Polestar 4’s Bold Move: No Rear Window and Next-Level EV Tech Explained
The world of electric vehicles is becoming more fascinating with each new model, and the Polestar 4 is certainly no exception. This all-electric coupe SUV is puzzling with its name and design, sitting between the Polestar 2 and 3 in terms of size and price while boasting a unique, sleek profile. Despite being called a coupe, it retains the practical four-door setup, challenging traditional categorization.
What Exactly Is the Polestar 4?
This mid-sized SUV diverges from its larger sibling, the Polestar 3, being lower, wider, and shorter with no shared chassis. Instead, it’s based on the SEA2 platform, closely related to the Lotus Elettra. The closest market competitors include the Porsche Macan and Genesis GV70 electrified. It also sets the stage as a bridge between the forthcoming Polestar 5 and 6.
Versions and Their Powertrains
The Polestar 4 comes in several versions. There is a long-range single motor version with rear-wheel drive, and a long-range dual motor with increased power from motors at both ends. As a performance-packed variant, it gets sportier suspension tuning and slightly larger Brembo brakes, adorned with Swedish gold-colored trims including seatbelts and valve caps. All versions share the same 94kWh battery and consistent visual presentation save for the wheels and side decals.
Feature Focus: No Rear Windscreen
Perhaps the most striking feature is the absence of a rear windscreen. Instead, Polestar opts for a high-definition camera feed integrated into a digital rearview mirror. While this setup can pan when signaling, providing a wider field of view, it’s not without its challenges. The time required for your eyes to adjust is longer compared to a traditional glass mirror, which may not be ideal for everyone.
A Glimpse of the Interior
Despite lacking a rear window, the interior is airy and spacious, thanks to a full-length glass roof that lets in plenty of light. Comfortable rear seating is amplified by the ability to recline the seats, enhancing passenger comfort. Upfront, a clean Polestar design ethos persists with the first landscape-oriented touch screen running Android Automotive, bringing Google features directly onboard.
Innovative Storage Solutions
The Polestar 4’s boot is practical with a sizable space extending to a false floor accommodating an additional 30 liters for essential items like charging cables. The frunk, albeit small, offers extra utility. An interesting interior lighting approach themed around the solar system adds a playful yet scientific touch to the ambiance.
Driving Dynamics: Mixed Feelings
While cruising, the Polestar 4 excels with a quiet and comfortable ride. However, its sporty aspirations aren’t completely convincing. On smoother roads, it performs well with commendable steering and suspension, but on tighter, twistier roads, it shows some limitations. The dual-motor setup is fast but lacks engaging feedback, requiring modifications via lag-prone touchscreen controls, something that could use refinement in future iterations.
Charging and Efficiency
The Polestar 4 promises excellent range and charging speeds. Offering 22kW of AC charging and up to 200kW rapid charging capability, it can go from 10 to 80% battery in around 30 minutes—ideal for long trips. Real-world efficiency stands at around 4 miles per kWh, competitive for its class.
Final Thoughts
The Polestar 4 showcases innovative design and technology choices, but it’s not without its quirks. The digital rearview mirror and no rear window setup present practical challenges, yet they reflect Polestar’s daring approach. For those appreciating a blend of advanced tech and a preference for refinement over outright sporty dynamics, the Polestar 4 offers an intriguing package. Notably, the single motor rear-wheel drive version may be the most appealing, both for its handling characteristics and value proposition.