2022 Polestar 2 Long range Dual motor

Polestar 2 with the “Long range Dual motor” configuration produces up to 408 horsepower/300 kW, and 487 lb-ft of torque. The energy comes from the 78 kWh battery with 27 modules. Charging is handled by the Type 2 port that supports 11 kW charging at public locations, and a CCS connector for 155 kW fast charging. The motors drive all four wheels and can sprint 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. Plenty of thrust from full stop thanks to the motors.

Polestar 2 has an EPA-rated range of 249 miles on a single charge. China is the major source for foreign parts content.

This vehicle is not yet rated by the NHTSA 5-Star safety testing. The suggested list price is 49,900 for the Dual motor model. The Single motor version starts at $45,900.

Polestar 2 is unlike any other car I have ever driven. The cabin is pure technology. The driver interacts with the infotainment system through a tablet-style 11.2-inch center display that dominates the interior. The software system has tight integration with Google services like Google Assistant and Google Maps. Voice commands through Google Assistant help with keeping the eyes on the road while driving.

Modern infotainment design philosophy bonds with smartphones and adopts touchscreen UI controls. Personally I am old school, desiring a multitude of knobs and buttons to choose from. The power tailgate was about the only thing I understood how to operate. There is a Polestar app for Android and iOS for vehicle data, driver settings customization, and Digital Key unlocking.

Concerning the environmental philosophy, the interior of the polestar 2 is entirely vegan, meaning that zero animal products are applied. The WeaveTech fabric is lighter than leather and easy to clean. This material almost entirely eliminates the harmful phthalates (Known as plasticizer), which increases material flexibility and is found in the vinyl commonly used in automotive interiors. The upholstery material appeared soft and inviting, but the seats themselves were a little confining.

I found the Polestar 2 to be unbelievably quiet, but the shocks could use a little work. The engine was so quiet, it was a challenge to know if I had turned off or restarted the vehicle. You can start and stop the engine using the key fob too. Outside visibility was superb.

Safety is paramount to Polestar. Features like Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Migration, Road Sign Information, Park Assist Rear Camera, Front and Rear Park Assist, and Driver Alert Control are good examples.

Polestar’s push for sustainability should score points with individuals who are concerned about the environment. However, if you prefer the traditional feel of combustion engine roar and a well-appointed, less-digital interior, you may feel the Polestar is not for you.

Big cities and wealthy suburbs are loaded with potential admirers. There would be a welcoming environment for all-electric cars with plenty of charging stations.

However, I live in Texas, dotted with hundreds of small and mid-size towns. In Austin and wealthy enclaves near UT, in North Dallas County, and trendy communities around the hospital district in Houston, Polestar 2 will catch the public’s eye and fit right in. But elsewhere in Texas? There are 254 counties in Texas and there are 45 counties without a single doctor and 77 without a hospital. There is likely still a ways to go before enough charging stations cover those less populated parts. I’ll wager a 20 ounce Dr Pepper there isn’t a single charge station between Lubbock and Amarillo.

Please, before you beat up on me, there is definitely a market for electric cars, but it may be in the distance. Most of the South, Midwest, Mountainous North, and Great Plains will lean on gas engines for work and play for another while.

Warranty
4 years/50,000 miles vehicle warranty
8 years battery warranty
12 years corrosion warranty
4 years/unlimited mileage Polestar Connect Roadside Assistance
3 years/30,000 miles complimentary factory scheduled maintenance

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].