The Polestar 4: A 2025 Deep Dive into Design, Performance, and the Future of Electric Luxury
From my vantage point, having closely tracked the evolution of the elec
tric vehicle market for over a decade, the arrival of a new model from Polestar always warrants a focused examination. In late 2025, as the automotive landscape continues its rapid electrification, the Polestar 4 makes its highly anticipated debut on US roads, promising a unique blend of cutting-edge innovation and exhilarating performance. This isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a bold statement, a re-imagination of form and function that challenges conventional automotive wisdom.
As an expert who has witnessed the nascent stages of EV adoption mature into a competitive, innovation-driven industry, I can confidently say the Polestar 4 is positioned right at the bleeding edge. It bridges the gap between the compact, crossover-esque Polestar 2 and the larger, more traditional Polestar 3 SUV, effectively carving out its own niche as a D-segment performance SUV – think Porsche Macan EV territory, but with a distinct Scandinavian minimalist flair. This strategic placement ensures Polestar captures a broader segment of the luxury electric SUV market, a segment ripe for disruption and demanding increasingly sophisticated offerings.
A Visionary Design: The Rear Window Reimagined
Perhaps the most talked-about and genuinely radical aspect of the Polestar 4’s design is its deliberate omission of a traditional rear window. In a world often content with incremental changes, this is a profound leap. For those of us who appreciate the art of automotive design and its interplay with engineering, this decision by Maximilian Missoni’s team is more than just a stylistic flourish; it’s a fully integrated solution to a complex challenge.
Conventional coupe-style SUVs often compromise on either rear passenger headroom, aerodynamic efficiency, or rear visibility to achieve their sleek silhouettes. Polestar, however, wasn’t willing to accept such trade-offs. Their solution? A high-definition, roof-mounted rear-facing camera that feeds a crystal-clear, comprehensive live view to the rearview mirror screen inside the cabin.
My initial skepticism, common among seasoned observers, quickly dissolved after experiencing it firsthand. The clarity, the wide field of vision, and the absence of physical obstructions (like rear headrests or thick C-pillars) genuinely enhance the rearward perspective. It’s an embrace of next-generation automotive design principles, leveraging technology to overcome physical limitations. The concern about a camera lens obscuring in extreme weather, particularly for those of us enduring harsh Midwestern winters, was met with Polestar’s assurance of robust engineering and heating elements designed to mitigate such issues. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a practical, elegant redefinition of the driver’s interface with their surroundings, indicative of where intelligent vehicle design is heading.
Performance That Electrifies: Single vs. Dual Motor Dynamics
Beneath its striking exterior, the Polestar 4 is engineered for performance that truly engages. Available in both single and dual-motor configurations, it offers a spectrum of driving experiences, each compelling in its own right. Having put both versions through their paces, the nuances become apparent.
The rear-wheel-drive single-motor variant, delivering a healthy 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque from its 200-kilowatt permanent-magnet motor, is surprisingly agile and responsive. While its 0-62 mph sprint of 6.9 seconds might not set new records in the high-performance EV realm, its instant torque delivery makes for confident city driving and capable highway merges. Crucially, this setup offers an impressive estimated range of 310 miles, a significant advantage for those prioritizing endurance. The slightly lighter curb weight also contributes to a more nimble feel, making it an attractive option for the discerning driver who values efficiency without sacrificing the inherent zest of an EV. Furthermore, its starting price of approximately $57,800 makes it a more accessible entry into the premium EV performance segment.
However, for enthusiasts craving unadulterated power, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive Polestar 4 is an absolute marvel. With a potent 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, it rockets from 0-62 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds. This kind of acceleration places it firmly among the elite high-performance EV contenders, offering an adrenalizing surge that’s characteristic of top-tier electric vehicles. While its estimated range settles at 280 miles, the trade-off for such explosive power is, for many, entirely justified. Both configurations share a 100-kilowatt-hour battery and can leverage electric vehicle fast charging at rates up to 200 kilowatts, minimizing downtime. The integration of NACS ports as standard further future-proofs the vehicle, aligning it with the rapidly expanding charging infrastructure across North America.
On the winding roads of the Texas Hill Country, the dual-motor Polestar 4 showcased exceptional dynamic manners. Its active dampers deftly managed the vehicle’s considerable 5,192-pound curb weight, allowing it to dive into corners with surprising composure and minimal body roll. The four-piston Brembo brakes, consistently a hallmark of performance, provided reassuringly strong and predictable stopping power. What truly resonated was the cabin’s tranquility – a testament to superior sound insulation and aerodynamic refinement. This is a very well-engineered SUV that feels lighter and more agile than its specifications might suggest, making every drive an engaging experience.
An Interior Sanctuary: Technology, Comfort, and Sustainable Luxury
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you enter a cabin designed as a genuine sanctuary. The interior exudes a minimalist yet luxurious ambiance, characteristic of Polestar’s Scandinavian roots. Comfort is paramount, with available Bridge of Weir leather seats offering heating and massage functions – a welcome indulgence on longer journeys. For the environmentally conscious, Polestar offers an innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from recycled PET plastic waste using 3D-knitting techniques. This commitment to sustainable luxury vehicles is not just a marketing slogan; it’s a tangible effort to reduce environmental impact without compromising on tactile quality or aesthetic appeal.
