Polestar 4 Redefines the American EV Landscape with Bold Innovation and Electrifying Performance
As we navigate the dynamic terrain of the 2025 automotive market, a
truly distinctive electric vehicle has arrived to challenge conventions and capture imaginations: the Polestar 4. Having spent a decade immersed in the evolution of sustainable mobility and high-performance electric vehicles, I can confidently state that Polestar’s latest offering isn’t merely another EV SUV; it’s a statement piece, a meticulously engineered machine that masterfully blends cutting-edge technology, exhilarating driving dynamics, and a design philosophy so audacious it might just redefine what we expect from a premium electric car.
Positioned deftly between the Polestar 2 sedan-crossover and the larger Polestar 3 SUV, the Polestar 4 carves out its own niche in the highly competitive D-segment. It’s an electric performance SUV designed for those who seek not just zero emissions, but also uncompromising style and a driving experience that genuinely excites. With a starting price point in the mid-$50,000s, escalating into the low $70,000s for more equipped dual-motor variants, the Polestar 4 isn’t just vying for a slice of the luxury EV pie; it’s aiming to bake a completely new one. Its arrival on American roads marks a significant moment, promising a fresh perspective in an arena increasingly populated by the familiar.
The Power Beneath the Progressive Design: Performance That Thrills
From the moment you engage the Polestar 4, its performance capabilities are undeniable. Polestar offers two distinct powertrain configurations, each delivering a compelling argument for its existence. The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive variant, a configuration that’s becoming increasingly popular for its balance of efficiency and spirited driving, delivers a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of instant torque from its 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor. While its 0-60 mph sprint of 6.9 seconds might not set records, the real-world responsiveness and accessible power make it incredibly engaging, particularly when navigating city streets or cruising highways. Crucially for the 2025 market, this variant also boasts an impressive estimated range of 310 miles, addressing one of the primary concerns for many prospective EV owners.
However, for those craving unadulterated acceleration and maximum power, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive Polestar 4 is the star of the show. With a combined output of 544 horsepower and a staggering 504 lb-ft of torque, this variant transforms the electric SUV into a true performance machine, catapulting from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds. Having put countless high-performance electric cars through their paces, I can attest that this level of instant torque EV performance is not just a number on a spec sheet; it translates into a visceral, grin-inducing experience every time you press the accelerator. Both versions cap their top speed at a respectable 124 mph, a sensible limit for an electric SUV that prioritizes real-world usability and efficiency.
Powering these impressive drivetrains is a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery, engineered for both range and rapid replenishment. In an era where charging convenience is paramount, the Polestar 4 supports DC fast charging at up to 200 kilowatts, allowing for quick top-ups on longer journeys. Furthermore, Polestar’s foresight in adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports as part of the package ensures seamless compatibility with the expanding Tesla Supercharger network, a critical advantage for alleviating range anxiety and enhancing the overall EV charging infrastructure experience for American drivers in 2025 and beyond.
On the road, particularly through the twists and turns of Texas Hill Country where I first experienced its capabilities, the Polestar 4 in dual-motor guise displayed impeccable road manners. Despite its curb weight tipping the scales at over 5,100 pounds, the vehicle felt remarkably agile, diving into corners with an eagerness that belied its size. This is largely thanks to its finely tuned chassis and available active dampers, which provide a compelling blend of ride comfort and dynamic control. The four-piston Brembo brakes, known for their exceptional stopping power and consistent performance, instilled confidence, allowing for aggressive driving when desired. This is a very well-engineered and exceptionally quiet luxury electric vehicle, proving that performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of refinement.
A Rear Window Redefined: Visionary Design Meets Practical Innovation
Perhaps the most discussed—and occasionally controversial—design element of the Polestar 4 is the deliberate omission of a traditional rear window. Instead, the panoramic glass roof extends down to meet the tailgate, creating an uninterrupted, sleek roofline that significantly enhances aerodynamic efficiency and contributes to the car’s distinctive coupe-SUV silhouette. This bold move, also slated for the forthcoming Polestar 5, immediately raises questions about rearward visibility, a crucial safety aspect in any vehicle.
