammer” design, lend a fierce yet sophisticated gaze, complementing the low-set front end. Despite its elevated ride height, typical of an SUV, the 4 manages to maintain a sporty, grounded appearance. It’s a delicate balance that few vehicles achieve so elegantly.

But the most compelling, and perhaps controversial, design element of the Polestar 4 is its rear. In a radical departure, the vehicle foregoes a traditional rear windscreen. The tailgate is crafted from aluminum panels, creating a solid, sculpted aesthetic, while the expansive panoramic glass roof stretches back to meet the top edge of this unique tailgate. The squared-off rear, housing gorgeous full-width taillights, is not just striking but genuinely distinctive. While the absence of a conventional rear window initially raises eyebrows, in person, it contributes to an undeniably sleek and aerodynamic silhouette. It’s a design risk that, for me, largely pays off, marking the Polestar 4 as a true Best EV for Design.

Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re greeted by an interior that can only be described as stylish minimalism. Unlike some competitors that lean towards an overly stark, appliance-like aesthetic, Polestar’s cabin exudes warmth and sophistication. It’s clear that immense thought went into every detail, from the integrated air vents that seamlessly blend into the dashboard to the elegant flat-bottom steering wheel. The cabin architecture is clean, with an almost complete absence of physical buttons, contributing to its uncluttered appearance. This approach, while visually appealing, does necessitate a reliance on the central touchscreen for most functions, a point we’ll explore further in terms of practicality.

The material palette is a carefully curated blend of modernity and sustainability, a hallmark of Polestar’s brand identity. A mix of whites, light, and dark grays creates a serene yet dynamic ambiance, occasionally punctuated by subtle pops of color, such as the optional gold seatbelts. A significant portion of the interior utilizes recycled materials, from the floor mats to the dash toppers and seat upholstery. Polestar has intelligently drawn inspiration from high fashion and sportswear industries, translating these influences into durable, tactile, and aesthetically pleasing sustainable textiles. This commitment to Sustainable Vehicle Technology without compromising on luxury is a significant differentiator, ensuring that the Polestar 4’s cabin feels special and premium, not just environmentally conscious. Whether it’s the standard fabric inspired by diving suits or the exquisite optional Nappa leather (sourced ethically with animal welfare in mind), the sensory experience is consistently high-quality and inviting, marking it as a benchmark for Next Generation EV Interiors.

Innovation Meets Usability: Practicality & In-Cabin Technology

My ten years in the EV space have taught me that groundbreaking technology, while exciting, must ultimately serve the user. The Polestar 4’s interior is a fascinating blend of brilliant innovation and some choices that prompt discussion. Upon settling into the driver’s seat, the elevated center console is immediately noticeable – a characteristic shared with the Polestar 2. While this design choice contributes to a sporty, cockpit-like feel, its height does create a more cocooned sensation that some drivers might find a touch restrictive. However, this design ingeniously liberates a cavernous storage area beneath the console, large enough to stow bags, shoes, or other personal items, an excellent example of smart space utilization in a Premium EV Crossover.

Further storage solutions include a moderately sized central bin housing two USB-C ports, a discreet wireless phone charging pad, and door bins capable of holding larger bottles, albeit horizontally. The seats themselves are supremely comfortable, offering excellent support. The sustainable fabric in the Single Motor variant is aesthetically pleasing and durable, though its texture can occasionally grip clothing. For those seeking ultimate luxury, the perforated Zinc-colored Nappa leather in the Dual Motor is genuinely stunning and adds another layer of sophistication. Opting for the Nappa upgrade also brings the intriguing addition of Harman Kardon speakers embedded directly into the front headrests, delivering a surprisingly immersive and personalized audio experience.

The digital-first approach means that nearly every function is routed through the crisp, responsive 15.4-inch landscape digital display. Running on Android Automotive OS with Google Built-in, the system is intuitive, leveraging the power of Google Maps for navigation and providing seamless integration with apps like Spotify. The screen is intelligently split, allowing for simultaneous display of navigation and up to four other customizable functions, ensuring critical information is always at hand. Graphics are sharp, colors vibrant, and the overall user interface is remarkably well-executed. Even climate controls, often a pain point in screen-centric cabins, are readily accessible and straightforward to adjust, with the ability to precisely direct airflow via the screen – even oscillating on the passenger side. The solar system-themed ambient lighting, where you select colors by planetary bodies, is a delightful, whimsical touch. And for hands-free operation, the “Hey Google” voice command system performs admirably.

