Polestar 4: A 2025 Vision of Electric Performance, Design, and The Disappearing Rear Window
For over a decade, I’ve had my hands on everything from hypercars to hyd
rogen fuel cell prototypes, tracking the seismic shifts in the automotive landscape. And let me tell you, the electric revolution isn’t just about powertrains anymore; it’s fundamentally reshaping design, user experience, and our very definition of what a car can be. In this dynamic 2025 market, where innovation is currency and sustainability isn’t a buzzword but a mandate, Polestar continues to carve out a compelling niche. Their latest offering, the Polestar 4, arriving on US roads, isn’t just another electric SUV. It’s a statement, a bold reinterpretation of form and function, spearheaded by a design choice that’s bound to spark conversation: the absence of a traditional rear window.
This isn’t merely a stylistic flourish; it’s a calculated move that unlocks new possibilities in cabin spaciousness, aerodynamic efficiency, and structural integrity, all while delivering a driving experience that’s unmistakably Polestar. After spending considerable time with it in various configurations, from the single-motor prowess to the dual-motor dynamism, I can confidently say the Polestar 4 is poised to significantly impact the premium electric SUV segment, challenging established players and offering a distinct alternative for discerning American buyers.
Redefining Form: The Design Language of 2025 and Beyond
Polestar has consistently championed a minimalist, clean aesthetic, and the Polestar 4 takes this philosophy to its logical, and perhaps most provocative, conclusion. The moment you see it, the car asserts a distinctive presence. Positioned squarely between the Polestar 2 sedan and the larger Polestar 3 SUV in terms of size and stature, it adopts a sleek, coupe-like silhouette that immediately sets it apart. The split headlights, a signature Polestar motif, provide an aggressive yet sophisticated face, while the flush door handles and aerodynamic wheels whisper efficiency.
But it’s the rear, or rather, the lack of a conventional rear, that truly defines its visual identity. In an industry where design often prioritizes tradition, Polestar has dared to completely omit the rear window, extending the panoramic glass roof seamlessly to the rear decklid. This wasn’t an arbitrary decision, as Polestar’s Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, emphasized. It’s an elegant solution to a complex problem: how to balance the desire for a sleek, aerodynamically efficient coupe profile with the demand for spacious rear passenger headroom and an uncompromised driver’s view. Historically, one of these elements had to be sacrificed. Polestar’s engineering and design teams refused that compromise, opting for a digital rearview mirror fed by a high-definition, roof-mounted rear camera.
My initial skepticism, shared by many, quickly dissipated in practice. The camera system provides a wider, clearer, and often less obstructed view than a conventional mirror, especially in adverse weather conditions or when the cabin is full. Concerns about ice or snow buildup are addressed by robust heating elements and hydrophobic coatings, ensuring year-round functionality. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a forward-thinking design solution that leverages advanced camera technology to enhance safety and comfort, showcasing how Polestar is actively shaping the future of automotive design in the competitive luxury electric SUV market of 2025. It also significantly contributes to the vehicle’s impressive drag coefficient, a critical factor for extending range in today’s performance EVs.
Electrifying Performance: Power, Precision, and Poise
Beneath that striking exterior lies a platform engineered for exhilarating performance. The Polestar 4 arrives in the US with both single-motor (RWD) and dual-motor (AWD) configurations, offering distinct yet equally compelling driving experiences.
The single-motor variant is powered by a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, delivering a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While the dual-motor might grab headlines for its outright acceleration, the single-motor Polestar 4 is arguably the more surprising package. It sheds weight, enhances efficiency, and offers an impressive estimated range of 310 miles – a critical benchmark for today’s discerning EV buyers seeking a long-range electric vehicle. Starting at a more accessible $57,800, it presents a strong value proposition for those prioritizing efficiency and Polestar’s signature driving dynamics without needing every last horsepower. The instant torque delivery, characteristic of all EVs, ensures lively acceleration (0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds) and effortless highway cruising, making it an ideal daily driver in diverse American driving conditions.
