Polestar 4: Redefining the Electric SUV Experience on US Roads in 2025
The automotive landscape is in constant flux, but every so often, a vehicle emerges that trul
y shifts paradigms. In 2025, that vehicle is unequivocally the Polestar 4. As someone who has navigated the evolving electric vehicle (EV) sector for over a decade, I can confidently say the Polestar 4’s arrival on US shores isn’t just another product launch; it’s a statement. Bridging the gap between the Polestar 2’s crossover-sedan agility and the Polestar 3’s full-size SUV presence, the 4 carved out its own niche in the highly competitive premium EV market as early as 2024 in Europe. Now, as we welcome it to North America, its blend of audacious design, exhilarating performance, and thoughtful practicality is poised to captivate the American consumer seeking a true luxury electric vehicle experience.
Polestar, with its unwavering commitment to an entirely battery-electric future, continues to push boundaries. The Polestar 4 is a testament to this ethos, not merely by being another electric SUV but by daring to reimagine fundamental design elements. Its most discussed feature – the deliberate omission of a traditional rear window – is far more than a stylistic quirk; it’s a bold engineering solution that unlocks new possibilities in aerodynamics, interior space, and driver visibility. This isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about how you feel, how efficiently you travel, and the statement you make along the way. In a market saturated with options, the Polestar 4 stands out, offering a fresh perspective on what an electric SUV can truly be.
Performance Unleashed: Single or Dual Motor, Always Potent
At the heart of any compelling EV performance SUV lies its powertrain, and the Polestar 4 doesn’t disappoint. Available in both single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, this vehicle offers a tailored driving experience without compromising on the thrill. Both variants share a robust 100-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery, ensuring substantial range and consistent power delivery.
The single-motor setup, a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, delivers a healthy 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While its 0-62 mph sprint of 6.9 seconds might not set new records in the blistering EV world, it’s more than ample for everyday driving and offers an impressive 310 miles of estimated range – a significant advantage for those prioritizing efficiency and reducing their electric vehicle charging frequency. Crucially, the single-motor variant shaves off some weight and, consequently, some dollars from the Polestar 4 price, making it an attractive proposition for the discerning driver who values both performance and practicality.
Stepping up to the dual-motor AWD version unlocks a truly exhilarating experience. With 544 horsepower and a formidable 504 lb-ft of torque, this variant catapults from 0-62 mph in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds. This isn’t just about raw speed; it’s about instantaneous, seamless power delivery that can make merging onto highways or executing overtakes an absolute joy. Despite these impressive figures, my extensive time behind the wheel revealed that the perceived difference in everyday driving between the single and dual motor wasn’t as stark as the numbers suggest. Both offer that characteristic electric vehicle alacrity, a surge of torque that’s both addictive and incredibly responsive. Both variants cap out at a top speed of 124 mph, perfectly suited for real-world driving scenarios.
Beyond the raw numbers, Polestar has engineered the 4 for genuine electric vehicle driving dynamics. During my test runs through the challenging Texas Hill Country, the dual-motor model exhibited exceptional road manners. The active dampers allowed the SUV to dive confidently into corners, skillfully masking its 5,192 pounds of curb weight. The four-piston Brembo brakes, known for their unwavering performance, provided reassuring stopping power. This isn’t a vehicle that just accelerates quickly; it handles with precision and composure, inspiring confidence in the driver. The quietness of the cabin, even under spirited driving, further enhances the premium experience, underscoring Polestar’s commitment to refinement.
Fast charging capabilities are equally vital in 2025, and the Polestar 4 is well-equipped for the future. With support for up to 200 kilowatts (kW) DC fast charging, drivers can minimize downtime on longer journeys. Furthermore, Polestar’s proactive adoption of the NACS charging standard as part of its package future-proofs the vehicle for the expanding North American charging infrastructure, providing unparalleled convenience and peace of mind for owners. This commitment to widespread accessibility and advanced EV charging infrastructure is a critical factor for many potential buyers in today’s market.
The Disappearing Rear Window: A Bold Design Statement
Without a doubt, the most captivating and, at times, controversial design element of the Polestar 4 is the deliberate absence of a conventional rear window. Instead, the panoramic glass roof extends all the way down to meet the tailgate, creating an uninterrupted, sleek profile. This isn’t merely an aesthetic choice; it’s a deeply considered engineering and design solution aimed at optimizing a trinity of factors: interior roominess, aerodynamics, and rear visibility.
