The Polestar 4: Redefining Electric Performance and Design for 2025
The automotive landscape in 2025 is a whirlwind of innovation, electrification, and evolving con
sumer expectations. Amidst this dynamic environment, Polestar, the Swedish electric performance brand, has consistently pushed boundaries, and their latest entrant, the Polestar 4, arrives on US roads not just as another luxury electric SUV but as a bold statement. Having observed the trajectory of electric vehicles (EVs) over the last decade, I can confidently say that the Polestar 4 isn’t merely bridging the gap between performance and practicality; it’s carving out a new segment entirely, particularly with its audacious design philosophy and uncompromising driving dynamics.
When the Polestar 4 debuted in European and Asian markets in early 2024, it garnered significant attention, not least for its striking omission of a conventional rear window. Now, as it firmly establishes its presence across North America in late 2025, US consumers are finally experiencing a vehicle that challenges preconceived notions of automotive design and functionality. Positioned strategically between the Polestar 2 sedan-crossover and the larger Polestar 3 SUV, this electric D-segment performance SUV enters a fiercely competitive arena, ready to lock horns with established luxury players and emerging EV contenders alike. With a starting price point that hovers around $56,400, escalating rapidly for more equipped trims, the Polestar 4 is squarely aimed at the premium electric vehicle buyer seeking distinctiveness and an unadulterated driving experience.
A Daring Vision: The Rear Window Reimagined
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the absence of glass in the rear. The most talked-about and, initially, most controversial design element of the Polestar 4 is the complete lack of a dedicated rear window. This isn’t a mere stylistic flourish; it’s a fundamental re-engineering of the vehicle’s rear architecture, an audacious move also previewed on the forthcoming Polestar 5. For a seasoned automotive observer like myself, such a radical departure from convention immediately raises questions about practicality, safety, and driver acclimatization.
Polestar’s design philosophy, articulated by Head of Design Maximilian Missoni, centers on resolving inherent compromises. Traditional coupe-SUV designs often sacrifice rear headroom or aerodynamic efficiency for an aesthetic line or vice-versa. With the Polestar 4, the expansive panoramic glass roof stretches seamlessly to the rear, creating an unbroken, elegant silhouette that enhances both the car’s aerodynamics and its visual appeal. The ingenious solution to the rear visibility concern comes in the form of a high-definition, roof-mounted camera that feeds a crystal-clear, wide-angle view directly to the rearview mirror display.
Having spent considerable time evaluating this system, I can attest that it works remarkably well in practice. The digital rearview offers a consistently unobstructed and often superior field of vision compared to a conventional mirror, particularly when the cabin is filled with passengers or cargo. It eradicates blind spots that rear pillars might create and maintains clarity regardless of external conditions that would typically obscure a physical window, such as rain, snow, or a dirty rear screen. Concerns about seasonal ice or dirt accumulation that would typically render a traditional rear window useless in harsh climates are mitigated by this intelligent camera system, which often benefits from its higher placement and active cleaning mechanisms. This innovative approach not only redefines driver perception but also liberates significant interior space for rear passengers, allowing for increased headroom and a more reclined seating position – a direct benefit of the structural freedom provided by the removed glass. This is truly next-gen EV technology applied intelligently.
Electrifying Performance: Power, Range, and Charging Prowess
Underneath its sleek, aerodynamic shell, the Polestar 4 houses a sophisticated electric powertrain designed for exhilarating performance and practical range. In 2025, consumers demand not just eco-friendliness but genuine driving pleasure, and the Polestar 4 delivers on both fronts, offering compelling single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations.
The single-motor variant, a 200-kilowatt liquid-cooled permanent-magnet motor, produces a robust 272 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While these figures might seem modest compared to its dual-motor sibling, the RWD Polestar 4 impresses with its brisk acceleration (0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds) and a more accessible price point, starting around $57,800. Critically, it also boasts an impressive estimated range of 310 miles on a single charge, making it an excellent option for daily commutes and longer journeys alike, particularly for those prioritizing efficiency and a slightly lighter curb weight.