However, a seasoned expert must critically assess whether all technological advancements genuinely enhance the user experience. While the almost buttonless interior looks sleek, certain basic functions feel unnecessarily convoluted when relegated to a screen. For instance, accessing the glove box via a menu feels like technology for technology’s sake. Similarly, adjusting exterior mirrors and the steering wheel, while controllable through clever multi-function steering wheel controls, requires a learning curve that might frustrate some users. While impressive, these solutions sometimes sacrifice immediate practicality for a minimalist aesthetic, begging the question of whether every EV needs to emulate Tesla’s interior philosophy.

Then there’s the much-debated digital interior rearview mirror. This innovation directly addresses the controversial absence of a rear windscreen. While the solid tailgate design is visually impactful and doesn’t negatively affect the car’s exterior aesthetics, the digital mirror replaces a fundamental aspect of driving – direct rearward vision. The display itself is clear and offers a wide field of view, but my primary concern revolves around the perception of depth and continuity when transitioning visual focus between the digital mirror and the physical side mirrors. Objects in the digital display often appear closer than their counterparts in the side mirrors, requiring mental recalibration. Furthermore, the camera lacks a washer, with Polestar suggesting its angle prevents dirt accumulation – a claim that remains to be rigorously tested in real-world, diverse weather conditions. The larger question I pose is, what is the genuine practical benefit of this radical alteration to justify the potential drawbacks? While many vehicles (trucks, vans, heavily loaded cars) block rear views, this is a design choice, not a necessity. While some will undoubtedly be drawn to the sheer novelty of this advanced EV Technology 2025, for a significant portion of drivers, it may feel like an answer to a question no one asked.

In terms of rear passenger comfort, the slightly sculpted seats are plush and supportive. Thanks to the Polestar 4’s generous 4.8-meter wheelbase, legroom is abundant, making for a genuinely spacious cabin. However, the placement of the battery pack under the floor means rear passengers’ knees sit higher than in a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) car, a common phenomenon in EVs, including Tesla models. Toe room under the front seats is also limited. On the upside, the rear seats offer a slight recline for enhanced comfort. Amenities include rear digital climate controls, additional USB-C ports, chest and knee-level air vents, and a fold-down armrest with cupholders – though large bottles won’t fit in the doors.

Cargo capacity is respectable, with 526 liters (approximately 18.6 cubic feet) including a useful under-floor compartment ideal for charging cables and flatter items. Folding the 60/40 split rear seats expands this to 1536 liters (about 54.2 cubic feet). A 15-liter (0.5 cubic feet) front cargo space (frunk) adds further utility. Polestar provides a tire repair kit, but notably, no temporary spare, which is an important consideration for US drivers accustomed to greater roadside assistance options.

Unleashing Power & Efficiency: Powertrain and Range

Beneath its sleek exterior, the 2025 Polestar 4 houses a robust electric powertrain designed for both exhilarating performance and impressive efficiency. It offers two distinct configurations, each tailored to different driving preferences. Both variants draw power from a sophisticated 400-volt, 100kWh lithium-ion battery.

The Long Range Single Motor variant drives the rear wheels exclusively, delivering a potent 200kW (approximately 268 horsepower) and 343Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque. This is far from sluggish, enabling the SUV to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a brisk 6.7 seconds (converting from 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds), with a top speed of 124 mph. This configuration prioritizes range and a more traditional rear-wheel-drive feel.

For those craving more outright performance, the Long Range Dual Motor variant adds a second electric motor to the front axle, providing all-wheel-drive grip and significantly boosting output to a staggering 400kW (approximately 536 horsepower) and 686Nm (506 lb-ft) of torque. This translates into truly rapid acceleration, hitting 60 mph in an astonishing 3.6 seconds (converting from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds), making it the fastest Polestar model to date. It’s a performance envelope that rivals many high-end sports cars, placing it firmly in the elite category of Electric Car Performance Specs.

