The Polestar 4 Arrives: A Bold Statement on American Roads in 2025
The year 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the American electric vehicle landscape, and among the fr
esh contenders making their anticipated debut is the Polestar 4, an electric performance SUV that dares to redefine expectations. Having closely tracked the evolution of electric mobility for the better part of a decade, I’ve witnessed countless attempts to blend raw power with sustainable automotive design and practical utility. The Polestar 4, in its uncompromising execution, truly stands out as a testament to what’s possible when a brand commits fully to innovation, even if it means challenging conventional wisdom—most notably, by eliminating the rear window.
This isn’t just another electric crossover entering an increasingly crowded segment; it’s a meticulously engineered machine that bridges the gap between the compact Polestar 2 sedan with its crossover aspirations and the larger, more traditional Polestar 3 SUV. Positioned squarely against premium competitors like the Porsche Macan EV, the Polestar 4 arrives in the USA and Canada with a starting MSRP around $56,400 (single motor), quickly climbing for the dual-motor, AWD variant. But what exactly does this investment deliver, and does its audacious design truly enhance the ownership experience? Let’s dive deep into the intricacies of Polestar’s latest, and perhaps most intriguing, offering.
A Visionary Design: The Disappearing Rear Window and its Digital Solution
The most immediate and undeniable talking point surrounding the Polestar 4 is its radical design choice: the complete absence of a traditional rear window. This isn’t a mere stylistic flourish; it’s a fundamental reimagining of the vehicle’s rear architecture. For years, coupe-style SUVs have struggled to balance sleek aerodynamics with practical considerations like rear passenger headroom and driver visibility. Polestar’s Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, and his engineering team tackled this head-on, explaining that typical designs force a compromise between interior space, aerodynamic efficiency, and rear visibility. Their refusal to accept this trade-off led to the innovative solution we see today.
Instead of a glass pane, the panoramic glass roof extends much further back, creating an expansive, open feel for rear occupants. Crucially, the driver’s rearward view is entirely handled by a high-definition, roof-mounted camera. This camera feeds a continuous, crystal-clear image to the rearview mirror, which is now a digital display. From a pure engineering standpoint, it’s brilliant. My initial skepticism, shared by many, quickly dissolved during test drives in the diverse conditions around Austin, Texas. The digital mirror provides an unhindered, wide-angle view, free from obstructions like rear headrests, cargo, or even fellow passengers.
Of course, the practicalities are always the first concern for a seasoned driver. What about snow, ice, or heavy rain obstructing the camera lens? Polestar reps confidently assert that the camera’s strategic placement and integrated heating elements are designed to mitigate such issues, ensuring consistent visibility in varied climates, a critical consideration for the diverse American landscape. This commitment to functionality over mere aesthetics demonstrates Polestar’s serious intent to deliver a genuinely advanced user experience. This design choice also pays dividends in interior space, allowing for more generous rear headroom and the potential for a larger, more versatile cargo area. It’s a bold move that not only sets the Polestar 4 apart visually but also pushes the boundaries of functional automotive design.
Electrifying Performance: Two Flavors of Power
Underpinning the Polestar 4’s striking exterior is a robust electric powertrain, offered in two distinct configurations to cater to varying performance demands and budget considerations. Both variants draw power from a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery, ensuring competitive range and impressive charging speeds.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant is arguably the more surprising package. Equipped with a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, it delivers a healthy 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While these figures might not scream “supercar,” in the real world of EV motoring, the instant torque delivery translates to remarkably sprightly acceleration. It pushes from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 6.9 seconds and boasts an estimated range of 310 miles on a single charge – a truly compelling figure for daily usability and longer journeys alike. For the discerning driver who prioritizes range and a slightly lower entry price point, the RWD Polestar 4, starting around $57,800, offers exceptional value without sacrificing the characteristic EV “oomph.”