The rear seats benefit directly from the lack of a traditional rear window, allowing for an expansive panoramic glass roof that extends further back, enhancing interior roominess and light. They also recline and heat up with the available Plus Pack, and passengers gain access to a dedicated small screen for climate and infotainment controls – a thoughtful touch for rear-seat comfort, even if it doesn’t stream movies.
At the heart of the dashboard lies a striking 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen. This Google-centric system provides seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and a vast ecosystem of apps. For 2025, the Polestar 4 introduces live lane guidance within Google Maps, offering enhanced visual cues for turns, displaying city crosswalks, and road signs for optimized navigation – a significant stride in connected car technology. While the large screen capably handles many functions, some traditional controls, like air vents and even the glovebox door, have been migrated to the touchscreen. While aesthetically clean, this digital-first approach occasionally demands a brief learning curve or a momentary distraction from the road, a common observation across the modern automotive industry.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. Rear-seat headroom is generous, though legroom, while adequate, isn’t as expansive as some larger SUVs. The cargo area is commendably wide and cavernous, featuring convenient under-floor storage, all easily accessible via a powered tailgate. With the seats up, it offers 18.6 cubic feet of capacity, complemented by a usable “frunk” for additional storage.
Beyond comfort and connectivity, the Polestar 4 integrates a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) EV features. Boasting 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, it provides a comprehensive safety net, offering everything from adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to advanced parking aids. The commitment to autonomous driving features EV is clearly evident in this robust hardware suite, setting the stage for future capabilities. And for a touch of whimsy, a robot dog screensaver that proclaims “my owner will be back soon” provides a humorous, personal touch.
The audio experience is equally premium. The 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo, part of the premium pack, fills the quiet cabin with rich, immersive sound. The noticeable absence of AM radio, a growing trend across the industry, reflects the shift towards digital audio sources and streaming platforms.
Market Position, Pricing, and the Road Ahead
With a starting price of $57,800 for the single-motor RWD and $64,300 for the dual-motor AWD, the Polestar 4 is undeniably positioned in the premium segment. A fully loaded dual-motor model, as I tested, can easily push past $70,000. This pricing strategy places it in direct competition with established luxury brands and increasingly sophisticated EV rivals. While its striking design and advanced technology are compelling, Polestar’s challenge in the US market remains convincing a broader audience of its value proposition against more familiar names.
Christian Samson, who leads Polestar’s product identity, articulated the goal with the Polestar 4: “to shrink the car, to make it feel lighter,” and to achieve a 300-mile range. Having driven it, I can confirm they’ve largely succeeded. The car feels dynamically light on its feet, and the range targets are met or exceeded. The driving experience, more than any spec sheet, will be the true sales catalyst. This vehicle needs to be experienced to be fully appreciated.
Looking to the future, Polestar’s commitment to being a battery-electric-only brand is unwavering. The brand’s strategic roadmap, as we move into late 2025 and beyond, is ambitious and clear:
Polestar 5: A sleek, speedy four-door electric GT sedan, directly inspired by the Precept concept car, is slated for a European launch later this year, with US availability following shortly after. It represents Polestar’s push into the luxury grand touring segment.
Polestar 6: This two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification” promises exhilarating performance and emotional design. While a clear release date remains elusive, it signifies Polestar’s ambition to create halo products that push the boundaries of electric performance. Both the 5 and 6 are expected to be built in China, where Polestar has established robust manufacturing capabilities.
Polestar 7: Due in 2028, this two-row SUV will be positioned as a more compact and potentially more affordable option than the Polestar 3, without replacing the Polestar 2. Its planned production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia highlights Polestar’s evolving global manufacturing strategy, driven partly by tariff considerations and market proximity.
This multi-pronged approach demonstrates a brand that is not just launching individual vehicles but building a comprehensive, globally integrated product ecosystem. Polestar’s recorded “sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025” across its 28 active markets is a testament to the increasing acceptance and demand for its distinctive offerings.
The Verdict: A Bold Step Forward
The Polestar 4 isn’t just a new car; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to Polestar’s audacious vision for the future of electric mobility, blending cutting-edge EV battery technology with truly innovative design and a palpable driving passion. Its striking aesthetics, particularly the controversial yet brilliantly executed rear window-less design, ensure it stands out in an increasingly crowded market. Its performance capabilities, sustainable interior materials, and advanced Google-integrated technology package make it a compelling choice for the discerning buyer seeking a premium, forward-thinking electric SUV.
As the market continues to evolve, the Polestar 4 represents a significant benchmark. It offers a sophisticated, engaging, and genuinely fresh perspective on what an electric luxury vehicle can be in 2025. It’s an EV that demands attention and, more importantly, a test drive.
Experience the future of electric driving today. Discover the revolutionary design and exhilarating performance of the Polestar 4. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a personalized test drive to truly understand why this vehicle is redefining the luxury electric SUV landscape.