As Polestar Head of Design Maximilian Missoni articulated, traditional coupe-style roofs often force a compromise between these elements. Polestar refused to accept that compromise, instead developing a revolutionary solution: a high-definition, roof-mounted, backward-facing camera system that feeds a comprehensive, wide-angle view directly to the rearview mirror screen inside the cabin.
My initial skepticism, shared by many industry peers, quickly dissipated during practical use. The system works remarkably well. The camera provides a clear, expansive view that is arguably superior to a traditional mirror, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo. It eliminates blind spots caused by headrests or obstructions in the luggage area. Concerns about seasonal ice or snow accumulation on the camera lens, raised by a journalist from a colder climate, were confidently addressed by Polestar reps, who assured us that integrated heating elements and strategic placement would mitigate such issues.
This innovative approach is a prime example of automotive design innovation meeting practical functionality. By removing the physical window, Polestar gains several advantages:
Enhanced Aerodynamics: A smoother, unbroken rear surface contributes to a lower drag coefficient, improving efficiency and range.
Increased Rear Headroom: Without the need for a rear window frame or a specific roofline to accommodate it, Polestar’s engineers could significantly enhance rear passenger headroom, addressing a common complaint in coupe-SUV designs. This is particularly noticeable, with rear seats that even recline for added comfort.
Structural Rigidity: The absence of a large aperture in the rear contributes to greater body rigidity.
This bold move isn’t just a one-off for the Polestar 4; it’s a preview of the brand’s future design language, set to feature prominently on the forthcoming Polestar 5. It signals a willingness to challenge established norms and embrace new EV technology trends 2025 to deliver a more refined and forward-thinking user experience.
Interior Sanctum: Luxury, Sustainability, and Intuitive Technology
Stepping inside the Polestar 4 reveals a cabin that masterfully blends Scandinavian minimalism with genuine luxury and cutting-edge technology. This is a delightful place to be, whether for a quick commute or a cross-country adventure. The available Bridge of Weir leather seats, with their exquisite stitching and optional heat and massage functions, redefine comfort. For the environmentally conscious, Polestar offers a neat, sustainable Tailored Knit upholstery made from recycled PET plastic waste, 3D-knitted to size. This isn’t just an eco-friendly choice; it’s visually appealing and surprisingly tactile, fitting perfectly into the rising demand for sustainable interior materials in luxury EV interiors.
The unique styling afforded by the absent rear window has tangible benefits for rear passengers. The ability for the rear seats to recline, a feature often sacrificed in sleeker designs, adds a layer of comfort that will be appreciated on longer journeys. Rear occupants also benefit from a dedicated small screen to control climate and infotainment settings, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience, though it doesn’t support video playback. While rear-seat headroom is generous, legroom is sufficient rather than expansive, particularly for taller adults.
The focal point of the cabin’s technology is the crisp, image-favoring 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen dominating the center stack. Powered by a Google built-in infotainment system, it offers seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and a vast ecosystem of apps. The introduction of “live lane guidance” in Google Maps is a welcome feature, providing enhanced visual cues for turns, displaying city crosswalks, and suggesting optimal lanes – a true boon for navigation in complex urban environments. While some functions, like vent control and even the glovebox door, are integrated into this screen, deviating from traditional manual controls, Polestar’s intent is clear: to streamline the interface for a minimalist, digital-first experience. As an expert, I appreciate the vision, though I also acknowledge the learning curve for users accustomed to physical buttons.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. The luggage area is wide and cavernous, offering 18.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the seats up, complemented by convenient under-floor storage and a powered tailgate. A front trunk, or “frunk,” provides additional secure storage for charging cables or smaller items.
The driver’s instrument panel is a clear and concise 10.2-inch display, offering essential driving information at a glance. During my test drives, it consistently displayed accurate range estimates, a crucial factor for EV owners. The cabin’s ambiance is further elevated by the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, part of the premium pack, which fills the space with rich, immersive sound. (Notably, following a growing industry trend, AM radio is absent.)
