The Polestar 4: A 2025 Vision of Electric Performance, Minus the Rear Window
As we navigate the dynamic landscape of 2025’s automotive market, few vehicles spark co
nversation quite like the Polestar 4. Having spent a decade immersed in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, from its nascent stages to today’s hyper-competitive premium segment, I can confidently say that Polestar continues to push boundaries. Their newest entrant, the Polestar 4, is not just another electric SUV; it’s a statement piece, a blend of cutting-edge automotive design, robust EV performance, and a truly audacious approach to spatial perception. Priced from a significant $56,400, this premium electric SUV has finally landed on US shores, ready to challenge conventions and redefine what consumers expect from a luxury electric vehicle.
Having observed its successful rollout in Europe since early 2024, the anticipation for the Polestar 4 in the North American market has been palpable. This electric D-segment performance SUV slides deftly into the brand’s expanding lineup, positioning itself strategically between the crossover-esque Polestar 2 sedan and the larger Polestar 3 SUV. Its dimensions are strikingly similar to formidable competitors like the Porsche Macan EV, signaling its intent to compete directly in the upper echelons of the electric vehicle market. Polestar’s product lead, Ola Aldensjö, accurately describes it as bridging a critical gap in their portfolio, offering a compelling package of size, power, and innovative technology.
My first extensive experience with the Polestar 4 on the winding roads of Austin, Texas, offered a profound insight into its capabilities. Both the single- and dual-motor configurations proved exceptionally potent, each delivering a nuanced driving experience. What particularly resonated with me was the surprisingly compelling argument for the single-motor, rear-wheel-drive variant. While shedding some of the dual-motor’s eye-watering acceleration, it shaves off a noticeable chunk from the Polestar’s typically premium EV pricing (starting at $57,800 for the RWD), trims curb weight, and importantly, extends its estimated Polestar 4 range from the dual-motor’s 280 miles to an impressive 310 miles. For many US buyers, this blend of enhanced range and a more accessible price point will be a significant draw, offering substantial value in the electric vehicle segment. The AWD dual-motor version, starting at $64,300, is undeniably thrilling, but the single-motor stands out as a smart, practical choice without compromising the core Polestar driving dynamics.
Digging into the technical specifications, the rear-wheel-drive Polestar 4 employs a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, delivering a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant nearly doubles this output with 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque. On paper, the acceleration figures paint a stark contrast: 3.7 seconds to 62 mph for the dual-motor versus 6.9 seconds for the single-motor. However, my real-world impressions revealed a more cohesive driving feel than these numbers suggest. Both versions launch with the characteristic instant high-torque electric motor response inherent to EVs, delivering exhilarating alacrity. Whether you opt for the single or dual, the cars feel remarkably responsive and eager to surge forward. Both share a 124 mph top speed and are equipped with a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery, capable of rapid EV fast charging at up to 200 kilowatts. A crucial update for the US market in 2025 is the integration of NACS ports as standard, simplifying charging infrastructure compatibility for American consumers. This foresight positions Polestar strongly within the evolving US EV charging infrastructure.
Undoubtedly, the most polarizing — and perhaps defining — cutting-edge automotive design element of the Polestar 4 is the complete absence of a dedicated rear window. This bold aesthetic, also slated for the forthcoming Polestar 5, sees the panoramic glass roof extending seamlessly to the rear. This decision could have been a significant Achilles’ heel, raising immediate concerns about rear visibility. However, Polestar’s ingenious solution addresses this head-on: a high-definition, roof-mounted, rearward-facing camera feeds a comprehensive, wide-angle view directly to the digital rear-view mirror.
In practice, this solution works not just adequately, but exceptionally well. The clarity and field of view provided by the camera surpass what a traditional narrow rear window typically offers. During discussions with fellow journalists, concerns were raised about adverse weather conditions – particularly the thick ice common on Midwestern winter mornings. Polestar representatives, however, were confident in the system’s robustness, citing heating elements and advanced optics designed to maintain functionality even in harsh environments. Polestar Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni, elaborated on the rationale, explaining that achieving a sleek coupe-style roofline while balancing interior roominess, aerodynamics, and rear visibility usually necessitates a compromise in one area. “We weren’t prepared to accept that,” Missoni stated, highlighting their commitment to innovation. This drive led to the camera-mirror solution, which he confirmed was fully embraced by the engineering team and is both “technically achievable and perfectly legal.” It’s a testament to modern EV technology pushing the boundaries of traditional automotive design.
Stepping inside the Polestar 4 reveals a cabin that is a delightful blend of sustainable luxury and ergonomic intelligence. Polestars have consistently excelled in comfort, and this model is no exception. The available Bridge of Weir leather seats, with their exquisite feel and integrated heat and massage functions, elevate the driving experience to one of serene indulgence. For the environmentally conscious, Polestar offers an equally appealing, eco-friendly interior material option: a neat Tailored Knit upholstery crafted from recycled PET plastic waste, 3D-knitted to size. This commitment to sustainable automotive practices is a hallmark of the brand and increasingly important for today’s discerning consumer.