Then there’s the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, which truly unleashes the Polestar 4’s performance potential. With a combined output of 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, this variant transforms the SUV into a legitimate performance machine. The 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched in a blistering 3.7 seconds, a figure that puts it squarely in the territory of many high-performance sports cars, not just electric SUVs. While its estimated range is slightly less at 280 miles, the trade-off for such exhilarating acceleration and enhanced traction is often worthwhile for performance enthusiasts. Starting at approximately $64,300, the dual-motor variant positions itself as a luxury electric SUV for those who demand uncompromising power and dynamic capability.
Both models share a top speed of 124 mph, a sensible electronically limited figure given their intended use. And importantly for the evolving US charging infrastructure, both support fast-charging at up to 200 kilowatts, allowing for rapid replenishment on the road. The inclusion of NACS ports (North American Charging Standard) as part of the package is a forward-thinking move, ensuring seamless compatibility with a rapidly expanding network of chargers, a critical factor for boosting consumer confidence in electric vehicle ownership. This strategic adoption of NACS is a high-impact decision that will undoubtedly resonate with American buyers concerned about range anxiety and charging convenience.
An Interior that Coddles and Connects
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re immediately enveloped in a cabin that exemplifies modern Scandinavian luxury and intelligent design. This isn’t about ostentation; it’s about thoughtful ergonomics, premium materials, and seamless integration of cutting-edge technology. The focus is on creating a driver-centric environment that is both comfortable and intuitive.
Sustainable Luxury: Polestar continues its commitment to sustainability with available interior options. While luxurious Bridge of Weir leather seats with heating and massage functions provide a traditional premium feel, the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 3D-knitted PET plastic waste, offers an eco-conscious alternative without sacrificing comfort or aesthetic appeal. This blend of traditional luxury and future-forward sustainability is a hallmark of the Polestar brand.
Advanced Infotainment and Driver Display: The cabin is dominated by a crisp, landscape-oriented 15.4-inch central touchscreen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS. This system handles everything from navigation and media to climate control and vehicle settings. The integration of Google Maps with live lane guidance is a significant upgrade, offering enhanced visual cues for turns, optimal lane suggestions, and detailed displays of city crosswalks and road signs. While the system is generally intuitive, like many modern vehicles, some functions—such as vent control and, surprisingly, the glovebox release—are relegated to the screen. As an industry expert, I often champion physical buttons for critical controls for safety and tactile feedback, so this remains an area for user adaptation. Complementing the central screen is a clear 10.2-inch driver’s instrument panel, presenting essential driving information without clutter.
Rear Seat Comfort and Practicality: The Polestar 4 truly shines in its rear passenger experience. Thanks to the absence of the rear window, the roofline offers generous headroom, and the available Plus pack allows for reclining and heated rear seats, a premium touch rarely found in this segment. Rear passengers also benefit from a dedicated small screen to control climate and infotainment, enhancing comfort and personal space.
The cargo area is another strong suit. A powered tailgate provides easy access to a wide and cavernous luggage space, offering 18.6 cubic feet of capacity with the rear seats up. Under-floor storage adds further versatility, perfect for stowing charging cables or smaller items. And yes, in true EV fashion, there’s a practical frunk (front trunk) for added convenience. The overall interior package effectively balances innovative technology, sustainable materials, and practical utility, making it a delightful place for both driver and passengers on long journeys or daily commutes.
Dynamic Prowess: Handling and Safety on the Road
The Polestar 4 isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s engineered to be a genuinely engaging driver’s car. Despite its curb weight of approximately 5,192 pounds (for the dual-motor), the SUV exhibits remarkable agility and composure. During my time in the Texas hill country, the dual-motor variant with its active dampers demonstrated exceptional dynamic road manners. It dove into corners with an eagerness that belied its size, maintaining impressive body control and inspiring confidence. The four-piston Brembo brakes, known for their consistent and powerful stopping performance, are a welcome inclusion, providing excellent modulation and reassuring fade resistance.
