First Drive: 2024 Polestar 2

The Polestar 2, the Swedish EV maker’s compact, five-door luxury hatchback received its first significant update for 2024, increasing range as much as 20% while reducing charging times by more than a third. But the most satisfying change of all is its improved driving dynamics.

Overview

Launched in 2020 as a 2021 model, the Polestar 2 is the brand’s first all-electric model, debuting with a single motor and front-wheel drive, and returning 233 miles on a charge.

That changes dramatically for 2024, as the model’s lone motor now moves to the rear axle, while a new 82 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack generates as much as 320 miles of range. Dual motor all-wheel-drive models also see their drivelines tweaked for a rear-drive bias, and all models boast increased range thanks to new, more efficient motors.

Exterior

The most notable change to the Polestar 2’s design comes up front, where Polestar has fitted the vehicle’s radars and cameras, and naming it the SmartZone for some reason. 

As you would expect with any model update, there are new wheels. Polestar shods its steed with 19- or 20-inch all-season Michelin tires, although ordering the optional Performance Pack brings with it 20-inch Continental performance rubber. 

Otherwise, it remains unchanged, with a humble unique proportion that’s unlike any competitor. 

Interior

The interior remains much the same as before, with a high beltline and tall center console that feels cacoon-like. The minimalist interior contains some switchgear, as not every function has been relegated to the large vertical touchscreen. That includes the instrument cluster. Yes, this EV actually has one, and it’s greatly appreciated.

As with any compact vehicle regardless of market segment, the Polestar 2 is roomy enough up front, with adequate headroom, while rear seat space is adequate, and somewhat dependent on the kindness of those up front. Cargo space is average for the class, at 14 cubic feet.

Powertrain

As before, the Polestar 2 is offered in Single or Dual Motor models. But the biggest change comes with the base Single Motor model, which sees its motor move to the rear axle from the front. This may be a non-starter for some, as it now lacks the added foul weather traction that comes with front-wheel drive. For them, Polestar still makes the Dual Motor model that features front motor freewheeling to conserve range. 

Rear-wheel-drive Single Motor Polestar 2s generate 299 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque, up 68 hp and 118 lb-ft from the 2023 Single Motor model. Range is rated at 320 miles with 19-inch wheels, 307 miles with 20-inch wheels.

All-wheel-drive Dual Motor models come with 421 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque. Range is rated at 276 miles with 19-inch wheels and 266 miles with 20-inch wheels. But Dual-Motor models get an optional Performance Pack, which increases horsepower to 455, while reducing range to 247 miles. But the $5,500 option does reduce 0-60 mph to 4.1 seconds from 4.3 seconds. 

Towing is rated at 2,000 pounds for all models.

Safety and Technology

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the 2024 Polestar 2 a five-star rating in all categories, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not crash tested the Polestar 2. 

When it comes to safety, Dual Motor Polestar 2s come with the Pilot Pack as standard equipment, which adds such driver assistance aids as Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Stop Assist, Rear Collision Warning and Mitigation, and LED front fog lights. It’s a $2,200 option on Single Motor models.

When it comes to tech, the Polestar is as good as it gets with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.3-inch infotainment screen running Google’s Android Automotive OS software, including Google Maps navigation. Sweet! Polestar fits the cabin with two USB ports in each row, while a Harman/Kardon audio system provides the entertainment.

Driving Impressions

While Polestar’s promise of improved handling proves true, it’s most apparent on the Single Motor model, which sees it swapping front-wheel drive for rear-wheel drive and all of the performance promise that entails. In a sea change for its persona, all Polestar 2s now have a rear-wheel bias. But it’s most apparent on the rear-wheel-drive models, which hunker down in a corner as the back end rotates around with admirable control. The regenerative braking proves to be a real hero here, as its pedal force is expertly engineered to make it very easy to modulate for one-pedal driving. Unlike some competitors, it’s neither too aggressive nor too light. It’s Goldilocks – just right.

The cabin remains quiet, free of wind noise, with a hint of tire hum and a slight whine from the electric motors. That said, back-seat passengers may find the ride far firmer and jiggly than those in the front; there’s a noticeable difference in comfort. 

2024 Polestar 2 Dual Motor Specifications

Wrap Up

The Polestar 2 remains what it has been since its launch, a unique flavor with a beautifully balanced ride and handling package. But the 2024 updates make it more so, and a far more compelling proposition. The updates keep it competitive, although its built in China, meaning its only eligible for the $7,500 tax credit if you’re leasing. Like Volvo, Polestar is owned by China’s Geely, which plans to produce vehicles in the U.S. at a plant it shares with Volvo near Charleston, South Carolina.

Nevertheless, the updated Polestar 2 adroitly sets the stage for the forthcoming larger Polestar 3, with the Polestars 4, 5 and 6, due by 2026. 

2024 Polestar 2 ­— Frequently Asked Questions