For the true performance enthusiasts, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive Polestar 4 is a revelation. With a staggering 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, it rockets from 0-62 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. This isn’t just fast; it’s supercar-baiting quick, positioning it firmly among the high-performance EV elite. Despite the significant power differential on paper, both models exhibit Polestar’s refined approach to power delivery. The dual-motor version never feels overwhelming or unmanageable; instead, it provides a confidence-inspiring surge that makes overtakes effortless and on-ramps a joy. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction and stability, making it perfectly suited for challenging weather or spirited driving on winding roads. Both configurations share a 124 mph top speed, underscoring their capabilities.
Both Polestar 4 models are equipped with a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery, supporting fast-charging capabilities up to 200 kilowatts. In the 2025 EV ecosystem, rapid charging is non-negotiable, and the Polestar 4’s ability to replenish its battery quickly on DC fast chargers significantly mitigates any lingering range anxiety. Crucially, Polestar has embraced the industry-standard NACS (North American Charging Standard) ports, a forward-thinking decision that future-proofs the vehicle and grants owners access to the rapidly expanding Tesla Supercharger network, alongside other NACS-compatible chargers across the US. This widespread charging access is a major advantage for prospective buyers, streamlining long-distance travel and daily commutes.
A Sanctuary of Innovation: Interior, Technology, and Sustainability
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re enveloped in an environment that seamlessly blends Scandinavian minimalism with cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to sustainability. The cabin is an airy, inviting space, a direct benefit of that expansive panoramic glass roof that stretches almost uninterrupted from front to rear.
The seating, whether you opt for the available Bridge of Weir leather with its luxurious heat and massage functions or the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, speaks volumes about Polestar’s dedication to sustainable luxury. The Tailored Knit, crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste using 3D knitting technology, is not just environmentally friendly; it’s remarkably comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, setting a new standard for sustainable automotive materials in 2025. Rear passengers will appreciate the available Plus pack, which adds heated, reclining rear seats and a dedicated small screen to control climate and infotainment settings – a thoughtful touch that enhances comfort on longer journeys.
At the heart of the digital experience is a crisp, 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen dominating the center stack. This system runs on Google’s Android Automotive OS, offering a familiar and intuitive user interface that integrates seamlessly with Google services. As an expert in the field, I can attest to the superiority of native Android Automotive compared to simple Android Auto mirroring. It provides a truly embedded experience, allowing for over-the-air updates, deep integration with vehicle functions, and access to a vast ecosystem of apps. For 2025, the Polestar 4 introduces live lane guidance within Google Maps, a feature that provides enhanced visual cues for turns, optimized lane recommendations for your route, and displays critical road information like crosswalks and signs – an invaluable aid in complex urban environments.
While the touchscreen handles a multitude of functions, including climate controls and, surprisingly, the glovebox release, I do believe some physical buttons for critical operations would enhance ergonomics for some users. However, the system’s responsiveness and clarity are undeniable. Ahead of the driver, a clear 10.2-inch digital instrument panel provides all essential driving information at a glance, maintaining Polestar’s driver-centric approach. And for a touch of whimsy and personality, the Polestar 4 offers an amusing screensaver featuring a robot dog, proclaiming “my owner will be back soon” – a small detail that adds charm to its high-tech persona.
The cabin quietness is exceptional, a testament to Polestar’s meticulous engineering. This serene atmosphere is perfect for enjoying the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, part of the premium pack. The sound quality is immersive and rich, transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels. It’s worth noting the absence of AM radio, a trend observed across many new EVs, reflecting evolving media consumption habits. Storage is ample, with a wide, cavernous luggage area offering 18.6 cubic feet of capacity with the seats up, complemented by convenient under-floor storage and a useful frunk (front trunk) for charging cables or smaller items.
Dynamic Driving and Uncompromising Safety
My time driving the Polestar 4 in the winding Texas hill country reaffirmed Polestar’s commitment to dynamic driving. Despite its curb weight of around 5,192 pounds, the Polestar 4 feels remarkably agile and composed. The active dampers, a key component of its sophisticated chassis, allow the vehicle to hug corners with surprising tenacity, belying its SUV stature. The four-piston Brembo brakes, standard on higher trims, provide immense stopping power and confident modulation, instilling a sense of security even during spirited driving. This is a very well-engineered vehicle, delivering a refined yet engaging driving experience that positions it as a true premium EV performance contender.
