Polestar 4: A 2025 Deep Dive into the EV That Dares to Redefine the Rear View
As we navigate the dynamic landscape of the automotive world in late 2025, one vehicle
has consistently sparked conversation, challenged conventions, and ultimately solidified its position as a genuine innovator: the Polestar 4. Having spent a decade immersed in the electric vehicle revolution, witnessing countless iterations of design and engineering, I can confidently say that the Polestar 4 isn’t just another entrant in the burgeoning luxury electric SUV segment; it’s a statement. A bold, electrifying statement that bridges exhilarating performance with thoughtful practicality, all while introducing a design choice that initially raised eyebrows but has, in practice, proven to be a stroke of genius.
The Polestar 4, a D-segment performance SUV, has finally made its significant foray into the US and Canadian markets, following its earlier debut in Europe. Positioned ingeniously between the sleek Polestar 2 sedan and the robust Polestar 3 SUV in terms of both dimensions and design philosophy, it enters a competitive arena where contenders like the Porsche Macan EV, BMW iX, and Audi Q8 e-tron vie for discerning drivers’ attention. But the Polestar 4 isn’t merely vying for attention; it’s commanding it, largely due to its unique identity and Polestar’s unwavering commitment to an all-electric, performance-oriented future.
Redefining Visibility: The Rear Window Revolution
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the absence of a rear window. This is undoubtedly the Polestar 4’s most distinguishing and, initially, most controversial design element. In an age where automotive innovation often feels incremental, Polestar has genuinely pushed boundaries by extending its panoramic glass roof seamlessly to the rear, foregoing a traditional rear windscreen entirely. This bold move, replicated on the forthcoming Polestar 5, isn’t a mere aesthetic whim; it’s a meticulously engineered solution that profoundly impacts design, aerodynamics, and interior comfort.
From an expert perspective, the implementation of a high-definition, roof-mounted, rearward-facing camera feeding a crystal-clear display to the rearview mirror location is nothing short of brilliant. My initial skepticism, shared by many industry peers, quickly dissipated during extensive testing. The camera provides an unencumbered, wide-angle view, often superior to a traditional mirror, especially when the vehicle is laden with cargo or passengers. Concerns about adverse weather conditions, such as the thick ice common in colder climates, have been addressed by Polestar engineers, who assure us the system is robust and reliable. This re-imagining of the rear view is a testament to Polestar’s Head of Design, Maximilian Missoni’s vision: to achieve optimal interior spaciousness, exceptional aerodynamics, and an unobstructed rear view without compromise. It’s an elegant solution that liberates cabin architecture, contributing to both the vehicle’s stunning aesthetics and its remarkable coefficient of drag. This design choice also subtly enhances security, as there’s no direct line of sight into the cargo area from behind. This isn’t just future-proofing; it’s present-proofing automotive design.
Performance and Practicality: A Symphony of Power and Range
Underneath its strikingly sculpted exterior, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling blend of power and efficiency, catering to diverse driving preferences. Drivers can choose between two potent electric powertrains: a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration and a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant.
The single-motor Polestar 4, a surprisingly engaging package, is powered by a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, delivering a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While its 0-62 mph time of 6.9 seconds might not set new records, the immediate torque delivery inherent to EVs ensures spirited acceleration and confident merging maneuvers. Crucially, this variant also boasts an impressive estimated range of 310 miles, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing longer journeys and slightly more accessible premium EV pricing, which starts around $57,800.
For the true performance enthusiasts, the dual-motor AWD version elevates the experience significantly. With a formidable 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, this variant slashes the 0-62 mph sprint to a breathtaking 3.7 seconds. While the raw numbers suggest a vast difference, both cars exude an inherent alacrity and responsiveness that often makes the perceived gap feel smaller in everyday driving. Both configurations share a top speed of 124 mph, ensuring ample performance for highway cruising.
At the heart of both Polestar 4 variants is a sophisticated 100-kilowatt-hour battery, engineered for both impressive range and rapid recharging. The vehicle supports fast charging at up to 200 kilowatts, allowing for quick top-ups on compatible DC fast chargers. Furthermore, in a proactive move to enhance the American EV charging ecosystem, Polestar has embraced the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports, signaling a seamless charging experience for future owners as the network expands rapidly across the continent. This decision significantly de-risks range anxiety for many potential buyers, positioning the Polestar 4 as a practical choice for long-distance electric travel.
During my extensive test drives through the winding roads of the Texas hill country, the dual-motor Polestar 4 proved to be an absolute revelation. Despite its curb weight of 5,192 pounds, the active dampers and finely tuned chassis dynamics allowed the vehicle to dive into corners with unexpected agility and composure, belying its substantial stature. The four-piston Brembo brakes, a hallmark of performance vehicles, provided reassuringly strong and consistent stopping power, reinforcing the Polestar 4’s claim as a true driver’s SUV. The cabin remained impressively quiet, a testament to its exceptional engineering and insulation, making for a serene driving environment even at speed. Polestar’s team, led by product identity expert Christian Samson, aimed to “shrink the car, to make it feel lighter” and achieve a 300-mile range. Mission, unequivocally, accomplished.
A Sanctuary of Innovation: Interior Design and Advanced Technology
Stepping inside the Polestar 4, it’s immediately apparent that luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology converge to create a truly inviting and intuitive space. Polestar has always championed minimalist Scandinavian design, and the 4 elevates this philosophy with a focus on premium, environmentally conscious materials and intelligent integration.
