Polestar 4: Redefining the Luxury Electric SUV Segment for the US Market in 2025
For a decade, I’ve navigated the intricate currents of the automotive industry, wit
nessing firsthand the dramatic shift towards electrification. From early adoption anxieties to the current surge in cutting-edge EV technology, the landscape has transformed beyond recognition. As we push deeper into 2025, the market is rife with options, but every so often, a vehicle emerges that genuinely challenges convention and elevates the user experience. The Polestar 4 is precisely that vehicle, making its highly anticipated arrival on US roads with a blend of audacious design, exhilarating performance, and thoughtful practicality that demands attention. It’s not just another electric SUV; it’s a statement, a forward-thinking piece of Sustainable Automotive engineering that aims to set a new benchmark in the Luxury Electric SUV category.
Having closely followed Polestar’s journey from Volvo’s performance arm to a standalone Premium EV Technology innovator, the Polestar 4 represents a pivotal moment for the brand. Positioned strategically between the sleek Polestar 2 and the robust Polestar 3, it enters a fiercely competitive EV Market Growth Forecast for 2025, aiming to carve out its niche as a distinctive, driver-centric electric SUV coupe.
A Bold Vision: The Disappearing Rear Window and Its Impact on Automotive Design Innovation
Let’s address the elephant in the room, or rather, the absence of a window in the rear. The Polestar 4’s most discussed and arguably most innovative design feature is its complete lack of a conventional rear window. This isn’t a mere stylistic quirk; it’s a profound re-imagining of automotive design driven by a desire to optimize aerodynamics, enhance structural rigidity, and maximize interior comfort. In my years reviewing vehicles, this is one of the boldest design choices I’ve seen implemented for mass production, and it works.
Polestar Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, elaborated on this vision, highlighting the inherent conflict in traditional coupe-SUV designs: balancing a sloped roofline for aesthetics and aero with adequate rear headroom and visibility. Their solution, extending the panoramic glass roof seamlessly to the rear and replacing the physical window with a high-definition, roof-mounted camera feed displayed on the rearview mirror, is nothing short of brilliant. This Automotive Design Innovation liberates rear passengers, offering an expansive cabin feel, particularly in terms of headroom, which is often compromised in vehicles with such rakish profiles.
The practical implications are surprisingly positive. The camera provides a wider, clearer, and unobstructed view than any traditional rear window, eliminating blind spots from headrests or C-pillars. For drivers accustomed to a traditional mirror, the transition is seamless and intuitive, enhancing safety and awareness. Concerns about the camera lens becoming obscured by snow or grime, particularly in harsher climates, are valid. However, Polestar engineers assure robust design with self-cleaning capabilities and heating elements, a crucial detail for ensuring consistent visibility in diverse US weather conditions. This ingenious approach represents a significant step towards the Future of Mobility Solutions, where digital interfaces increasingly augment, and sometimes replace, physical components.
Performance That Electrifies: Dual-Motor Dominance and Single-Motor Savvy
Beneath its avant-garde exterior, the Polestar 4 delivers on its performance promise, embodying the essence of Electric Vehicle Performance. Available in both single-motor (RWD) and dual-motor (AWD) configurations, it caters to different priorities without compromising the core driving experience.
The dual-motor variant, a true powerhouse, commands attention with a staggering 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque. The immediacy of Next Generation Electric Car power delivery is evident from the moment you depress the accelerator, launching the 5,192-pound SUV from 0 to 62 mph in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds. This isn’t just about straight-line speed; the torque vectoring capabilities of the dual-motor setup contribute to exceptional grip and stability, allowing the Polestar 4 to dive into corners with remarkable composure, belying its size. The active dampers work in harmony with the chassis, providing a surprisingly agile and engaging drive, a testament to its meticulous engineering.
However, it’s the single-motor RWD version that often surprises and, for many, might represent the sweet spot in the lineup. With a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, it’s far from sluggish, reaching 62 mph in a respectable 6.9 seconds. What it lacks in brute force compared to its dual-motor sibling, it makes up for in efficiency, a slightly lighter feel, and a more accessible price point. The RWD configuration provides a classic driving dynamic, and the generous torque inherent to EVs ensures ample alacrity for everyday driving and confident highway merging. In a market increasingly conscious of both performance and value, the single-motor Polestar 4 offers a compelling blend, making Sustainable Mobility both thrilling and attainable. Both variants are electronically limited to a top speed of 124 mph, a more than adequate figure for any public road.
Powering the Journey: Range, Charging, and NACS Integration
Underpinning both Polestar 4 variants is a substantial 100-kWh battery, providing the juice for impressive range figures that address dwindling EV Range Anxiety Solutions. The dual-motor model offers an estimated 280 miles, while the more efficient single-motor variant pushes that to an estimated 310 miles on a full charge. These figures are not just competitive for 2025; they are indicative of a mature EV ecosystem where 300+ miles has become a benchmark for practicality and long-distance usability.
When it comes to recharging, the Polestar 4 is equipped for rapid replenishment. It supports Fast Charging EV Network speeds of up to 200 kW, allowing for a significant top-up in a remarkably short time. This capability is critical for cross-country travel and reducing downtime. Crucially for the US market, Polestar has embraced the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, making the Polestar 4 seamlessly compatible with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, alongside other NACS-equipped charging stations. This widespread adoption of NACS is a game-changer for Electric Vehicle Technology in the US, drastically improving charging convenience and accessibility for owners, solidifying the Polestar 4’s position as a practical choice for the modern American driver.