The rear passenger experience benefits directly from the rear window-free styling, allowing for significantly more headroom. The rear seats themselves recline and heat up, available as part of the “Plus Pack,” further enhancing passenger comfort on longer journeys. Rear occupants also gain access to a small, dedicated screen for climate and basic infotainment controls – though it’s important to note it doesn’t support video playback. Upfront, the center stack is dominated by a visually pleasing, 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen. This central display serves as the nerve center for much of the vehicle’s functionality, from navigation to climate control. While sleek, this screen-centric approach means some functions, like vent adjustments and even the glovebox door, are digital-only, a trend I personally find can occasionally detract from intuitive manual control during driving. Rear-seat legroom, while adequate, isn’t as expansive as one might hope, but the luggage area compensates with its impressive width and cavernous depth, complete with under-floor storage. Access is made easy via a powered tailgate, and a handy frunk provides additional storage for charging cables or smaller items, reinforcing the Polestar 4’s EV practicality.
On the technological front, the Polestar 4 is the first in the lineup to feature Google Maps live lane guidance. While not active on the pre-production test units, this functionality promises to revolutionize navigation by offering optimized lane suggestions, enhanced visual cues for upcoming turns, and detailed displays of city crosswalks and road signs. This level of integrated Google Automotive OS functionality elevates the user experience significantly. A whimsical, yet oddly charming, detail is the screensaver that displays a robot dog with the message “my owner will be back soon” – a playful touch in an otherwise sophisticated package.
Behind the wheel, the digital driver’s instrument panel, a crisp 10.2-inch display, immediately showed 288 miles of available range from a 95% charge, a solid indicator of its long-distance capability. Out on the varied terrain of the Texas hill country, the Polestar 4 in dual-motor guise displayed impeccable dynamic road manners. Despite its substantial 5,192-pound curb weight, the car felt remarkably agile, diving confidently into corners, its active dampers providing a compliant yet sporty ride. The four-piston Brembo brakes delivered the powerful, reassuring stopping performance expected of such a dynamic vehicle. This is, unequivocally, a very well-engineered and exceptionally quiet performance electric SUV. It also bristles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), boasting an array of 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors that contribute to a comprehensive suite of safety and convenience features, pushing the envelope for autonomous driving features in consumer vehicles.
The cabin transforms into a personal concert hall, thanks to the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, part of the premium pack. While the recent trend of omitting AM radio continues, the sound quality is immersive and rich, making every journey an auditory pleasure. All this premium refinement and technological prowess, however, comes at a cost. The test dual-motor unit I drove, fully loaded with options, reached a final price tag of $71,600, placing it firmly in the high-performance electric car luxury segment.
From an aesthetic standpoint, while the Polestar 4 possesses distinct cool lighting tricks and an undeniable presence, some might argue its overall styling could be sharper to truly dominate a crowded segment. Yet, where it truly excels and makes its strongest case is from the driver’s seat. This is a vehicle that truly comes alive when experienced. Polestar’s product identity team, led by Christian Samson, had a clear objective for the 4: “to shrink the car, to make it feel lighter,” and to achieve a 300-mile range. Having driven it, I can affirm they’ve largely achieved this mission; the Polestar 4 feels remarkably light on its feet and delivers on its range promise.
In 2025, understanding global manufacturing plays a key role in market strategy. The Polestar 4 is currently built at a plant in Hangzhou Bay, China, with production also commencing this year in Busan, South Korea. This strategic move to South Korea, as Samson noted, is a response to evolving trade agreements and tariffs. South Korea’s current 15% tariff for imported vehicles (though subject to potential future changes) offers a significant advantage for Polestar in navigating the complex global automotive trade landscape.
Looking ahead, Polestar’s commitment to being an exclusively battery electric-only brand remains unwavering. Samson confirmed that while plug-in hybrids were considered, the company has firmly decided to focus solely on pure EVs. The brand’s ambition is evident in its burgeoning future lineup: The Polestar 5, a speedy four-door electric GT sedan inspired by the Precept concept car, is slated for a European launch late this year, promising to be a direct competitor in the grand touring EV segment. The Polestar 6, a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” hints at pure driving exhilaration, though a firm release date is yet to be announced. Both the 5 and 6 are likely to be built in China. Further out, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV due in 2028, will be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, designed to broaden the brand’s appeal without replacing the popular Polestar 2. Notably, the 7 is planned for production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, leveraging existing European manufacturing infrastructure. This distributed global manufacturing strategy underscores Polestar’s ambition and adaptability in a rapidly changing market.
Polestar’s journey has been one of consistent innovation and a firm commitment to electrification. With a presence in 28 markets globally, the brand reported continued sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025, a testament to the increasing demand for their distinctive blend of design, performance, and sustainability. The Polestar 4 embodies this ethos perfectly. It’s not just an SUV; it’s a bold statement on the future of electric mobility, a vehicle that challenges perception and delivers an unforgettable driving experience.
The Polestar 4 is a compelling, uniquely designed, and dynamically engaging premium electric SUV that arrives in the US market ready to turn heads. Its “no rear window” design is more than a gimmick; it’s a functional re-imagination that works surprisingly well, backed by strong performance, luxurious sustainable interiors, and a wealth of integrated technology. For the discerning buyer seeking an eco-friendly luxury vehicle that stands apart from the crowd, while delivering exhilarating performance and cutting-edge features, the Polestar 4 demands serious consideration.
Experience the future of driving today. We invite you to explore the audacious design and exhilarating performance of the new Polestar 4. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive to truly understand what sets this innovative electric SUV apart in the evolving landscape of 2025.
