Polestar 4: A 2025 Deep Dive into the Electric SUV Redefining Vision and Performance
The year is 2025, and the electric vehicle landscape has matured, becoming a vi
brant, fiercely competitive arena. For those of us who’ve navigated this terrain for over a decade, witnessing the shift from nascent technology to mainstream marvel, few vehicles spark as much intriguing conversation as the new Polestar 4. Having tracked the brand since its inception as a standalone electric performance marque, I can confidently say the Polestar 4 isn’t just another entrant; it’s a bold statement, bridging the gap between audacious design and compelling functionality within the burgeoning luxury electric SUV segment. This isn’t just an EV; it’s a conversation starter, a paradigm shifter, and for many, a glimpse into the future of automotive design and sustainable luxury.
Polestar has consistently carved out its niche by offering a Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic fused with electrifying performance. The Polestar 2 established its presence, and the Polestar 3 aimed squarely at the larger premium SUV market. Now, the Polestar 4 slots perfectly in between, positioning itself as a D-segment performance SUV—think Porsche Macan EV territory—but with a distinctly Polestar twist. Its arrival in the US and Canadian markets in early 2025 wasn’t just anticipated; it was eagerly awaited, promising a fresh perspective on what an electric crossover coupe can be.
Unpacking the Performance: Power, Precision, and Electrifying Dynamics
At the heart of any compelling electric vehicle lies its powertrain, and the Polestar 4 offers a choice that caters to varied driving preferences without compromise. Both single-motor (rear-wheel drive) and dual-motor (all-wheel drive) configurations are powered by a robust 100-kilowatt-hour battery, capable of rapid DC charging at up to 200 kilowatts, ensuring that range anxiety becomes a relic of the past for most users. Crucially for the North American market, Polestar has embraced the NACS charging standard, future-proofing connectivity at the rapidly expanding supercharging networks across the continent.
Let’s delve into the specifics. The single-motor variant is a rear-wheel-drive powerhouse, featuring a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor. It delivers a substantial 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While its 0-62 mph time of 6.9 seconds might not set new land speed records, it offers more than enough alacrity for daily driving and spirited excursions. What truly stands out with the single-motor model is its impressive EPA-estimated range of 310 miles. This extended range, coupled with a slightly lower electric vehicle price point (starting around $57,800), makes it a highly attractive option for the discerning driver prioritizing efficiency and accessible performance.
For those with an insatiable appetite for raw power, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration is the ultimate expression of the Polestar 4’s high-performance EV credentials. With a colossal 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, this variant lunges from 0 to 62 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds. These are supercar-rivalling numbers, placing the Polestar 4 firmly among the elite of performance electric SUVs. Despite the significant power bump, the dual-motor still delivers a respectable 280 miles of range, a testament to Polestar’s advanced battery management. Starting around $64,300, the dual-motor model represents a compelling blend of thrilling acceleration and sophisticated traction, making it a standout in the premium EV segment. Both versions share a top speed of 124 mph, underscoring their shared commitment to dynamic capability.
Having experienced both iterations, I can attest that while the numbers suggest a dramatic difference, both powertrains deliver that instantaneous, torque-rich acceleration inherent to electric vehicles, making them feel incredibly responsive and engaging. The single motor surprises with its vigor, while the dual motor simply recalibrates your perception of acceleration. This strategic differentiation allows Polestar to capture a wider audience, from efficiency-minded commuters to adrenaline-seeking enthusiasts, cementing the Polestar 4’s status as a versatile and potent contender in the luxury electric SUV market.
The Visionary Design: No Rear Window, No Problem?
Perhaps the most radical and widely discussed aspect of the Polestar 4 is its controversial decision to completely omit a traditional rear window. Instead, the panoramic glass roof extends all the way down, creating an unbroken, sleek roofline. This bold design choice, first glimpsed on the Polestar 5 concept, initially raised eyebrows and questions about rearward visibility. However, Polestar’s Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, and his engineering team have meticulously engineered a solution that, in practice, is nothing short of revolutionary: a high-definition, roof-mounted, rear-facing camera feeds a live, crystal-clear image to the rearview mirror.