An Interior Sanctuary: Sustainable Luxury and Intuitive Technology
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you enter a meticulously crafted cabin that exudes modern Scandinavian luxury, emphasizing both comfort and sustainability. Polestar has always championed minimalist design, and the 4 refines this ethos, creating an uncluttered yet inviting space.
The available Bridge of Weir leather seats offer plush comfort, enhanced by heating and massage functions, providing a truly Premium EV Technology experience. For those prioritizing environmental consciousness, the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste and 3D-knitted to shape, is a standout option. This material not only looks and feels fantastic but also underscores Polestar’s commitment to sustainable practices in Automotive Innovation.
The rear cabin benefits immensely from the absence of a rear window, offering surprising spaciousness and an airy feel. Rear seats recline and can be heated (with the Plus Pack), further enhancing passenger comfort. A dedicated small screen in the rear provides climate and infotainment control, although it doesn’t support video playback, keeping the focus on passenger comfort and convenience.
At the heart of the dashboard is a crisp, 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS. This integration provides a familiar and highly functional interface, with seamless access to Google Maps (featuring live lane guidance for optimized routing), Google Assistant, and a plethora of apps. While many core vehicle functions are consolidated into this screen – including climate control and, somewhat controversially, the glovebox door – the overall system is highly responsive and visually appealing. Some traditionalists might miss physical buttons for certain controls, but this minimalist approach aligns with the Polestar design philosophy.
The driver’s instrumentation is handled by a clear 10.2-inch digital display, providing essential driving data at a glance. An amusing touch, reflecting Polestar’s playful side, is a screensaver featuring a robot dog proclaiming “my owner will be back soon” – a delightful detail for passersby.
Beyond luxury, safety and assistance are paramount. The Polestar 4 bristles with ADAS Features Electric Car technology, boasting an impressive array of 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. These systems contribute to a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, enhancing everything from adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to automatic emergency braking and parking assistance, making every journey safer and less fatiguing.
The auditory experience is equally impressive, especially with the optional 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, featuring 12 speakers. It fills the cabin with rich, immersive sound, creating a delightful atmosphere for any journey. (Notably, in line with a growing industry trend, AM radio is not included.)
Strategic Positioning and the Future Polestar Ecosystem
Priced starting at approximately $56,400 for the single-motor and $64,300 for the dual-motor AWD variant, the Polestar 4 enters the market with a premium tag. While substantial, this pricing reflects its positioning as a genuine contender in the Luxury Electric SUV segment, competing with established players and new entrants alike. The test dual-motor model, fully loaded, reached $71,600, demonstrating the depth of available premium features. For consumers exploring EV Market Trends 2025, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling value proposition through its unique design, advanced technology, and performance pedigree.
Manufacturing plays a critical role in market access and pricing. Initially produced in Hangzhou Bay, China, Polestar’s strategic decision to begin production in Busan, South Korea, this year is a savvy move to mitigate tariff impacts for the US market. Following a recent trade agreement, South Korea’s tariff rate is a more favorable 15%, a crucial factor in maintaining competitive pricing and solidifying the brand’s presence.
The Polestar 4 is not an isolated offering; it’s a vital piece of a rapidly expanding puzzle. Polestar’s commitment as a pure-electric brand is unwavering, steadfastly rejecting plug-in hybrids to focus solely on Electric Vehicle Technology. The brand’s journey continues with:
Polestar 5: A sleek, speedy four-door electric GT sedan, expected to launch in Europe later this year, drawing inspiration from the stunning Precept concept car.
Polestar 6: An exhilarating two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” though its release date remains unconfirmed.
Polestar 7: A two-row SUV slated for 2028, designed to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, but not a replacement for the Polestar 2. Crucially, the Polestar 7 is planned for production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, an EU member, which brings its own set of tariff considerations for the US market that may evolve by 2028.
Polestar’s aggressive rollout plan across 28 global markets, coupled with reported sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025, underscores its ambition and increasing traction within the global automotive landscape. The Polestar 4, with its blend of unique design, impressive performance, and forward-thinking technology, is poised to significantly contribute to this momentum, appealing to discerning US buyers looking for something truly different.
The Expert Verdict: A Vision Realized
My experience with the Polestar 4 solidified its potential as a disruptor. Christian Samson, who leads the Polestar product identity team, stated their goal was “to shrink the car, to make it feel lighter,” and achieve a 300-mile range. From the driver’s seat, Polestar has unequivocally achieved these missions. It feels remarkably light on its feet despite its substantial construction, and its range makes it a genuinely practical daily driver and long-distance cruiser. This SUV delivers a truly well-engineered, quiet, and dynamically engaging experience that ultimately makes the sale.
The Polestar 4 is more than just a competent Electric Vehicle Technology package; it’s a statement about where automotive design and functionality can go when freed from conventional constraints. Its bold approach to the rear window, combined with its refined driving dynamics, luxurious interior, and comprehensive technology suite, positions it as a compelling choice for the discerning US consumer in 2025. It’s a vehicle that sparks conversation, challenges expectations, and ultimately, rewards those who embrace its forward-thinking philosophy.
Experience the Future of Driving
Ready to experience a truly innovative Luxury Electric SUV that breaks free from convention? The Polestar 4 is arriving at Polestar Spaces across the US, offering a driving experience unlike any other. Discover the Polestar 4 today and explore how its unique design, exhilarating performance, and advanced technology redefine what an electric SUV can be. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or connect with a specialist online to schedule your personalized test drive and step into the future of sustainable, premium mobility.