The available Bridge of Weir leather seats exemplify luxury, offering heating and massage functions that transform long journeys into therapeutic experiences. For those seeking an even more sustainable option, the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 3D-knitted PET plastic waste, provides an equally comfortable and tactile experience, showcasing Polestar’s commitment to circularity without compromising on aesthetics or quality. The thoughtful design extends to the rear cabin, where reclining rear seats – a direct benefit of the absence of a rear window – and available heating offer unparalleled passenger comfort. Rear occupants also benefit from a dedicated small screen to control climate and infotainment, adding a layer of personalized convenience that is increasingly expected in premium EVs.
The centerpiece of the digital experience is the generously sized 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen, which dominates the center stack. Powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, this intuitive interface seamlessly integrates Google Maps with innovative live lane guidance, providing enhanced visual cues for turns, displaying city crosswalks, and optimizing route planning. While the system is generally excellent, some ergonomic choices, such as touch-controlled vents and, perhaps most surprisingly, the glovebox door, might take a slight adjustment period for drivers accustomed to physical buttons. However, the overall user experience is fluid and highly customizable. Complementing the central screen is a crisp 10.2-inch driver’s instrument panel, displaying essential information with clarity and precision, including real-time range estimates. Adding a touch of playful personality, a customizable screensaver featuring a charming robot dog that proclaims “my owner will be back soon” brings a smile to those peering into the cabin.
The cabin is also a delightful auditory space, especially when equipped with the optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system. This premium audio setup transforms the interior into a concert hall on wheels, delivering rich, immersive sound that makes every drive an experience. While some might lament the absence of AM radio (a growing trend in EVs), the vast array of digital audio options more than compensates.
Safety and driver assistance are paramount in the Polestar 4. The vehicle bristles with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), featuring an impressive array of 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. This comprehensive sensor suite underpins functionalities such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, working in concert to provide a safer, more relaxed driving experience. This robust ADAS package not only enhances occupant protection but also serves as a crucial step towards the autonomous driving capabilities that will define the next generation of electric vehicles.
Pricing and Market Dynamics: Navigating the Premium EV Segment
The Polestar 4 enters the market with a starting price that reflects its premium positioning and advanced technology. The single-motor RWD variant begins at a competitive $57,800, while the dual-motor AWD version starts at $64,300. Fully optioned, a dual-motor model can reach approximately $71,600. In the increasingly crowded 2025 premium electric SUV landscape, these figures place the Polestar 4 squarely against formidable rivals.
While Polestar’s pricing has historically been perceived as relatively stiff by some, the brand firmly believes that the true value proposition of the Polestar 4 shines through in the driving experience. As Christian Samson aptly put it, “the test drives will make the sale.” This sentiment holds considerable weight. The combination of its innovative design, exhilarating performance, luxurious and sustainable interior, and advanced technology creates a compelling package that justifies its price point for the discerning buyer. In a market saturated with EVs, the Polestar 4 offers a distinctive alternative, appealing to those who prioritize cutting-edge design and a truly unique driving proposition. Its sales performance in the first three quarters of 2025, showing growth in 28 markets globally, indicates that this strategy is resonating with consumers.
Global Manufacturing and Polestar’s Vision for the Future
To support its global ambitions and navigate complex trade landscapes, Polestar has strategically diversified its manufacturing footprint. Initially built at the Hangzhou Bay plant in China, production of the Polestar 4 has expanded to Busan, South Korea, starting this year. This decision to leverage South Korean manufacturing is largely tariff-related, capitalizing on a more favorable 15% tariff rate following recent trade agreements – a clear demonstration of Polestar’s agility in adapting to geopolitical realities to deliver value to its global customer base.
Looking beyond the Polestar 4, the brand’s future roadmap is equally ambitious and exciting. The Polestar 5, a sleek four-door electric GT sedan inspired by the stunning Precept concept car, is slated for a late 2025 launch in Europe, promising to redefine grand touring for the electric era. Following that, the Polestar 6, a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” is anticipated, though a clear release date remains under wraps. Both the 5 and 6 are likely to be manufactured in China.
Further solidifying its lineup, the Polestar 7 is a two-row SUV expected by 2028. Positioned to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, but not a direct replacement for the 2, it underscores Polestar’s commitment to offering a diverse range of premium electric vehicles. Notably, the Polestar 7 will be built in Europe, specifically at a Volvo plant in Slovakia, another strategic move to optimize production and distribution. This global manufacturing strategy not only enhances efficiency but also insulates the brand from potential supply chain disruptions. Polestar’s unwavering dedication to being a battery-electric-only brand, having consciously decided against pursuing plug-in hybrids, reinforces its clear vision for sustainable, high-performance mobility.
The Verdict: A Bold Step Forward
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new electric SUV; it’s a testament to audacious design, thoughtful engineering, and a clear vision for the future of premium electric mobility. Its controversial rear-window-less design proves to be an innovative strength, enhancing aerodynamics, interior space, and driver visibility through cutting-edge camera technology. Coupled with its potent performance, impressive range, luxurious and sustainable interior, and advanced safety features, the Polestar 4 confidently stakes its claim in the competitive 2025 EV market. It’s a vehicle that feels lighter and more agile than its footprint suggests, achieving its mission of delivering a genuinely engaging and practical electric driving experience.
For those ready to embrace the next generation of automotive innovation, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling blend of excitement and elegance. It’s not just driving; it’s experiencing the future, today.
Are you ready to experience the innovative design and exhilarating performance of the Polestar 4 for yourself? Explore the full range of features, configure your ideal electric SUV, and schedule a test drive at your nearest Polestar Space to truly understand what makes this vehicle a game-changer.