However, Polestar’s engineering team, led by Head of Design Maximilian Missoni, has delivered an ingenious solution: a high-definition, roof-mounted, rear-facing camera that feeds a crystal-clear, comprehensive live view to the rear-view mirror display inside the cabin. From my expert vantage point, having tested numerous digital mirror systems, this solution works exceptionally well in practice. It provides a wider, unobstructed field of vision compared to a conventional mirror, eliminating blind spots caused by headrests or rear pillars, and offering superior clarity in low-light conditions.
Naturally, the question of environmental factors arises—specifically, the Midwestern journalist’s valid concern about thick ice and snow obscuring the camera in winter. Polestar representatives confidently asserted that the camera system is designed with robust heating elements and hydrophobic coatings to manage such challenges. While only prolonged real-world testing will definitively answer this, the initial implementation suggests a well-considered approach. Missoni eloquently articulated the design dilemma: balancing interior roominess, aerodynamics, and rear visibility in a coupe-style roof. The digital rear-view mirror, he explained, was the answer to avoiding compromise, a testament to Polestar’s commitment to technically achievable and perfectly legal innovation. This is precisely the kind of forward-thinking design that sets a premium EV SUV apart in a crowded market.
Interior Sanctum: Luxury, Sustainability, and Intuitive Technology
Stepping inside the Polestar 4 reveals a cabin that is both overtly luxurious and subtly sustainable, reflecting the brand’s commitment to eco-conscious design without sacrificing premium feel. The available Bridge of Weir leather seats, with their exquisite heat and massage functions, offer sublime comfort on long journeys. For those with an even keener eye towards environmental responsibility, the innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 3D-knitted PET plastic waste, presents an equally appealing and surprisingly sophisticated alternative. This attention to detail in sustainable materials is a hallmark of truly cutting-edge EV technology in 2025.
Rear seat passengers are treated to unexpected levels of comfort and convenience. The rear seats recline—a direct benefit of the rear window-free design, allowing for more expansive head and shoulder room—and also offer heating functionality as part of the available Plus pack. A dedicated small screen allows rear occupants to control climate settings and infotainment functions, though it wisely avoids full-blown video playback to minimize driver distraction. While rear-seat headroom is generous, legroom felt a touch less expansive for taller adults, though still perfectly adequate for most journeys.
The focal point of the cabin’s technology suite is the striking 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen that dominates the center stack. This high-resolution display serves as the nerve center for Polestar’s Android Automotive OS-based infotainment system, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience powered by Google. Integration with Google Maps is deep, featuring innovative live lane guidance that wasn’t available on initial test vehicles but promises to revolutionize navigation. This guidance system provides real-time lane recommendations for optimized routes, enhanced visual cues for upcoming turns, and even displays city crosswalks and road signs, moving beyond simple turn-by-turn directions to provide augmented reality navigation elements.
However, as an expert who values tactile feedback, I must offer a minor critique: while the screen is gorgeous and responsive, entrusting control of basic functions like climate vents and, astonishingly, the glovebox door to a touchscreen interface can be less intuitive and potentially distracting than dedicated physical controls. This is a common trend across the industry, and while often lauded for minimalism, it sometimes compromises usability. On a lighter note, the addition of a screensaver featuring a robot dog proclaiming “my owner will be back soon” adds a whimsical, distinctly Polestar touch.
The driver’s instrument panel is a crisp 10.2-inch digital display, providing essential driving information with clarity and precision. On my test drives, it accurately reflected an available range of 288 miles from a 95% charge, aligning perfectly with Polestar’s commitment to transparent and reliable battery metrics.
Safety and driver assistance are paramount in modern luxury electric vehicles, and the Polestar 4 is bristling with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Equipped with an array of 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the vehicle offers comprehensive situational awareness, paving the way for advanced semi-autonomous driving capabilities. This robust sensor suite not only enhances safety through features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring but also forms the foundation for future over-the-air updates that could unlock even more sophisticated functionalities.
No premium cabin is complete without a stellar audio experience, and the Polestar 4 delivers with an optional 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system. As part of the premium pack, this system fills the quiet cabin with rich, immersive sound, making every journey a concert. The absence of AM radio, while a growing trend across the industry, is a minor omission for most modern drivers who rely on digital streaming.
