Polestar 4: A 2025 Expert Review of the Rear-Windowless Electric SUV Redefining Premium Performance
From my decade navigating the rapidly accelerating currents of t
he automotive industry, particularly in the electrifying realm of EVs, I can tell you one thing for certain: 2025 is a year of bold statements. Manufacturers are no longer merely adapting to electric powertrains; they’re reinventing the very concept of a car. And few vehicles embody this transformative spirit as provocatively as the Polestar 4. Having finally landed on US roads this year, after an initial European debut, this isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a meticulously engineered, visually audacious, and technologically forward-thinking machine that dares to challenge fundamental automotive design principles.
Polestar, as a brand, has rapidly carved out a formidable niche in the premium EV market. Positioned as a performance-oriented sibling to Volvo, it consistently delivers vehicles that blend Scandinavian minimalism with exhilarating electric performance. The Polestar 4 is strategically slotted into their lineup between the versatile Polestar 2 sedan and the flagship Polestar 3 SUV, placing it firmly in the competitive D-segment, a space increasingly populated by discerning buyers seeking both utility and driving excitement. Think Porsche Macan EV, and you’re in the right ballpark for size and ambition. But where the Polestar 4 truly differentiates itself, beyond its sleek coupe-SUV silhouette, is with a design choice that’s sparked conversations across the industry: the deliberate absence of a traditional rear window. This isn’t just a quirk; it’s a statement, a design solution, and a harbinger of what automotive design trends might look like in the latter half of this decade.
Design Philosophy: The Rear-View Revolution and Aesthetic Audacity
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the absence of a window in the rear. The Polestar 4 foregoes a conventional rear glass pane, extending its panoramic glass roof seamlessly to the rear. My initial reaction, much like many seasoned automotive journalists and engineers, was a mix of intrigue and skepticism. How could this work? What about rear visibility? Yet, having spent considerable time with the vehicle, I can confidently state that Polestar’s engineering team has not only made it work but has turned it into an innovative feature.
The rationale, as Polestar’s Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, explained, lies in a fundamental dilemma: achieving a coupe-style roofline, maximizing interior spaciousness, maintaining aerodynamic efficiency, and providing adequate rear visibility. Traditionally, one of these elements had to be compromised. Polestar’s radical solution is a high-definition, roof-mounted, rear-facing camera that feeds a crystal-clear, ultra-wide image directly to the digital rearview mirror inside the cabin.
In practice, this rearview camera system is surprisingly effective. The field of view is significantly broader than a traditional mirror, offering an unhindered perspective that even tall rear passengers or bulky cargo wouldn’t obstruct. Concerns about adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or the dreaded Midwestern morning ice, are valid. However, Polestar engineers assure that robust heating elements and hydrophobic coatings are integrated to ensure consistent clarity. This audacious design choice, initially a point of contention, now feels like a logical progression in the era of digital cockpits and EV technology innovations, allowing for a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile while enhancing safety through superior digital vision. It’s a testament to Polestar’s willingness to push boundaries and reconsider what constitutes essential automotive components. The extended glass roof not only contributes to the exterior’s streamlined aesthetic but also bathes the cabin in natural light, creating an airy and expansive feel often lacking in performance-oriented vehicles.
Beyond the rear, the Polestar 4’s overall design language is quintessentially Polestar: clean lines, taut surfacing, and a powerful stance. The split headlights, a signature Polestar element, integrate seamlessly with the aerodynamically optimized front fascia, hinting at the vehicle’s performance capabilities. Every crease and curve is purposeful, contributing to both its visual appeal and its impressive drag coefficient, a crucial factor for maximizing electric car range.
Powertrain Prowess: Single vs. Dual Motor Dynamics
Underneath that striking exterior lies a powertrain designed to thrill, yet also engineered for efficiency and practicality—a delicate balance that defines the best electric SUVs 2025. The Polestar 4 is available in two distinct configurations, each offering a compelling proposition for different drivers: the single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants.
The single-motor version, a compelling choice for those prioritizing range and a slightly more accessible entry point into premium electric vehicle ownership, utilizes a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor. This translates to a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. Don’t let the “single motor” designation fool you; thanks to the inherent, instant torque delivery of electric vehicle battery technology, this variant still delivers spirited acceleration. It will propel the Polestar 4 from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 6.9 seconds, more than sufficient for assertive highway merges and urban agility. What truly shines here is its estimated range: an impressive 310 miles on a single charge. For many drivers, this figure effectively mitigates “range anxiety” and solidifies its position as a highly capable daily driver and long-distance cruiser.
However, for those seeking uncompromised performance, the dual-motor AWD variant truly unleashes the beast. With a staggering 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, this version slashes the 0-62 mph sprint time to a blistering 3.7 seconds. These are figures that firmly place the Polestar 4 in the territory of high-performance electric cars, offering a level of acceleration that pins you to your seat with an exhilarating, silent ferocity. Despite the significant power difference on paper, both models share a top speed of 124 mph, a sensible limit given the demands of public roads.
