If you drive a Polestar 2, get used to trying to explain to people what exactly it is.
Right about now, you may be wondering the same thing. Polestar is the all-electric spinoff of parent company Volvo. And the Polestar 2 hatchback is the company’s most affordable product to date.
Like other battery-powered models, the Polestar 2 is offered in both one- and two-motor versions that give it front- or all-wheel drive. Driving range is just average, though, at 270 miles and 249 miles, respectively.
When you’re in the driver’s seat, the Polestar 2 feels athletic, with surprisingly quick acceleration. There are three levels of regenerative braking, one of which makes it possible to drive in “one-pedal” mode, allowing you to come to a complete stop just by lifting off the accelerator. While convenient, it does take some getting used to.
Add an 11.2-inch vertically oriented touch screen and nice-to-have standard features, including Google maps, and you have a model that deserves to be better known.
STRENGTHS
- Good performance even with a single motor
- No On/Off button; sit down with the key in your pocket to drive.
WEAKNESSES
- The smallish back window limits visibility.
- The touch-screen interface is not intuitive.
BOTTOM LINE
- Polestar is an electric car brand that deserves better recognition.
PRICING
- Base Price: $45,900
- As Tested: $52,400
M.P.G. (city/highway)
- 107 (single motor)
- 89 (dual motor)