The Polestar 4’s Place in the 2025 Market: Pricing, Competition, and Value
The question on every discerning buyer’s mind in 2025 is value. With a base price starting around $56,400 for the single-motor RWD variant and climbing to over $71,600 for a fully loaded dual-motor AWD, the Polestar 4 positions itself squarely in the premium EV SUV segment. This puts it in direct contention with formidable rivals such as the Porsche Macan EV, Tesla Model Y Performance, BMW iX, and the Audi Q8 e-tron.
While its styling, with its sleek lines and unique lighting signatures, is undoubtedly sophisticated, some argue it could be even sharper to stand out further in an increasingly crowded segment. However, where the Polestar 4 truly shines is from the driver’s seat. Its blend of engaging dynamics, advanced technology, and refined comfort makes the case for its premium pricing. This is a vehicle where the test drive makes the sale, showcasing a holistic package that justifies the investment.
In terms of federal EV tax credits, the Polestar 4’s manufacturing strategy presents a nuanced picture. Initially built at a plant in Hangzhou Bay, China, and commencing production in Busan, South Korea this year, the vehicle’s eligibility for US federal tax credits may vary. The decision to expand production to South Korea was largely tariff-related, leveraging a recent trade agreement that imposes a more favorable 15% tariff, compared to the potentially higher duties on Chinese-made vehicles. This strategic manufacturing diversification highlights the complex geopolitical and economic considerations influencing the global EV market in 2025.
Polestar’s Vision for the Future: A Pure Electric Trajectory
Polestar remains steadfast in its commitment to being a purely battery-electric brand. Christian Samson, who heads the Polestar product identity team, emphasized the brand’s unwavering focus on EVs, having deliberately sidestepped the plug-in hybrid concept. This singular vision has allowed Polestar to concentrate its resources on refining electric powertrains, battery technology, and charging solutions, building a robust EV charging infrastructure ecosystem for its clientele. With a presence in 28 markets globally and reporting significant sales growth in the first three quarters of 2025, Polestar’s strategy appears to be yielding positive results.
The Polestar 4 is just one chapter in an exciting, expanding narrative. Looking ahead, the brand has an ambitious pipeline of innovative electric vehicles:
Polestar 5: A sleek, speedy four-door electric GT sedan, directly inspired by the stunning Precept concept car, slated for a European launch later this year. This high-performance electric car promises to push boundaries in design and dynamic capability, offering a luxurious grand touring experience.
Polestar 6: An evocative two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” embodying Polestar’s passion for exhilarating driving. While a clear release date is still pending, it represents the brand’s commitment to pure electric driving pleasure.
Polestar 7: A two-row SUV due in 2028, designed to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3, without replacing the Polestar 2. Crucially, the Polestar 7 will be built in Europe, specifically at a Volvo plant in Slovakia. This European manufacturing pivot is another strategic move, potentially mitigating tariff challenges and diversifying the brand’s global footprint.
These upcoming models, each with a distinct identity and purpose, underscore Polestar’s long-term vision to offer a comprehensive range of premium electric vehicles, cementing its position as a leading innovator in sustainable luxury.
The Road Ahead
The Polestar 4 is more than just a new electric SUV; it’s a bold declaration of intent from a brand that refuses to conform. Its daring design, particularly the re-imagined rear visibility, showcases a willingness to innovate where others hesitate. Its performance, whether in single or dual-motor guise, is undeniably engaging, while its interior coddles with sustainable luxury and advanced, Google-powered technology.
As the EV market continues its rapid expansion in 2025, the Polestar 4 stands out as a unique proposition, particularly for those who value cutting-edge design and a truly driver-centric experience. It’s a compelling blend of practicality and panache, a vehicle that proves that electric mobility can be both responsible and exhilarating.
Are you ready to experience the future of driving? We invite you to discover the innovative design, electrifying performance, and sustainable luxury of the Polestar 4 for yourself. Visit your nearest Polestar Space or schedule a test drive today to truly understand what sets this groundbreaking electric performance SUV apart.