Both configurations are powered by a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack, a key component in achieving their impressive range figures. When it comes to recharging, Polestar has equipped the 4 with fast charging EV capabilities, supporting speeds of up to 200 kilowatts. This means a significant top-up – from 10% to 80% – can be achieved in under 30 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger, a crucial convenience for mitigating downtime during long journeys. Furthermore, acknowledging the rapidly evolving EV charging infrastructure in North America, Polestar has embraced the NACS charging port as standard, ensuring seamless compatibility with the dominant Tesla Supercharger network and other NACS-equipped stations without the need for adapters. This move is a significant win for consumer convenience and a clear indicator of EV market trends 2025.
Polestar’s engineering philosophy extends beyond raw numbers. The sophisticated thermal management system ensures optimal battery performance and longevity, even under demanding driving conditions or during repeated fast-charging cycles. The integrated drivetrain management works intelligently to deliver power smoothly and efficiently, whether you’re navigating city traffic or carving through winding backroads, making the most of every kilowatt-hour.
An Interior Sanctuary: Craftsmanship, Comfort & Connectivity
Stepping inside the Polestar 4 reveals a cabin that masterfully blends minimalist aesthetics with opulent comfort and cutting-edge connected car technology. The design ethos is distinctly Scandinavian – uncluttered, functional, and imbued with a sense of calm. However, this simplicity belies a wealth of thoughtful details and premium finishes.
Comfort is paramount, especially in a vehicle targeting the luxury segment. The optional Bridge of Weir leather seats are exquisite, offering not only heating but also a soothing massage function, transforming longer drives into a truly relaxing experience. Polestar also demonstrates its commitment to sustainable mobility solutions with an equally appealing alternative: the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery. This textile is ingeniously crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste, 3D-knitted to precise dimensions, eliminating material waste and significantly reducing its environmental footprint. This focus on eco-friendly car interiors without compromising on luxury or durability is a hallmark of forward-thinking brands like Polestar.
Rear passenger comfort has also been a key consideration, especially given the coupe-like roofline. Thanks in part to the absence of a traditional rear window, which allows for more design flexibility, the rear seats recline, enhancing comfort on longer trips. An available Plus pack adds heating to these rear seats, ensuring all occupants are coddled. A small, dedicated screen for rear passengers provides convenient control over climate settings and infotainment playback (though it doesn’t support video streaming), further enhancing the luxury electric SUV experience. While rear headroom is generally good, legroom is ample but might feel a little less expansive for taller adults than in a more traditionally proportioned SUV, a minor trade-off for the sleek exterior.
At the heart of the digital cockpit is a striking 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen, dominating the center stack. This vibrant display, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, is the command center for virtually all vehicle functions. The native integration of Google services like Google Maps with live lane guidance provides intuitive, real-time navigation that optimizes routes and clearly indicates lane recommendations for upcoming turns. The system also offers enhanced visual cues for complex intersections and displays crucial urban details like crosswalks and road signs. While the system is highly responsive and graphically appealing, the integration of functions like vent controls and, surprisingly, even the glovebox door operation into the touchscreen interface might require a slight adjustment period for drivers accustomed to physical buttons. From an expert in the field perspective, while touchscreens offer a sleek aesthetic, a balanced approach with some haptic controls for frequently used functions often enhances usability and reduces driver distraction.
The Polestar 4 also features a 10.2-inch driver’s instrument panel that presents critical driving information with clarity and elegance. A unique, playful touch is the screensaver feature that, when parked, displays an animated robot dog with the message “my owner will be back soon”—a subtle nod to the vehicle’s personality and an intriguing element of next-generation EVs.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. The luggage area is commendably wide and cavernous, offering 18.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats upright. Thoughtful under-floor storage compartments provide additional secure space, and the powered tailgate ensures effortless access. A convenient “frunk” (front trunk) beneath the hood provides extra storage for charging cables or smaller items, a welcome feature in any EV.
Finally, the auditory experience is elevated by the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, part of the premium pack. The crisp highs and deep bass notes fill the cabin with immersive sound, transforming every journey into a private concert. (It’s worth noting that, in line with a growing industry trend, AM radio is not included.) This level of premium audio reinforces the Polestar 4’s standing as a sophisticated and desirable entry in the luxury electric SUV segment.
On the Road: Driving Dynamics & Advanced Safety
The true test of any Polestar is its driving dynamics, and the 4 emphatically delivers. Despite its substantial curb weight of over 5,000 pounds (5,192 lbs for the dual motor), the Polestar 4 feels remarkably agile and composed on the road. The low-slung battery pack, inherent to EVs, contributes to a low center of gravity, which, combined with the sophisticated active dampers, allows the vehicle to dive into corners with surprising eagerness and minimal body roll. This sophisticated suspension tuning and the precise, communicative steering make for an engaging driving experience that belies its SUV designation. The electric vehicle handling characteristics are tuned for confident and spirited driving, whether navigating tight city streets or enjoying the open road.