When it comes to Long Range Electric Vehicles, the Polestar 4 delivers solid numbers. The Long Range Single Motor boasts an estimated WLTP driving range of up to 620km (approximately 385 miles), with energy consumption ranging from 17.8 to 18.1 kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers. While EPA figures for the US market will likely be slightly lower, this suggests a highly competitive range. The Dual Motor’s increased power naturally reduces its range slightly, offering an estimated WLTP range of 590km (approximately 366 miles) and efficiency between 18.7 and 21.7 kWh/100km. These figures are excellent for the segment and position the Polestar 4 favorably against its rivals.

Charging capabilities are equally competitive. Standard AC charging is at 11kW, allowing for an overnight charge at home. However, opting for the Plus Pack significantly upgrades this to 22kW, which can achieve a zero to 100 percent home charge (on a 32-amp circuit) in a mere five and a half hours – an impressive feat that dramatically enhances convenience for home charging solutions. For rapid top-ups on the go, the Polestar 4 supports DC fast charging at up to 200kW, allowing the battery to go from 10 to 80 percent full in approximately 30 minutes, crucial for long-distance travel and aligning with the best EV Charging Solutions Home and Public available today. The vehicle comes equipped with a Type 2 and CCS2 charge port, along with a home charging cable, ensuring broad compatibility with the expanding charging infrastructure. These robust powertrain and charging statistics underscore the Polestar 4’s capability as a truly modern electric vehicle, reflecting the advancements in EV Battery Technology 2025.

Behind the Wheel: The Driving Experience

As someone who has driven countless EVs across various brands and segments, I often find a certain homogeneity in the driving experience. The 2025 Polestar 4 thankfully breaks this mold, offering a distinctive and engaging character. Having extensively driven both the Single Motor and Dual Motor variants (the latter with the Performance Pack), I can attest to their unique appeals.

The Single Motor Polestar 4 is, in my expert opinion, the ideal everyday electric vehicle. Its 268 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque provide more than ample thrust for daily commutes and spirited highway merges, with the 0-60 mph sprint time of 6.7 seconds being perfectly respectable. Riding on the standard 20-inch aero wheels, which allow for a higher tire sidewall, the Single Motor variant delivers a remarkably composed and comfortable ride quality. Even on winding, imperfect roads, the vehicle maintains its composure, absorbing bumps and undulations with a level of refinement that belies its sporty demeanor. It’s certainly not a magic carpet ride like some luxury sedans, but Polestar has masterfully ironed out most of the firmness that can often plague EVs, creating a truly pleasant ride for a Premium EV Crossover.

Steering in the Single Motor feels light yet incredibly sharp, offering precise control and a confidence-inspiring connection to the road. While there’s a subtle hint of body roll when pushed hard through corners, the vehicle remains exceptionally capable and balanced. Crucially, it manages to mask its 4,916-pound (2230kg) curb weight remarkably well, feeling far more nimble and agile than its dimensions suggest. This makes for an engaging drive that rewards the driver without being overly aggressive.

Switching to the Dual Motor variant, especially when equipped with the Performance Pack, is like stepping into a different realm. The Performance Pack adds significant upgrades, including high-performance Brembo brake calipers and a “Polestar Engineered” chassis tune that transforms the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities. This car is brutally quick from a standing start – the kind of acceleration that pins you to your seat, achieving 0-60 mph in a breathtaking 3.6 seconds. It’s not just a straight-line speed demon, however. The Dual Motor carves through corners with exceptional precision, demonstrating remarkable grip and minimal body roll for a vehicle of its size and weight. We safely pushed it through turns that would challenge many dedicated sports cars, a testament to its expertly tuned chassis and Electric Vehicle Performance.

The Dual Motor also offers adjustable driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the experience to their preference. Suspension settings range from ‘Standard’ to ‘Nimble’ and ‘Firm,’ impacting ride comfort and body control. Steering can be set to ‘Standard’ or ‘Firm,’ with the latter adding a satisfying heft and directness. Power delivery can be toggled between ‘Range’ and ‘Performance,’ with the latter unleashing the full potency of its dual motors. Even in ‘Standard’ suspension mode, the Dual Motor’s ride is noticeably firmer than the Single Motor, partly due to the massive 22-inch wheels often chosen with the Performance Pack. However, it’s never harsh or unbearable, maintaining a sophisticated compliance even over less-than-perfect road surfaces.

Throughout both driving experiences, the Polestar 4 maintains a commendably hushed cabin. Excellent insulation ensures that road noise, wind noise, and even the subtle hum of electric motors are effectively minimized, contributing to a serene and premium atmosphere. This attention to detail in NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) further elevates the Polestar 4 Driving Dynamics and overall passenger comfort.

