Polestar 4: Redefining the Luxury EV SUV for 2025 with Bold Innovation and Electrifying Performance
After a decade immersed in the pulsating heart of the automotive
industry, particularly witnessing the exponential rise of electric vehicles, it’s rare for a new model to genuinely surprise me. Yet, as we step firmly into 2025, Polestar has once again proven its prowess, delivering a vehicle that isn’t just an incremental update but a bold declaration of intent. The Polestar 4, an electric D-segment performance SUV, has finally landed on US roads, and it’s poised to disrupt the premium EV segment with a blend of audacious design, exhilarating performance, and a meticulously crafted sustainable luxury experience.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel and poring over its engineering nuances, I can confidently say the Polestar 4 is far more than just another electric SUV. It represents a forward-thinking vision for automotive design and technology, particularly with its most talked-about feature: the complete absence of a traditional rear window. This isn’t a gimmick; it’s a profound re-imagining of occupant experience and vehicle aesthetics, backed by smart engineering.
A Vision Without a Window: The Audacious Design Philosophy of the Polestar 4
Let’s tackle the elephant in the room first: the Polestar 4 has no rear window. Yes, you read that correctly. For many, this will be an immediate point of contention, perhaps even a deal-breaker. But as an expert who has seen countless design evolutions and iterations, I urge you to look closer. This isn’t a cost-cutting measure or a frivolous aesthetic choice; it’s a deliberate, well-executed engineering solution that unlocks a cascade of benefits.
From a purely aesthetic standpoint, the panoramic glass roof extending seamlessly to the rear gives the Polestar 4 an incredibly sleek, coupe-like silhouette that perfectly encapsulates its “performance SUV” moniker. This design choice dramatically improves aerodynamics, a critical factor for extending electric vehicle range. In the fiercely competitive luxury electric SUV 2025 market, where every mile counts, such an aerodynamic advantage is invaluable.
The practical concern, of course, revolves around rear visibility. Polestar’s solution is elegant and effective: a roof-mounted, high-definition rear-facing camera feeds a crystal-clear, wide-angle live image directly to the rearview mirror display inside the cabin. My initial skepticism quickly dissolved after experiencing it firsthand. The camera offers an unobstructed, wider field of view than any conventional mirror, eliminating blind spots caused by headrests, rear passengers, or bulky cargo. It’s a testament to how intelligent integration of innovative EV design can solve traditional automotive challenges.
Concerns about weather conditions, such as ice or snow accumulation in colder climates, have been anticipated. Polestar engineers assured us that the camera lens is strategically placed and equipped with heating elements and hydrophobic coatings, similar to modern backup cameras, to ensure functionality in adverse conditions. This level of foresight is what separates truly innovative design from mere novelty. This design allows for more rear headroom and a more expansive, airy cabin feel, particularly for rear passengers who typically contend with encroaching rooflines in coupe-SUVs. It’s a masterclass in balancing form, function, and futuristic vision, setting a new benchmark for premium electric vehicle market entrants.
Power and Poise: The Driving Dynamics That Define the Polestar 4
Beneath its avant-garde exterior, the Polestar 4 is a formidable performer, perfectly bridging the gap between an exhilarating sports car and a practical family hauler. It offers two distinct powertrain configurations, both utilizing a robust 100 kWh battery pack and capable of rapid DC fast charging at up to 200 kW, with the increasingly vital NACS port integration for seamless access to the expanding EV charging network NACS across the US.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive variant delivers a healthy 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While its 0-62 mph sprint of 6.9 seconds might not set new records, the instantaneous torque characteristic of EVs makes it feel considerably quicker in real-world driving. Crucially, this setup prioritizes efficiency, achieving an impressive estimated range of 310 miles on a single charge – a figure that significantly alleviates EV range anxiety for many consumers. For everyday commuting and spirited weekend drives, this variant offers an excellent balance of performance and practicality at a more accessible entry point, with the Polestar 4 price USA starting around $57,800.
For those craving unadulterated power, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version is an absolute beast. Pushing out a staggering 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, it rockets from 0-62 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds. This is genuine best performance EV SUV territory, capable of challenging established sports cars. Despite the raw numbers, the power delivery is incredibly smooth and controllable, never feeling unruly. While its estimated range settles at 280 miles, the trade-off for this level of exhilaration is more than justified for driving enthusiasts. Starting around $64,300, the dual-motor model epitomizes high-performance electric motoring. Both versions share a top speed of 124 mph, underscoring their capability.
On the winding roads of Texas Hill Country, the Polestar 4 showcased exceptional dynamic road manners. The chassis felt remarkably composed, and the active dampers ensured a compliant yet engaging ride, effortlessly soaking up road imperfections while maintaining impressive body control through corners. Despite its curb weight tipping the scales at over 5,000 pounds, the car felt surprisingly agile, belying its mass. The four-piston Brembo brakes, a hallmark of performance vehicles, provided confidence-inspiring stopping power, allowing for precise control and spirited driving. This is a very well-engineered, whisper-quiet SUV that truly comes alive when driven, embodying the essence of a premium driving experience.
