If you go along with the ‘less is more’ philosophy, a new variant of the brilliant Polestar 2 could be right up your street.
The Polestar 2 is a genuine Tesla Model Y challenger, an all-electric ‘performance fastback’ that combines achingly-cool styling with genuine long distance capabilities.
The brand itself is the result of a unique collaboration between Volvo and Chinese firm Zhejiang Geely Holding.
Previously you could enjoy the 2 as a ‘Long range Dual motor’ version, which has a 78 kWh battery, blistering power of 408 hp and a range of between 279-298 miles.
Now Polestar has revealed two new models - both of which have a single motor driving the front wheels.
One of those variants is the ‘Long range Single motor’ Polestar 2, which retains the 78 kWh battery but sees distance between charges boosted to 320-335 miles.
But perhaps even more interesting is the ‘Standard range Single motor’ Polestar.
It doesn’t have the big battery, making do with a 64 kWh unit, and power drops to a still-not-too-shabby 224 hp.
Yet the electric range is still right up there with the best, at between 260-273 miles, while the asking price drops from £45,900 to £39,900, which should also equate to lower monthly leasing costs.
For Polestar, it’s all part of their plot to get more people jumping on the electric bandwagon, as it says the new 2 is ‘accessible to a wider audience to further help accelerate the shift to more sustainable mobility. 2021 is the year in which Polestar 2 will really gain momentum’.
If you’re worried that the cheaper Polestar 2 might mean more of a compromise on style and cabin luxury, you needn’t be.
All models come with 19-inch wheels, LED light designs front and rear, Polestar’s signature frameless mirrors, as well as vegan upholstery, 3D etched panels, a high performance audio system with eight speakers, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.
The centrepiece of the interior is an Android powered infotainment screen with an 11-inch screen, as well as a 12.3 inch driver display, which comes as standard.
You also get over-the-air software updatability and cutting-edge driver assistance tech, including vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist and road edge detection support.
What else would you expect from a car with Volvo’s DNA all over it?
Drivers who enjoy some spirited performance should also be aware that the Polestar 2 is no slouch - with the range-topping model able to shift from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds.
If you want to dial things in further, you can opt for the £5,000 ‘Performance Pack’, which adds adjustable Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes, forged 20-inch alloy wheels and signature ‘Swedish gold’ details inside and out.
Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO, says:
“We launched with a strong offer which has set a great tone for the car. Now, we expand the offering with additional versions – each maintaining its unique design, premium quality and fun driving experience.”
Order books are open now.
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news:
- Oxford's Zero-Emission Zone, Tesla's rebooted Roadster and Honda e named City Car of the Year
- Sporty ‘Taigo’ SUV Coupe set to join the VW family
- Evolution of the Ford Transit van
- BMW launches two new versions of its upcoming iX SUVs
-
New VW Caddy California is the ultimate compact camper
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter here.
