Drive with us: Polestar 2 Review

Join us as we take a closer look at the Polestar 2, the all-electric saloon that's taking on the Tesla Model 3

Sure, the Polestar 2 has been around for a while now, and yes, there's a Polestar 5 coming soon.

But this car is still absolutely worth your attention.

Positioned as a rival to the Tesla Model 3, this Swedish stunner offers premium build quality, impressive range, and a distinctive design that sets it apart from the crowd. It's available at a similar price point to the Model 3, with its other rivals including the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Jaguar I-PACE, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

With its combination of performance, technology and Scandinavian style, the Polestar 2 is making a strong case for itself in an increasingly competitive segment.

But does it deliver enough to justify its premium positioning?

We took it for a spin to find out.

Or watch our video review over on YouTube:

What we drove:

• Model: Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor
• Power: Electric - 408hp/660Nm
• Colour: Thunder
• OTR: £46,800
• Range: Up to 300 miles (WLTP Comb)
• Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds

*Specifications correct at the time of publication

Power that'll pin you back in your seat

The Polestar 2 offered one of the most complete driving experiences we've ever had.

Thanks to that Dual Motor, the power – oh my, the power. You feel all that 400-plus horsepower the moment you put your foot down as the Polestar 2 slings you forward with its instant torque.

'Quick' doesn't do it justice.

Performance variants of the Model 3 will just marginally edge the Polestar 2 for out-and-out pace, but the Polestar will pip both Standard and Long Range versions of the Tesla.

As that speed and instant torque unfolds around you, the Polestar 2 remains completely unfazed in its handling, which is pin-sharp at all speeds.

The handling is so responsive and effortless, and the amount of grip it maintains through every corner is nothing short of exceptional.

Polestar have struck a perfect balance between the steering not being too light or overly weighty.

Compared to other EVs we've driven, the Polestar 2 had the best cabin noise, or should we say, lack of. Noticeably, the lack of tyre noise in the cabin – a common problem with EVs due to the lack of an engine – was impressive, even with our upgraded 20-inch wheels.

The entire experience driving the Polestar was effortless, incredibly fun and generally, just easy.

It's a car you won't tire of driving, nor will it ever fail to put a smile on your face.

One of the most noticeable aspects of its drive is Polestar's One-Pedal Drive system, which allows you to customise how much regenerative braking the car uses, from a choice of 'None', 'Low' or 'Standard'.

We recommend starting on Standard and seeing how you find it before adjusting if necessary. When you first experience it, it feels incredibly sharp – the slightest lift feels like it'll bring the vehicle to a halt on first use.

Turn off the 'Creep Mode' and it'll do just that.

It quickly becomes second nature once you get to grips with the force. It also has undeniable benefits: not only by giving you more charge with regenerative braking, but also using your brakes less, meaning less wear and tear.

Technology and interior that impresses

The 11.2-inch touchscreen felt worlds ahead of its time and, in our opinion, pips what's available in the Model 3.

Polestar boast that they created the first built-in Android system, and you instantly feel the benefits of this.

Compared to the Model 3, the Polestar's system is intuitive and easy to use, while everything is well laid out and easily accessible. There are fewer sub-menus, and although some may see this as lacking in detail, it does make it far easier to use, both while stationary and on the move.

The system uses over-the-air updates, so it's going to continuously improve, including Apple CarPlay which comes as standard.

The cabin is dominated by the large touchscreen. There's also an array of quality materials and everything feels very premium.

It feels very Volvo, in the best way.

Whether you're using the Polestar 2 to commute or as your family car, you'll enjoy exceptional comfort levels. The seats are made from award-winning vegan materials, and everyone at Carparison HQ fell in love.

The Polestar 2 comes packed with safety features and driver assistance systems as standard. These include:

• Collision Avoidance and Mitigation
• Run-off Road Mitigation
• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Post Impact Braking
• Front and rear parking assists
• Rear parking camera

The Polestar 2 also has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with a 93% score for adult occupants and 89% for a child occupant.

While five-star ratings are common nowadays, those percentages put it ahead of many rivals in its class.

Scandinavian design that turns heads

The design from Polestar is a real statement.

It's bold, muscular and a real head-turner. It can't help but command attention. It feels both unique, but also very familiar, thanks to its Volvo connections.

It takes elements from the design of the OG Polestar 1, Volvo XC40 and a touch of the Ford Mustang.

But built on the same platform as the XC40, the Polestar 2 nails an unusual sweet spot – the raised SUV driving position, sleek saloon profile, all with proper hatchback practicality. It's genuinely the best bits of three body styles rolled into one.

Perhaps the biggest statement is the rear of the vehicle, where the headlights run across the body in one narrow strip. While this is now a common sight on modern cars, it was a big move when it came out.

They also do a satisfying dance as you lock and unlock the vehicle.

Very reminiscent of Robocop – a real bonus if you're fans of ‘80s sci-fi films.

Space and practicality for real life

The Polestar 2 gives you proper boot space plus a clever front storage compartment – or "frunk" if you're being fancy.

Polestar have made smart use of the space where an engine would normally sit, creating a 35-litre compartment that's perfect for stashing your charging cables. Keeps them out of the way without eating into your actual boot.