Safety, as expected from a brand with Volvo lineage, is paramount. The Polestar 4 is bristling with an advanced suite of ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) features. With 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors constantly monitoring the surroundings, the vehicle provides comprehensive situational awareness and active safety interventions. This extensive sensor array enables features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, all working in concert to enhance driver confidence and occupant protection. In the rapidly advancing world of ADAS advancements EV, Polestar is keeping pace, delivering a robust safety net for its drivers and passengers.
Navigating the 2025 EV Market: Pricing and Value Proposition
The Polestar 4 enters a fiercely competitive segment, where brand loyalty is tested by innovation and value. With a starting price of $57,800 for the single-motor and $64,300 for the dual-motor AWD, and a fully loaded dual-motor reaching around $71,600, the Polestar 4 certainly sits in the premium bracket. However, when you consider its direct competitors – vehicles like the Porsche Macan EV, BMW iX, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Genesis GV60/GV70 EV – its pricing becomes highly competitive.
For a decade, I’ve watched consumers wrestle with the perceived “heft” of EV price tags. But in 2025, the conversation has shifted. Buyers are more aware of the total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits, including lower fuel and maintenance costs, and potential federal tax credits. While the Polestar 4, being built in China and South Korea, might not currently qualify for the full federal EV tax credit under the strictures of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), state and local incentives, along with the sheer quality of the product, still make it a compelling option. The value lies not just in the hardware, but in the entire package: the innovative design, the cutting-edge technology, the exhilarating performance, and Polestar’s commitment to sustainability. This vehicle truly shines from the driver’s seat; the test drive is the most persuasive argument.
Polestar’s Vision: A Future Forged in Electrification
Polestar isn’t content to rest on its laurels with the 4. The brand is executing a clear, ambitious product roadmap that will see its lineup significantly expand by the end of the decade, solidifying its position as a dedicated battery-electric-only brand. This unwavering focus on electrification, a strategic decision that distinguishes Polestar from many legacy automakers still hedging bets with plug-in hybrids, positions it powerfully within the future of electric vehicles narrative.
The Polestar 5, a sleek four-door electric GT sedan, is modeled after the stunning Precept concept car. It’s scheduled for a late 2025 launch in Europe and promises to push boundaries in performance and luxury. Following that, the Polestar 6 will arrive as a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” a pure expression of electric driving dynamics and design prowess. While specific launch dates are still being finalized, these models underscore Polestar’s commitment to thrilling the driving enthusiast.
Looking further ahead, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV slated for 2028, will slot beneath the Polestar 3. This model aims to be smaller and potentially more accessible, showcasing Polestar’s intent to broaden its market reach without compromising its premium ethos. It’s an intelligent move to capture a wider segment of the growing electric vehicle market trends USA.
Polestar’s global manufacturing strategy is also evolving. While the Polestar 4 currently originates from Hangzhou Bay, China, production has also commenced in Busan, South Korea, in 2025. This diversification is a strategic response to global trade dynamics and tariff considerations, demonstrating Polestar’s adaptability in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape. The future Polestar 7 is planned for European production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, further diversifying its manufacturing footprint and potentially navigating future tariff complexities.
With sales growth reported in the first three quarters of 2025 across its 28 global markets, Polestar is clearly gaining traction. Their unwavering commitment to a pure-EV strategy, coupled with a relentless pursuit of design innovation and driving excellence, positions them as a significant force in the competitive EV market 2025.
The Invitation
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new model; it’s a bold step into the next generation of electric vehicles. It’s for the driver who seeks performance without compromise, sustainability without sacrifice, and design that challenges convention. Its innovative rear-window-less design isn’t a deficiency; it’s a declaration of independence from traditional automotive norms, backed by technology that works. Its exhilarating performance, thoughtful interior, and robust safety features make it a standout choice for anyone considering a premium electric SUV.
Are you ready to experience the future of driving, redefined? We invite you to step into a Polestar Space today and personally witness the innovative design and exhilarating performance of the Polestar 4. Discover how a luxury electric SUV can not only meet your expectations but completely transform them. Schedule your test drive and explore the Polestar 4 – where innovation drives experience.
