Among the three initial models launched by Polestar in France, the Polestar 4 stands out as the most modern and arguably the most striking. It features the design of an elevated sedan and uniquely lacks a rear window. Here’s our first take on this electric vehicle that boasts over 600 km of range.
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Distinctive Design and Visual Identity
Polestar has managed to carve out a distinct visual identity, marked by meticulously crafted design elements that are bold yet restrained. Details such as the engraving of the motor’s power and battery size on the lower part of the front doors highlight the brand’s attention to detail. Initially under the creative direction of Maximilian Missoni, who recently moved to BMW and was succeeded by Philip Roemers from Audi, the brand has continued to build its aesthetic prowess.
Despite being a well-known name among electric car enthusiasts, Polestar was relatively unknown to the general French public until recently. The brand, part of China’s Geely group, had to navigate through a prolonged legal dispute involving DS and Citroën over logo issues before making its way to the French market.
Brand Evolution and Market Strategy
Polestar has slightly distanced itself from Volvo, in which it holds an 18% share, yet it relies on Volvo’s network for vehicle servicing. Originating as Volvo’s motorsport label, Polestar shares its nationality with Volvo and resides within the Geely constellation alongside brands like Lynk&Co and Zeekr, and also the Smart (a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz) which is now venturing into the premium segment.
The future will tell how these brands will coexist and thrive. Polestar itself must enhance its sales to sustain its operations, having produced only 45,000 cars in 2024, despite having a manufacturing presence in the USA.
The Polestar 4: A Blend of Categories
Naming its models in sequential order of their launch, Polestar keeps it simple with no correlation to the vehicle’s size. The Polestar 4 is a large, imposing sedan measuring 4.84 meters long, positioned between the Tesla Model 3 and Model S and competing with vehicles like the new Volvo ES90 and, to some extent, the Porsche Macan. This places the Polestar 4 somewhere between a sedan and a coupe SUV in its category, overlapping with both the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 within its own brand lineup.
Constructed on the SEA platform, unlike the US-made Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 vehicles are initially manufactured in the brand’s Chinese facility. However, towards the year’s end, production will also commence in Busan, Korea, in collaboration with Renault/Samsung, which will benefit the models when they reach Europe by avoiding the extra tax on Chinese electric vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Model | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.84 m x 2.14 m x 1.53 m |
| Power (HP) | 544 HP |
| 0 to 100km/h | 3.8 s |
| Autonomy Level | Semi-autonomous driving (level 2) |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h |
| Embedded OS | Android Automotive OS |
| Main Screen Size | 10.2 inches |
| Car Side Plug | Type 2 Combo (CCS) |
| Entry-Level Price | 64,800 euros |
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Design: A Unique Personality
The front of the Polestar 4 features a split “Thor’s hammer” headlight design that deviates from Volvo’s traditional style. The vehicle’s massive yet sleek silhouette puzzles those trying to categorize it—blending sedan and coupe SUV elements with a slightly raised ground clearance. At the rear, the absence of a rear window, replaced with a paneled section, allows for structural changes that increase rear headroom. Notably, the rear camera is fixed and self-cleaning, ensuring functionality without compromising on aesthetics.
Interior Space: Limousine Ambiance
Inside, the Polestar 4 offers a visually clean and luxurious environment, though some materials could be more reflective of its premium aspirations. Options for interior styles and colors include recycled materials and nappa leather from the renowned Scottish brand Bridge of Wear. Despite the lack of a rear window, the optional electrochromic panoramic glass roof floods the interior with light, and the back seats offer generous space with adjustable backrests for optimal comfort. A central screen controls various settings, including an impressive Harman Kardon sound system.
Embedded Technologies: Ahead of Its Time
Like Tesla, the Polestar 4 integrates most controls into the infotainment screen, which becomes intuitive over time. Based on Google’s Android Automotive, it features integrated Google Maps navigation and voice commands through Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay is available, and Android Auto will be added later. The vehicle also supports over-the-air updates and includes comprehensive driver assistance features developed with Mobileye.
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Sport
Our test model, the Long Range Dual Motor AWD, offers substantial power and torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. However, the driving experience leans more towards grand touring comfort rather than outright sportiness, with a focus on stable and reassuring handling rather than aggressive performance. Optional performance upgrades are available for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
Range, Battery, and Charging
The Polestar 4 features a 100 kWh battery, promising up to 590 km of range under the WLTP standard. While its 400-volt architecture supports fast charging, it lacks the ultra-fast charging capabilities seen in some competitors. Home charging options and integrated navigation with charging planning offer convenience and efficiency for longer trips.
Pricing, Availability, and Competition
Starting at 69,800 euros for the dual-motor version, the Polestar 4 is competitively priced, though some desirable features are only available through optional packages. The vehicle competes with several luxury models from established brands, offering a blend of performance, technology, and Scandinavian design that may well sway buyers looking for something different in the electric vehicle market.
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Maya Singh is a senior editor covering tablets and hybrid devices. Her work explores how these tools reshape digital productivity and learning. She also contributes to feature editorials on emerging tech.