At the rear, there's 405 litres of space, which also comes with the same flexible boot floor that we know and love from Volvo cars. There's a large and wide opening with just a small load lip, so overall, it's a very practical and useful space.

Headroom in both the front and the rear is competitive, as is the legroom.

You can carry three passengers comfortably in the back, but perhaps one of the biggest pitfalls of the Polestar 2 is the middle seat.

Because it's built on the Volvo XC40 platform, there’s a transmission tunnel, meaning your middle passenger is going to be sitting very unnaturally and probably playing footsie with those either side of them.

When it comes to storage, the door bins and glovebox are competitive but not class-leading.

There’s smart storage on either side of the centre console for your keys or phones – a nice touch that we’re sure the front passenger will enjoy too. You also have a tray for your phone along with two cupholders.

There isn't much space if you want to store something away from sight, which is perhaps where the Polestar 2 falls short of its rivals.

Electric range: How far can you go?

When you're personalising your Polestar 2 lease, there are two battery and motor options to choose from.

You can have Standard or Long Range editions, with select models coming with a Single Motor and a 64kWh battery. However, you can also have the improved Long Range edition, which comes with a Dual Motor and a 78kWh battery (like the one we're driving).

The full details available within each edition are:

• Standard Single Motor: 64kWh battery, 221hp, 276-mile range (WLTP Comb)
• Long Range Single Motor: 78kWh battery, 228hp, 337-mile range (WLTP Comb)
• Long Range Dual Motor: 78kWh battery, 402hp, 300-mile range (WLTP Comb)

The model we drove has a claimed range of just over 300 miles, though like most EVs, you'll see that drop in real-world conditions - particularly on motorways or in cold weather.

The good news is you can precondition the battery to warm it up before setting off, which helps maintain efficiency in those chillier months.

Competitive premium positioning

Starting from £39,900, the Polestar 2 positions itself firmly in the premium electric saloon market. Our test car came with the Long Range Dual Motor setup at £45,900.

But is it worth the money?

For those who value minimalist Scandi design, cutting-edge technology, and a driving experience that balances comfort with genuine excitement, the answer is likely yes.

The Polestar 2 feels special in a way that justifies its premium positioning.

That Android-powered infotainment system is genuinely class-leading, the award-winning vegan interior materials feel luxurious, and the driving dynamics make every journey enjoyable.

You're not just paying for an electric car – you're getting Swedish refinement with that comforting Volvo safety and quality guarantee.

Unlike some rivals, Polestar don't nickel-and-dime you with trim levels either.

Every Polestar 2 comes generously equipped as standard, including:

• Heated front seats
• LED headlights with those distinctive rear light strips
• 11.2-inch touchscreen with Google built-in
• Comprehensive safety features
• Handsfree power-operated tailgate

Optional Plus, Pilot and Performance packs are available if you want to add extras like a premium Harman Kardon sound system or advanced driver assistance.

*Standard equipment correct at the time of publication

Where it shines (and where it doesn't)

Like any car, the Polestar 2 has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's what stood out during our time with it:

What makes the Polestar 2 stand out?

The headline achievement here is that Android-powered infotainment system – it's genuinely class-leading and easier to use than Tesla's. Pair that with exceptional performance and Swedish refinement, and you've got a properly premium package.

• Exceptional 400hp performance that rivals the Tesla Model 3
• Pin-sharp handling with impressive grip through corners
• Android-powered infotainment that's genuinely class-leading
• Award-winning vegan interior materials with exceptional comfort
• Distinctive Scandinavian design with that iconic rear light strip
• Whisper-quiet cabin even at speed
• Customisable one-pedal driving system
• Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating with strong category scores
• Generous standard equipment

Where does it fall short?

The Polestar 2 shows its age in a few areas, particularly with range.

What was impressive at launch has been overtaken by newer rivals, and a few practicality niggles hold it back from perfection.

• Middle rear seat is cramped due to large transmission tunnel from XC40 platform
• Range no longer competitive - 300 miles was impressive at launch but has been surpassed by newer rivals
• Door bins and glovebox storage not class-leading
• Limited hidden storage space compared to rivals

What’s the verdict?

The Polestar 2 delivers on its promise of Swedish refinement with proper performance to back it up.

While it feels very new and futuristic, there's a comforting sense of familiarity from its Volvo connections, so you know quality is guaranteed.

Its design will turn heads on the street, its performance is exceptional, and with that intuitive Android system and award-winning interior, it's hard to find fault.

Does the Polestar 2 successfully challenge the Tesla Model 3? Absolutely.

It offers a compelling alternative with Swedish refinement that makes every journey enjoyable.

Top 5 reasons to consider the Polestar 2:

• Exceptional 400hp performance that rivals the Model 3
• Intuitive Android-powered infotainment that's worlds ahead of most EVs
• Award-winning vegan interior materials with exceptional comfort
• Distinctive Scandinavian design with that iconic rear light strip
• Customisable one-pedal driving system that saves money on brake wear

Would we recommend leasing a Polestar 2?

Without a doubt – especially if you're looking for a premium electric saloon that combines performance, practicality and distinctive design.