Polestar 4: A 2025 Masterclass in Electric Innovation for the American Road
After a decade immersed in the electrifying currents of automotive innovation, I’ve witn
essed countless contenders vie for supremacy on American tarmac. From nascent startups to established titans, the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs) has been a relentless charge, and as we navigate 2025, one vehicle has unequivocally cemented its position as a true disruptor: the Polestar 4. This isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a bold statement, a design marvel, and a testament to Polestar’s unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, particularly for the discerning US market.
When the Polestar 4 initially launched in Europe, murmurs about its audacious rear-window-delete design sent ripples across the industry. Now, with its official arrival in the United States and Canada, those murmurs have crescendoed into a chorus of intrigue and admiration. Positioned strategically between the crossover-esque Polestar 2 sedan and the full-size Polestar 3 SUV, the 4 aims to carve out a unique niche. It’s a D-segment performance SUV, squarely aimed at the intersection of luxury, performance, and groundbreaking technology, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with formidable rivals like the highly anticipated Porsche Macan EV.
Redefining Performance: Single vs. Dual Motor Dynamics
My recent hands-on experience with the Polestar 4 in the winding hill country outside Austin, Texas, offered a profound insight into its engineering prowess. Both the single and dual-motor configurations of this premium EV performance SUV proved compelling, but in distinctly different ways. As an expert, I’m often asked if the more powerful variant is always the “better” choice. With the Polestar 4, the answer is nuanced, depending on your priorities.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive Polestar 4, starting around $57,800, impressed me immensely. Driven by a potent 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, it delivers 272 horsepower and a robust 253 lb-ft of torque. While its 0-62 mph sprint of 6.9 seconds might not set new records, the immediate, seamless surge of electric vehicle torque is palpable. This variant feels lighter on its feet, more agile, and crucially, boasts an estimated 310 miles of range – a significant advantage over its more powerful sibling. For many American drivers, this combination of admirable performance, extended range, and a slightly more accessible price point makes it an incredibly attractive proposition. It embodies the essence of efficient, yet engaging, luxury electric SUV driving.
Then there’s the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive Polestar 4. With a starting price point of approximately $64,300, this beast unleashes a staggering 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque. The numbers speak for themselves: a blistering 3.7 seconds from 0-62 mph. On paper, it’s a drag-strip hero. Yet, in real-world driving, the gap between the two didn’t feel as vast as the specifications suggest. Both models, sharing a top speed of 124 mph, offer an exhilarating push that’s inherently characteristic of modern EVs. The dual-motor version simply layers on an extra dose of unadulterated, instantaneous power that’s deeply satisfying for those who crave maximum acceleration.
Underpinning both configurations is a robust 100-kilowatt-hour battery, ensuring substantial energy reserves. When it’s time to recharge, the Polestar 4 supports rapid charging at up to 200 kilowatts, minimizing downtime. Crucially for the 2025 American market, NACS ports are standard, future-proofing the vehicle and ensuring seamless access to a rapidly expanding charging infrastructure across the nation. This commitment to an open, reliable charging standard is a significant win for US consumers and a smart move by Polestar.
The Visionary Absence: No Rear Window, Only Innovation
The single most talked-about design element of the Polestar 4 is, without a doubt, the absence of a conventional rear window. Instead, the panoramic glass roof extends all the way down, creating an unbroken, sleek aesthetic. Initially, this concept sparked skepticism; traditionalists raised valid concerns about rear visibility. However, Polestar’s solution is nothing short of brilliant and, dare I say, revolutionary.
In place of physical glass, a roof-mounted, high-definition camera provides a comprehensive, crystal-clear feed to the interior rearview mirror. My experience confirms that this digital view is not only effective but, in many situations, superior to a traditional mirror. It offers an unobstructed, wide-angle perspective free from rear headrests, C-pillars, or even the inevitable accumulation of dust and fingerprints that plague conventional rear windows. During my test drive, the clarity and breadth of vision were genuinely impressive.
Of course, the practicalities of harsh American winters, particularly the thick ice and snow in regions like the Midwest, were immediately brought up. Polestar engineers confidently assured us that the camera’s placement and robust heating elements would mitigate such issues, maintaining functionality even in extreme conditions. This bold choice, as Polestar’s Head of Design Maximilian Missoni explained, was born from a desire to achieve a coupe-like roofline without compromising interior roominess or aerodynamic efficiency – a design challenge where traditionally, “one of those has to give.” Their innovative EV design for the Polestar 4 found a way to have it all, and it’s a testament to the seamless integration of form and function. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a deliberate, functional design choice that rethinks fundamental automotive elements.
An Interior Sanctuary: Where Luxury Meets Sustainability
Stepping inside the Polestar 4, you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of serene comfort and understated luxury. As an expert who evaluates countless automotive interiors, I can confidently say this cabin stands out. The available Bridge of Weir leather seats, with their exquisite feel, heat, and massage functions, elevate the driving experience to truly premium levels. However, what truly impressed me was the commitment to sustainability. The optional Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste using a unique 3D-knitting process, is not only environmentally conscious but also incredibly tactile and visually appealing. This embrace of sustainable automotive interior materials, without sacrificing luxury, positions Polestar at the forefront of responsible design in 2025.
Passenger comfort is also a priority. The rear seats offer a welcome recline function – a direct benefit of the rear-window-free design, allowing for greater structural flexibility. These seats, part of the available Plus pack, also come with heating, a welcome amenity. Rear passengers even get their own small touchscreen to control climate settings and infotainment, though it intelligently avoids distracting video playback.