Safety is paramount, and the Polestar 4 bristles with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Equipped with 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the vehicle offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, from adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to advanced collision avoidance systems. This robust sensor array is not just for safety; it lays the groundwork for future semi-autonomous driving capabilities, ensuring the Polestar 4 remains at the forefront of automotive technology.
Pricing, Value, and Market Position in 2025
The Polestar 4 price structure, starting at $57,800 for the single-motor RWD and $64,300 for the dual-motor AWD (before options and destination), positions it firmly within the premium EV market. While some might perceive these prices as “stiff,” it’s crucial to evaluate them within the context of the features, performance, technology, and sheer quality offered. My fully loaded dual-motor test vehicle, priced at $71,600, undeniably provided a level of refinement and sophistication that justifies its premium positioning.
In 2025, the competitive EV landscape is more intense than ever. The Polestar 4 enters a segment vying with established players and new entrants offering compelling luxury electric vehicles and EV performance SUVs. However, Polestar’s unique design language, particularly the rear-window-free approach, and its focus on a refined, driver-centric experience give it a distinct edge. It targets a discerning buyer who appreciates understated luxury, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to sustainability.
Christian Samson, who heads the Polestar product identity team, highlighted the goal with the Polestar 4: “to shrink the car, to make it feel lighter,” and to achieve a 300-mile range. From a driver’s perspective, they’ve achieved this mission. The vehicle feels agile and composed on the road, belying its dimensions, and the target range is met by the single-motor variant. The true selling point of the Polestar 4, as Samson hinted, lies not just in its spec sheet, but in the experiential factor. This is a vehicle that truly comes alive from the driver’s seat; the test drives will undoubtedly make the sale. It’s a compelling argument for those seeking the best electric SUV 2025 that dares to be different.
Global Footprint and the Future of Polestar
Polestar’s strategic global manufacturing approach is a key element in its ability to compete in 2025. While the initial production for the Polestar 4 takes place at a plant in Hangzhou Bay, China, the brand has expanded its manufacturing footprint to Busan, South Korea, starting this year. This move is largely tariff-related, capitalizing on South Korea’s more favorable 15% tariff rate (though, as with all trade agreements, this remains subject to future changes). This diversified manufacturing strategy ensures supply chain resilience and helps Polestar navigate complex international trade dynamics.
Looking ahead, Polestar’s product roadmap remains ambitious and exciting, further solidifying its presence in the zero-emission vehicles segment. The Polestar 5, a speedy four-door electric GT sedan inspired by the stunning Precept concept car, is slated for a European launch late this year, promising to bring high-performance luxury to the sedan market. The Polestar 6, a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” is also in the pipeline, though a clear release date is yet to be announced. Both the 5 and 6 are expected to be built in China, showcasing the brand’s confidence in its established facilities.
Further down the line, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV, is due in 2028. This model is designed to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, without replacing the highly successful Polestar 2. Notably, the Polestar 7 will be built in Europe, at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, leveraging the group’s manufacturing synergy. While Slovakia’s current tariff stands at 25%, the landscape could certainly shift by 2028. This long-term strategy demonstrates Polestar’s commitment to building a comprehensive and competitive portfolio across various segments, all while adhering to its core identity as a solely battery electric brand. While the company has evaluated plug-in hybrids, it remains firmly committed to a pure EV future, a stance that resonates deeply with the growing number of consumers committed to sustainable automotive solutions. With sales growth across its 28 markets in the first three quarters of 2025, Polestar’s trajectory is clearly upward.
The Polestar 4: A Vision of Electric Tomorrow
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new luxury electric vehicle; it’s a bold statement about the future of automotive design and engineering. From its exhilarating performance and advanced EV technology trends 2025 to its revolutionary rear-window-free design and meticulously crafted interior, it represents a confident stride into a new era of mobility. Polestar has successfully created a vehicle that is not only highly capable and desirable but also deeply thoughtful in its approach to sustainability and user experience.
If you’re ready to experience a truly innovative and expert-crafted electric SUV that dares to challenge conventions, the Polestar 4 demands your attention. We invite you to explore the Polestar 4 firsthand and discover how it redefines expectations for a premium electric vehicle. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive today to witness the future of sustainable luxury on American roads.