For the true performance enthusiasts, the dual-motor AWD version is where the Polestar 4 truly unleashes its high-performance potential. With a formidable 544 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, this configuration transforms the Polestar 4 into an electric rocket, capable of launching from 0-62 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds. While the numbers suggest a vast chasm between the two variants, both powertrains deliver that instantaneous, torque-rich acceleration inherent to EVs, providing a thrilling sensation from behind the wheel. The dual-motor model, starting at approximately $64,300, offers an estimated range of 280 miles, a still highly competitive figure in the premium EV market of 2025. Both variants share a respectable top speed of 124 mph, ensuring ample passing power on American highways.
Powering both configurations is a substantial 100-kilowatt-hour battery, engineered for both robust performance and rapid charging capabilities. With support for DC fast charging at up to 200 kilowatts, the Polestar 4 can replenish its battery from 10% to 80% in well under 30 minutes at a compatible charging station. This speed is crucial for long-distance travel, alleviating range anxiety and making cross-country EV journeys more feasible than ever. Furthermore, Polestar has embraced the industry standard, integrating NACS (North American Charging Standard) ports directly into the Polestar 4, ensuring seamless compatibility with Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network and a growing number of third-party NACS-equipped chargers across the continent. This move significantly enhances the usability and value proposition of the Polestar 4 for US consumers, making EV charging network compatibility a non-issue.
A Sanctuary of Sustainable Luxury and Advanced Technology
Stepping inside the Polestar 4, it’s immediately evident that Polestar designers have crafted a cabin that is both luxurious and forward-thinking, prioritizing sustainability without compromising on comfort or technological integration. For a veteran like myself, who has seen countless iterations of “premium” interiors, the Polestar 4 stands out for its thoughtful material choices and intuitive digital interface.
The available Bridge of Weir leather seating, renowned for its low-carbon footprint and exquisite feel, offers heating and massage functions, transforming every drive into a serene experience. Beyond traditional luxury, Polestar offers an innovative Tailored Knit upholstery, crafted from 100% recycled PET plastic waste. This 3D-knitted textile isn’t just environmentally friendly; it’s visually appealing and surprisingly comfortable, showcasing Polestar’s commitment to sustainable automotive innovation. The tactile quality and bespoke nature of these materials elevate the cabin experience, reflecting a modern interpretation of luxury.
Rear-seat passengers are treated to an elevated experience as well. Thanks to the unique rear-window-free design, the rear seats not only offer generous headroom but can also recline, a feature often reserved for larger, more expensive SUVs. The available Plus Pack adds heating functionality to these seats, ensuring comfort in colder climates. A small, dedicated touchscreen nestled between the front seats allows rear occupants to control climate settings and infotainment, though it doesn’t support video playback – a sensible decision that keeps focus on the journey.
At the heart of the Polestar 4’s digital cockpit is a striking 15.4-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen. Powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, this intuitive interface offers seamless integration with popular apps and services. While generally praised for its responsiveness and clarity, some functions, such as vent adjustments and even the glovebox door, are relegated to the screen. As an expert who values physical controls for frequently used features, this is a minor point of contention, yet it reflects a broader industry trend toward digital centralization. The driver also benefits from a crisp 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, providing essential driving data with clarity and sophistication.
One particularly exciting addition for the 2025 model year is the integration of Google Maps with live lane guidance. This feature, while not present on all early test cars, uses enhanced visual cues and real-time data to suggest optimal lanes, display upcoming turns with greater precision, and even highlight city crosswalks and road signs. This intelligent navigation system is a game-changer for urban driving and a true enhancement to the connected car technology experience. And for a touch of whimsy, a charming screensaver featuring a robot dog proclaiming “my owner will be back soon” adds a unique personality to the vehicle when parked.
Driving Dynamics: An Expert’s Perspective
Having tested countless electric SUVs, I often find a disconnect between advertised performance and real-world driving feel. The Polestar 4, however, bridges this gap with exceptional dynamic road manners that genuinely impress. On the winding roads of Texas hill country, the dual-motor Polestar 4 felt remarkably poised and agile, artfully masking its 5,192 pounds of curb weight. This is largely attributable to its low center of gravity (inherent to EVs) and sophisticated chassis tuning, which includes active dampers that continually adjust to road conditions, ensuring a plush ride over bumps while firming up for spirited cornering.