As an expert who’s witnessed countless automotive innovations, I approached this feature with a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, traditionalists value direct line of sight. But the system genuinely works, and it works exceptionally well. The panoramic camera offers a wider field of view than a conventional mirror, often eliminating blind spots. The concerns about snow, ice, or dirt obstructing the view, particularly for drivers in colder climates, have been addressed by Polestar engineers, who assure us the camera’s placement and heating elements mitigate these issues effectively.
Missoni explained the philosophy behind this daring move: to balance interior roominess, aerodynamic efficiency, and rear visibility in a coupe-style roof. “Normally, one of those has to give,” he noted, emphasizing Polestar’s refusal to compromise. The result is a design that is not only aerodynamically superior but also allows for an expansive, airy cabin, particularly for rear passengers. This kind of future of automotive design is exactly what sets Polestar apart, pushing boundaries rather than adhering to conventions. It’s a prime example of EV technology innovations that redefine the driving experience.
Beyond this striking feature, the Polestar 4’s overall aesthetic is a masterclass in modern Scandinavian design. Its proportions are athletic, its lines are clean, and the split headlight signature adds a unique and recognizable face. While some argue Polestar’s styling could be more overtly expressive to stand out in an increasingly crowded segment, its subtle sophistication and understated aggression appeal to a mature, design-conscious audience. The coupe-like silhouette, combined with the practicality of an SUV, makes it a highly desirable option for those seeking a harmonious blend of form and function.
An Inner Sanctuary: Craftsmanship, Comfort, and Connected Tech
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of refined luxury and thoughtful sustainability. This is where Polestar’s commitment to premium materials and user-centric design truly shines. Available options include sumptuous Bridge of Weir leather seats, offering both heating and massage functions—a welcome indulgence on longer journeys. For the environmentally conscious, Polestar offers an innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste and 3D-knitted to size. This isn’t just a sustainable choice; it’s a testament to how recycled materials can achieve a high-end aesthetic and feel, setting a new benchmark for sustainable automotive brands.
The interior practicality is equally impressive. Rear seats not only offer ample comfort but also recline—a direct benefit of the rear window-free design, which allows for greater headroom and a more expansive feel. Rear passengers are treated to their own small screen, granting control over climate and infotainment settings, underscoring Polestar’s focus on holistic passenger comfort.
The cockpit revolves around a stunning 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS. This intuitive interface seamlessly integrates Google Maps with a groundbreaking “live lane guidance” feature (expected to be rolled out across the test fleet soon). This advanced navigation system actively advises drivers on optimal lane positioning, provides enhanced visual cues for upcoming turns, and even displays detailed urban elements like crosswalks and road signs. It’s a leap forward in advanced driver-assistance systems EV capabilities, making navigation smoother and more intuitive than ever before. While the screen expertly handles infotainment and navigation, it also consolidates controls for functions like climate vents and, surprisingly, the glovebox door. While visually clean, this digital-first approach for some basic functions might require a slight adjustment for drivers accustomed to physical buttons.
Complementing the central screen is a crisp 10.2-inch driver’s instrument panel, offering clear, concise information at a glance. Practicality extends to the generous luggage area, which boasts 18.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the seats up, easily accessible via a powered tailgate. An additional frunk provides convenient storage for charging cables or smaller items, a hallmark of well-engineered electric vehicle packaging. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, an acoustically optimized environment that allows the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo to truly shine, transforming every drive into a concert-hall experience (though, following a recent trend, AM radio is notably absent).
The Drive: A Symphony of Control and Composure
From the driver’s seat, the Polestar 4 truly comes alive. Having had the opportunity to put it through its paces across varied terrain, I can confidently assert that Polestar has delivered on its promise of dynamic excellence. Despite its curb weight exceeding 5,000 pounds (5,192 lbs for the dual-motor), the vehicle handles with an agility that belies its size. This is largely thanks to active dampers, which continuously adjust to road conditions, ensuring a composed ride and confident handling through corners. The four-piston Brembo brakes provide immense stopping power, inspiring confidence even during spirited driving.
Christian Samson, who leads the Polestar product identity team, highlighted the team’s goal to “shrink the car, to make it feel lighter” and achieve a 300-mile range. Driving the Polestar 4 confirms mission accomplished on both fronts. The steering is precise, offering good feedback, and the chassis feels inherently balanced. It’s a vehicle that invites engagement without punishing the driver, striking an impressive balance between sportiness and long-distance comfort.