The front cabin is dominated by a crisp, image-favoring 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen that serves as the nerve center for Polestar’s Google-powered infotainment system. This intuitive interface, leveraging the power of Android Automotive OS, is a significant advantage. Google Maps with its new “live lane guidance” provides enhanced visual cues for optimal lane selection and upcoming turns, even displaying city crosswalks and road signs – a truly next-gen EV technology feature that enhances safety and reduces driver stress. While integrating essential functions like climate vents and, surprisingly, the glovebox door into the touchscreen might challenge some traditionalists, the system’s responsiveness and logical layout make it generally manageable.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked either. Rear-seat headroom is generous, though legroom is adequate rather than expansive. The luggage area is remarkably wide and deep, offering a cavernous 18.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up, complemented by convenient under-floor storage. And yes, in true EV fashion, there’s a frunk for additional secure storage, perfect for charging cables or smaller items.
Driving Dynamics and Advanced Safety: A Seamless Blend
Out on the Texas roads, the Polestar 4’s dynamic road manners were consistently excellent. Despite its curb weight of around 5,192 pounds, the active dampers work in harmony to make the vehicle feel remarkably composed and agile, belying its size. It dives into corners with confidence, maintaining stability and offering a truly engaging driving experience. The four-piston Brembo brakes, standard on the dual-motor version and available as an upgrade, provide phenomenal stopping power and a reassuringly firm pedal feel – a critical component for a performance-oriented SUV. This is a very well-engineered vehicle, with a distinct emphasis on a quiet, refined cabin experience, even at speed.
Polestar also prioritizes safety, equipping the 4 with a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Boasting an array of 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the vehicle offers robust situational awareness, providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. These systems work seamlessly in the background, enhancing both safety and driving convenience, making long journeys less fatiguing and urban navigation more secure. The integration of such sophisticated safety features as standard or widely available options is becoming a benchmark for ADAS features EV in 2025.
The cabin environment, enhanced by the available 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo, is a delightful space to spend time. The audio quality is superb, creating an immersive acoustic experience that truly elevates the journey. (Though, a note for some: AM radio is absent, a growing trend in modern vehicles).
The 2025 Pricing Landscape: Value in a Premium Package
Let’s address the elephant in the room for the US market: pricing. Polestar vehicles have always positioned themselves in the premium segment, and the 4 is no exception. With a fully loaded dual-motor test vehicle reaching around $71,600, it’s a significant investment. However, as an expert, I look beyond the sticker price to the inherent value.
The Polestar 4 justifies its premium tag through its cutting-edge technology, unique design, exhilarating performance, sustainable materials, and a meticulously crafted driving experience. When comparing it to other luxury electric SUV options on the market in 2025 – particularly those from established German marques or other premium EV startups – its pricing becomes more competitive. Buyers in this segment are looking for innovation, exclusivity, and a commitment to future-forward mobility, all of which the Polestar 4 delivers in spades. Furthermore, potential federal or state electric car tax credit 2025 incentives can further soften the financial impact, making it an even more compelling proposition for eligible buyers.
The brand’s identity, while distinct, could benefit from a bit more visual pop to truly stand out in an increasingly crowded luxury EV landscape. However, the true sales breakthrough, as Polestar representatives themselves noted, will come from the driving experience. This is a vehicle that truly shines from behind the wheel. The sheer joy and confidence it inspires during a test drive are powerful motivators.
Polestar’s Ambitious Future: The 4 as a Foundation
The Polestar 4 is not an isolated offering; it’s a crucial piece in a rapidly expanding and ambitious global strategy. Built initially in Hangzhou Bay, China, Polestar wisely expanded production to Busan, South Korea, this year – a strategic move to navigate evolving tariff landscapes. This dual-sourcing approach demonstrates foresight in managing supply chains and cost efficiencies for the global market.
Looking ahead, the Polestar roadmap is packed with exciting developments. The Polestar 5, a sleek four-door electric GT sedan inspired by the stunning Precept concept car, is slated for a European launch later this year. Following that, the Polestar 6, a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” promises exhilarating performance, though its release date remains fluid. Both the 5 and 6 are expected to be built in China, leveraging established manufacturing expertise.
Further down the line, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV due in 2028, will aim to be smaller and potentially more accessible than the Polestar 3, though not a replacement for the 2. This model will be built in Europe, at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, highlighting Polestar’s evolving manufacturing diversification and global footprint.
Throughout this expansion, Polestar remains steadfast in its commitment as a battery electric-only brand. They’ve explored plug-in hybrids but have consciously chosen to focus solely on pure EVs, a clear signal of their dedication to a zero-emission future. With sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025 across its 28 global markets, Polestar is clearly gaining traction, and the Polestar 4 is undoubtedly a key driver of this success. This aggressive product pipeline confirms Polestar’s vision for the future of electric vehicles, offering a diverse portfolio to meet varying consumer needs.
The Polestar 4: A New Benchmark for 2025
From my vantage point with a decade of immersion in the EV market, the Polestar 4 represents a significant leap forward. It’s a vehicle that skillfully bridges the gap between high-performance electric motoring and everyday usability, all wrapped in a package that dares to be different. Its unique design, exceptional driving dynamics, advanced technology integration (especially the seamless Google ecosystem), and commitment to sustainable luxury materials make it a standout choice in the fiercely competitive 2025 American EV landscape.
The Polestar 4 isn’t just adapting to the future; it’s actively shaping it. It offers a sophisticated, thrilling, and responsible driving experience that is genuinely fresh and exciting.
Ready to experience the future of electric driving? We invite you to explore the groundbreaking Polestar 4 for yourself. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive today to truly understand what sets this innovative electric SUV apart. Discover the thrill of driving with no rear window, just pure, unadulterated performance and cutting-edge design. Your next adventure awaits.