The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering commendable feedback that inspires confidence. When it comes to stopping power, the four-piston Brembo brakes are, as expected, nothing short of impressive, providing powerful, consistent, and fade-free deceleration. This combination of robust acceleration, precise handling, and powerful braking creates a truly engaging and high-performance electric vehicle driving experience.
Beyond performance, the Polestar 4 offers a remarkably serene and quiet cabin. Polestar has clearly invested in superior sound insulation, isolating occupants from road and wind noise, even at highway speeds. This quietude is further enhanced by the available 12-speaker, 1,320-watt Harman Kardon stereo system (part of the premium pack), which delivers rich, immersive audio, transforming the interior into a private concert hall. The absence of AM radio, a trend across many new EVs, is a minor inconvenience for some, but a reflection of evolving media consumption habits.
Safety and driver assistance are paramount in modern vehicles, and the Polestar 4 is loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Boasting no fewer than 11 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, it offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. This robust integration of autonomous driving features, coupled with its excellent passive safety, makes the Polestar 4 a very secure place to be. While the bottom line for a fully loaded dual-motor test model can reach upwards of $71,600, the blend of performance, luxury, and technology justifies the investment for many discerning buyers.
Strategic Positioning and Polestar’s Global Vision for 2025
In the highly competitive luxury EV market of 2025, Polestar’s distinct approach to design and performance is critical for standing out. While some might argue its styling could be more overtly aggressive to differentiate it further, the Polestar 4’s true appeal often crystallizes during the test drive – its refined dynamics and cutting-edge technology speak volumes. Polestar’s product identity team, led by Christian Samson, had a clear objective with the 4: to create a vehicle that “feels lighter” and achieve a 300-mile range. Having experienced it firsthand, they’ve accomplished both, delivering a nimble EV that genuinely lives up to its range estimates.
The brand’s manufacturing strategy also reflects the complexities of the global automotive industry in 2025. Initially produced at a plant in Hangzhou Bay, China, Polestar began additional production in Busan, South Korea, this year. This strategic decision is largely tariff-related; following recent trade agreements, South Korea currently benefits from a more favorable 15% tariff for exports to the US, making it an attractive production hub. This flexibility in manufacturing allows Polestar to adapt to geopolitical shifts and optimize market access.
Looking beyond the 4, Polestar’s future lineup paints a clear picture of an ambitious brand committed exclusively to battery electric vehicles. The Polestar 5, a sleek four-door electric GT sedan based on the stunning Precept concept car, is slated for a European launch late this year, promising incredible performance and luxury. The Polestar 6, a breathtaking two-seat electric roadster, represents a “sports car for the era of electrification,” though its release date remains under wraps. Both the 5 and 6 are expected to be manufactured in China.
Further down the pipeline, the Polestar 7, a two-row SUV, is anticipated in 2028. Positioned to be smaller and more accessible than the Polestar 3 but not a replacement for the 2, the 7 will be produced at a Volvo plant in Slovakia. While Slovakia’s 25% tariff rate currently exists, the ever-evolving nature of international trade agreements means this could change by 2028. Polestar’s firm commitment to an electric-only future, eschewing plug-in hybrids, underscores its dedication to pure electrification. The brand’s significant sales growth observed in the first three quarters of 2025 across its 28 global markets speaks volumes about its rising influence and consumer acceptance.
The Polestar 4: A New Benchmark
In conclusion, the Polestar 4 is far more than just another electric SUV. It represents a bold step forward in automotive design, a testament to performance engineering, and a commitment to sustainable luxury. For those navigating the increasingly crowded premium EV segment in 2025, the Polestar 4 offers a compelling blend of cutting-edge technology, exhilarating driving dynamics, and a unique aesthetic that sets it apart. Its daring rear-window-free design, coupled with its potent powertrains and NACS compatibility, positions it as a highly relevant and desirable contender. As an expert who has witnessed the dramatic evolution of the automotive industry, I believe the Polestar 4 isn’t just participating in the future of mobility; it’s actively shaping it.
Are you ready to experience the future of electric performance? We invite you to explore the innovative design, exhilarating power, and sustainable luxury of the Polestar 4 firsthand. Discover how this extraordinary vehicle redefines your perception of what an electric SUV can be by scheduling your exclusive test drive today.