A Scandinavian Sanctuary: Interior Design and Advanced Technology
Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re greeted by a cabin that exudes Scandinavian minimalism, yet is rich in detail and cutting-edge technology. The design philosophy centers on creating a calming, uncluttered environment, where every element feels purposeful and premium. This is where sustainable automotive interior practices truly shine.
Polestar offers a choice between sumptuous Bridge of Weir leather, known for its ethical sourcing and luxurious feel, and an innovative, environmentally friendly Tailored Knit upholstery. This knit material, made from recycled PET plastic waste, is 3D-knitted to size, reducing waste and offering a unique tactile experience. It’s a forward-thinking approach that resonates strongly with the growing demand for eco-conscious luxury vehicles. Available features like heated and massaging front seats, along with reclining and heated rear seats (a direct benefit of the rear-window-less design), ensure supreme comfort for all occupants, making long journeys a pleasure.
The centerpiece of the cabin is a portrait-oriented 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen that controls the Google-built-in infotainment system. As an experienced user of various in-car systems, I appreciate the intuitive interface and seamless integration of Google Maps with live lane guidance, providing enhanced visual cues and optimal routing – though not yet available on the test cars, its potential for a stress-free commute is clear. A smaller screen for rear passengers allows them to control climate and infotainment, adding another layer of comfort and personalization.
While the large touchscreen manages many functions effectively, Polestar’s decision to integrate controls for even the vents and glovebox into the screen might challenge some traditionalists. As an expert, I acknowledge the aesthetic cleanliness this achieves, but also understand that some physical buttons for frequently used functions can enhance usability and safety, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. It’s a common tension point in modern EV technology interiors that manufacturers are still navigating.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. The luggage area is wide and capacious, offering 18.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, complemented by convenient under-floor storage and a powered tailgate. A front trunk, or “frunk,” provides additional secure storage for charging cables or smaller items.
The Polestar 4 is also bristling with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS features electric car buyers expect), boasting 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. This comprehensive suite contributes to an exceptional safety profile, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a host of preventative safety measures. The premium pack also includes a powerful 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system, transforming the cabin into a private concert hall (though following a recent industry trend, AM radio is absent).
Market Positioning and Polestar’s Expanding Horizon
In the burgeoning electric car market trends 2025, the Polestar 4 slots neatly between the Polestar 2 sedan and the larger Polestar 3 SUV, both in size and pricing. It directly competes with heavyweights like the upcoming Porsche Macan EV, as well as higher-end configurations of the Tesla Model Y. Polestar’s strategy is clear: offer a distinct, performance-oriented, and design-forward alternative in the premium EV space.
The Polestar 4 price USA structure, starting at $57,800 for the single motor and $64,300 for the dual motor, positions it firmly in the luxury segment. While some might consider these prices “hefty,” they are commensurate with the level of engineering, technology, and sustainable luxury offered. Furthermore, potential EV tax credits 2025 could make the Polestar 4 an even more attractive proposition for eligible buyers, a factor that continuously influences the luxury electric car lease deals and purchase decisions in the US.
Manufacturing locations in Hangzhou Bay, China, and now Busan, South Korea (a decision influenced by favorable tariff agreements), highlight Polestar’s global production strategy, aimed at optimizing logistics and managing trade complexities. This global footprint ensures efficiency and adaptability in a dynamic automotive landscape.
Looking beyond the 4, Polestar’s commitment to a fully electric future is unwavering. The speedy four-door electric GT sedan, the Polestar 5 (modeled on the stunning Precept concept), is slated for European launch later this year. The Polestar 6, a two-seat open “sports car for the era of electrification,” promises exhilarating performance for a future release. And looking further ahead to 2028, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV, will be smaller and potentially more accessible than the Polestar 3, designed for European production at a Volvo plant in Slovakia. Polestar remains steadfastly a battery-electric-only brand, eschewing plug-in hybrids, reinforcing its vision for the future of electric cars.
The Expert’s Verdict and Your Next Drive
The Polestar 4 is a pivotal vehicle for the brand and a significant entry into the premium electric vehicle market. It’s a testament to bold design, advanced engineering, and a genuine commitment to the electric future. While its audacious rear window deletion might be polarizing, it’s also its most compelling differentiator, showcasing Polestar’s willingness to challenge conventions for a superior user experience.
From its blistering performance and impressive range to its Scandinavian-inspired luxurious interior and comprehensive suite of safety features, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling package for the discerning buyer of 2025. It drives like a dream, feels exceptionally well-built, and offers a glimpse into what premium electric mobility can truly be. For those who appreciate innovative design, exhilarating driving dynamics, and a commitment to sustainability, the Polestar 4 stands out.
It may demand a premium, but what it delivers in return – a unique, high-performance, technologically advanced, and exquisitely crafted electric SUV – justifies every dollar. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a reflection of where the automotive world is headed.
Don’t just read about the future of electric mobility – experience it. We invite you to schedule a test drive of the Polestar 4 today and discover firsthand how this innovative electric SUV is redefining performance, luxury, and design for the roads of 2025 and beyond.