Braking performance is equally impressive. The four-piston Brembo brakes, standard on the dual-motor version, provide powerful and consistent stopping power, instilling confidence even during dynamic driving. The pedal feel is firm and linear, a welcome departure from some regenerative braking systems that can feel artificial.
Refinement is another area where the Polestar 4 excels. The cabin is exceptionally quiet, effectively isolating occupants from road and wind noise. This serene environment accentuates the premium audio system and makes conversations effortless, highlighting Polestar’s commitment to a high-quality, tranquil user experience.
In terms of safety, the Polestar 4 is a technological powerhouse. It bristled with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), integrating 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors that work in concert to provide a comprehensive suite of active safety features. These systems include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking, all designed to enhance automotive safety features and reduce driver fatigue. The combination of these technologies lays the groundwork for future advancements in autonomous driving, positioning the Polestar 4 as a truly modern vehicle aligned with the safety expectations of next-generation EVs.
Market Positioning & The Premium EV Landscape of 2025
Entering the EV market trends 2025, the Polestar 4 faces intense competition. Its starting price of $56,400 for the single-motor RWD and $64,300 for the dual-motor AWD places it firmly in the premium segment, where discerning buyers weigh factors beyond mere price. Fully optioned, a dual-motor Polestar 4 can reach upwards of $71,600, a significant investment. However, Polestar’s value proposition lies in its unique blend of innovative design, exhilarating performance, sustainable luxury, and cutting-edge technology. It offers a distinct alternative to more established luxury brands, appealing to a demographic that values progressive design and a commitment to electric mobility.
Polestar’s strategic manufacturing choices also reflect the complex global economic landscape. Initially built at a plant in Hangzhou Bay, China, production of the Polestar 4 expanded this year to Busan, South Korea. This decision, as Polestar’s product identity team head Christian Samson noted, is directly tied to tariff-related decisions and trade agreements. South Korea’s more favorable 15% tariff rate, compared to the 25% often applied to vehicles imported from China, significantly impacts the vehicle’s competitiveness and pricing in key markets, especially the US. This kind of global manufacturing diversification is becoming increasingly common as automakers navigate geopolitical complexities and optimize their supply chains to deliver competitive pricing in the premium EV market.
Polestar remains steadfast in its commitment as a battery electric-only brand, deliberately avoiding the plug-in hybrid segment. This unwavering focus on pure EVs reinforces its brand identity and appeals to customers who are fully committed to electric mobility and investment in electric vehicles. The brand’s impressive sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025 across its 28 global markets further validates this strategy, demonstrating strong consumer acceptance and demand for its innovative electric offerings.
The Polestar Ecosystem: A Glimpse into the Future
The Polestar 4 is not an isolated offering but rather a crucial piece in a rapidly expanding portfolio that outlines Polestar’s ambitious vision for the future of electric vehicles. Looking ahead, the brand has several exciting models in the pipeline:
Polestar 5: Scheduled for a European launch late this year, the Polestar 5 is a speedy four-door electric GT sedan, directly inspired by the stunning Precept concept car. It promises to push boundaries in performance and luxury within the grand touring segment.
Polestar 6: A breathtaking two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” the Polestar 6 represents the brand’s aspiration for pure, unadulterated electric driving excitement. While a clear release date is yet to be announced, anticipation for this halo car is incredibly high.
Polestar 7: Due in 2028, the Polestar 7 will be a two-row SUV, strategically positioned to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, though not a replacement for the Polestar 2. Crucially, the Polestar 7 is slated for production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, Europe, further diversifying Polestar’s manufacturing footprint and reflecting ongoing adjustments to global trade policies and tariffs.
This strategic rollout of diverse models, spanning various segments from performance SUVs to grand tourers and dedicated sports cars, illustrates Polestar’s commitment to building a comprehensive and compelling electric ecosystem. Each new model builds upon the brand’s core tenets of design innovation, performance engineering, and sustainable practices, ensuring that Polestar remains at the forefront of the electric revolution.
Experience the Future of Driving Today
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new vehicle; it’s a bold statement about where the automotive industry is headed. It challenges conventions, embraces cutting-edge EV technology innovations, and delivers an exhilarating yet refined driving experience. From its controversial yet brilliant rear-windowless design to its potent powertrain options, sustainable interior materials, and advanced safety features, the Polestar 4 stands as a beacon of innovation in the crowded premium EV market of 2025.
If you’re seeking a vehicle that combines Scandinavian cool with electrifying performance and a genuinely forward-thinking approach to design, the Polestar 4 demands your attention. Don’t just read about the future of electric mobility – experience it firsthand. We invite you to explore the Polestar 4 in person and truly grasp how this remarkable electric SUV is redefining what’s possible on the road. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive today to embark on your next electric journey.