Safety & The Polestar Promise: Warranty and Ownership

The 2025 Polestar 4 benefits immensely from its deep roots within the Geely-Volvo ecosystem, inheriting an extensive suite of advanced safety features and a robust underlying architecture. While the vehicle is yet to undergo official assessment by independent safety organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US, or Euro NCAP/ANCAP globally, its standard equipment list inspires confidence. Polestar’s commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) fitted as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, ‘Collision Avoidance and Mitigation’ with forward collision warning, ‘Run-off Road Mitigation,’ lane-keeping aid, ‘Post Impact Braking,’ road sign recognition, and ‘Driver Alert Control.’

Further enhancing its safety credentials are systems like the ‘Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with steer assist,’ which actively helps prevent lane change collisions, cross-traffic alert with brake support, and rear collision warning and mitigation. The Polestar 4 is a veritable sensor array on wheels, integrating 11 exterior cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a powerful front radar to continuously monitor its surroundings. It also comes standard with the ‘Pilot Pack,’ which includes advanced features like lane change assist and Pilot Assist, offering Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities that reduce driver fatigue on long journeys and contribute to a safer, more relaxed driving experience. For those prioritizing cutting-edge protection, the Polestar 4 Safety features are truly impressive.

Beyond safety, Polestar offers a compelling ownership package that adds significant value. The Polestar 4 is backed by a generous five-year, unlimited mileage new-vehicle warranty, providing peace of mind for an extended period. The crucial high-voltage battery is covered by an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first, a standard in the industry but reassuring nonetheless. Complimentary roadside assistance is included for the first five years of ownership.

Perhaps the most outstanding aspect of the ownership proposition is the complimentary servicing. Polestar covers all scheduled maintenance costs for the first five years or 50,000 miles of ownership, whichever comes first. This means no service bills for a substantial period, significantly reducing the EV Ownership Costs and enhancing the overall value proposition. With service intervals typically every two years or 30,000 miles, this essentially means worry-free maintenance for most owners during their initial years. This level of after-sales support is an exceptional offering in the premium segment and truly sets Polestar apart, underscoring its commitment to a hassle-free EV Warranty and ownership experience.

The Verdict: Is the 2025 Polestar 4 Your Next Electric Dream?

After an immersive experience with the 2025 Polestar 4, it’s clear that this vehicle is a force to be reckoned with in the premium electric segment. Polestar has meticulously crafted a vehicle that not only challenges the dominant players but also elevates the driving and ownership experience. From an expert perspective, the Polestar 4 feels distinctly more premium and thoughtfully designed than many of its rivals, particularly when compared to the ubiquitous Tesla Model Y. The interior, with its sustainable materials and sophisticated minimalism, doesn’t just look good; it genuinely feels special, a testament to quality that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly commands respect.

While I maintain some reservations about the digital-only approach for certain basic functions and the fundamental shift represented by the digital rear-view mirror, I acknowledge that these innovations will undoubtedly attract a significant demographic of tech-forward buyers. The appeal of groundbreaking technology is undeniable, and Polestar has certainly delivered on that front.

On the road, the Polestar 4 is an undeniably cracking EV. Its exceptional driving range, whether in Single or Dual Motor guise, provides ample freedom. More importantly, it offers a dynamic, engaging, and genuinely fun driving experience that makes every journey an event. The expertly tuned chassis, responsive steering, and potent powertrains deliver a blend of comfort and performance that is hard to beat. And to top it all off, the outstanding complimentary after-sales servicing package is the cherry on the cake, significantly enhancing its value proposition.

The 2025 Polestar 4 isn’t just an electric SUV; it’s a bold vision for the future of sustainable, performance-driven luxury. It’s a compelling choice for those seeking a unique blend of cutting-edge design, exhilarating performance, and a forward-thinking approach to automotive ownership. Polestar has successfully created a vehicle that is not only ready for the masses but poised to redefine their expectations.

Ready to experience the future of electric driving? Dive deeper into the innovative world of the 2025 Polestar 4. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or explore the official Polestar website today to configure your ideal electric coupe-SUV and discover how sustainable performance can elevate your everyday journey. Don’t just drive electric – drive Polestar.