The driving experience is further elevated by the vehicle’s inherent quietness. The electric powertrain naturally eliminates engine noise, and Polestar has done an excellent job of insulating the cabin from road and wind noise, creating a serene environment. This quiet cabin, combined with the premium 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo (part of the premium pack), transforms the Polestar 4 into a mobile concert hall. The only notable omission, following a trend in modern vehicles, is AM radio.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): As expected from a premium vehicle in 2025, the Polestar 4 bristles with a comprehensive suite of ADAS features. It boasts 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, forming a robust perception system that underpins advanced safety functions. This array of sensors contributes to a high level of situational awareness, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue, a crucial aspect for modern electric vehicles aiming for mass adoption. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking are all standard or available, reflecting Polestar’s commitment to safety innovation.
Pricing and Market Position: A Premium Proposition
The Polestar 4 enters the US market at a premium price point, with the test dual-motor reaching around $71,600. While this might seem steep, it’s essential to contextualize it within the luxury EV segment. Polestar has strategically positioned the 4 as a high-performance, design-forward alternative to established players. The pricing reflects the advanced technology, robust performance, premium materials, and sophisticated engineering that goes into every aspect of the vehicle.
For the driver, the experience is truly where the Polestar 4 makes its strongest case. It’s a vehicle that resonates most deeply from behind the wheel. The seamless power delivery, sharp handling, and refined cabin all contribute to a compelling argument for its value. While some might argue that Polestar’s styling could be more aggressively differentiated to stand out in a crowded market, the core driving dynamics and innovative features are what will ultimately seal the deal for many discerning buyers. As Christian Samson, who heads Polestar’s product identity team, notes, the goal with the 4 was to “shrink the car, to make it feel lighter,” and achieve a 300-mile range. Mission accomplished on both fronts, making it an incredibly satisfying vehicle to operate.
Global Strategy and the Expanding Polestar Ecosystem
Polestar’s commitment to a purely battery-electric future remains unwavering, a strategic decision that differentiates it from brands still dabbling in plug-in hybrids. The brand has expanded its presence to 28 markets globally, reporting consistent sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025, a testament to its compelling lineup and strategic positioning.
The manufacturing strategy for the Polestar 4 is also noteworthy. Initially built at a facility in Hangzhou Bay, China, production expanded to Busan, South Korea, starting this year. This move is largely tariff-related; following a recent trade agreement, South Korea’s tariff is a more favorable 15% for vehicles imported into the US, a dynamic subject to change but crucial for market competitiveness in the current global economic climate.
Looking ahead, the Polestar 4 is just one piece of an ambitious puzzle:
Polestar 5: Scheduled for a late 2025 launch in Europe, this speedy four-door electric GT sedan is modeled after the stunning Precept concept car, promising groundbreaking performance and luxury.
Polestar 6: A two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” the 6 embodies pure electric performance and emotional design, though its release date remains under wraps.
Polestar 7: A two-row SUV due in 2028, the 7 is slated to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, designed to broaden the brand’s appeal further. Significantly, the 7 will be built in Europe, specifically at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, with an eye on future tariff considerations.
This robust product roadmap underscores Polestar’s long-term vision and its determination to establish itself as a leader in the premium electric vehicle segment.
The Verdict: A Bold Step Forward for Electric Mobility
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new electric SUV; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that automotive design can evolve in unexpected ways, that performance and practicality can coexist, and that a premium electric experience is about more than just a badge. Its bold rear window-less design is a conversation starter, but its profound driving dynamics, sophisticated technology, and luxurious, sustainable interior are what will win over discerning buyers in the US market. In 2025, as the electric vehicle revolution continues to accelerate, the Polestar 4 stands as a testament to intelligent design, uncompromising performance, and a clear vision for the future of mobility. It doesn’t just embrace the future; it helps define it.
Ready to experience the future of electric driving? Discover the innovation, performance, and groundbreaking design of the Polestar 4 for yourself. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive today to truly understand what sets this visionary electric SUV apart.