Beyond the engaging dynamics, the Polestar 4 is a technological fortress, bristling with 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors that feed its comprehensive suite of ADAS features. These systems work harmoniously to enhance safety, situational awareness, and convenience, positioning the Polestar 4 among the leaders in next-generation electric cars for active and passive safety. This integrated approach to EV technology underscores Polestar’s commitment to not just performance, but also to intelligent, secure mobility.
Pricing and Market Position in the 2025 Landscape
Polestar’s pricing strategy has always been positioned at the premium end of the spectrum, and the Polestar 4 continues this trend. With a starting MSRP of around $57,800 for the single-motor and $64,300 for the dual-motor, a fully optioned dual-motor model can easily push past $71,600. In the rapidly evolving 2025 electric vehicle market, where competition is stiff from established luxury marques and aggressive newcomers, Polestar faces the perennial challenge of justifying its price point.
However, a closer look reveals the value proposition. The Polestar 4 offers a unique combination of cutting-edge design, exhilarating performance, sustainable luxury materials, and advanced technology that few rivals can match directly. When comparing it to similarly equipped premium competitors like the Porsche Macan EV or even higher trims of the Genesis GV60 or BMW iX, the Polestar 4’s pricing becomes more competitive. Furthermore, potential federal and state electric vehicle tax credits and incentives available in the US for 2025 could further sweeten the deal for eligible buyers, significantly impacting the effective purchase price.
Polestar isn’t aiming for mass market dominance; it’s cultivating a brand for discerning buyers who appreciate meticulous engineering, innovative design, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Its vehicles are crafted for those who see an EV not just as transportation, but as a statement of values and a commitment to a progressive future. The sales will undoubtedly be driven by those who experience the Polestar 4 firsthand – its strengths are most evident from behind the wheel.
Global Footprint and the Future of Polestar
The Polestar 4’s production story is as global as the brand itself. Initially manufactured in Hangzhou Bay, China, production expanded to Busan, South Korea, in 2025. This strategic decision was largely tariff-related, capitalizing on South Korea’s more favorable 15% tariff rate, a dynamic influenced by ongoing international trade agreements. This adaptability in manufacturing highlights Polestar’s responsiveness to global economic conditions and its dedication to optimizing its supply chain for the US and other markets.
Looking beyond the 4, Polestar’s future pipeline is robust and exciting, a clear indication of a brand with ambitious plans. The Polestar 5, a high-performance four-door electric GT sedan, is modeled after the stunning Precept concept car and is slated for a European launch later in 2025, promising a direct challenge to the likes of the Porsche Taycan. The Polestar 6, a breathtaking two-seat electric roadster, embodies the “sports car for the era of electrification,” though its release date remains under wraps. Further down the line, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV, is due in 2028, designed to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, and notably, will be built in Europe at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, with an eye on future tariff landscapes.
Polestar’s unwavering commitment to being a battery-electric-only brand remains a cornerstone of its identity. Despite exploring plug-in hybrids, the company has consistently doubled down on its pure EV philosophy, a bold stance in a market still debating transitional technologies. With sales growing in 28 markets and through the first three quarters of 2025, Polestar is cementing its position as a significant player in the evolving global automotive landscape.
Final Verdict and Your Next Chapter
The 2025 Polestar 4 is more than just an electric SUV; it’s a testament to audacious design, meticulous engineering, and a forward-thinking vision for personal mobility. It challenges conventions with its rear-window-free design, it excites with its potent performance, and it coddles with its luxurious, sustainable interior. While its premium pricing might place it out of reach for some, for those seeking a distinctive, high-performance, and technologically advanced luxury EV that stands apart from the crowd, the Polestar 4 offers an undeniably compelling package. It’s a vehicle designed not just for the roads of today, but for the sensibilities of tomorrow.
Are you ready to redefine your driving experience and embrace the future of electric performance? We invite you to explore the Polestar 4 firsthand and discover why this visionary electric SUV is poised to make a significant impact on your daily commute and weekend adventures. Experience the power, the precision, and the unique perspective it brings to the world of luxury EVs.
