The 2024 Polestar 2 Long Range dual Motor Performance pack has been updated from the initial launch version and features a larger 82kWh battery pack compared to the previous version's 76kWh battery pack, allowing for up to 568km on a full charge. With its dual motor setup, 0-100km/h takes 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 205km/h. Performance pack also includes upgrade sports wheels, upgraded Brembo brake callipers, and upgraded Ohlins sport suspension. All models come standard with an 11.2" Android Automotive Touchscreen infotainment unit.
Updated & Upgraded
Much of the 2024 car is identical to the launch version of the car. There are however some key updates and upgrades made to the 2024 version. For starters, a larger 82kWh battery pack replaces the 78kWh battery pack from before, and now boasts a range of up to 568km on a full charge. While I'm sure nobody is going to achieve the actual range stated on paper, more is still more, and consumers can look forward to a slightly longer range than before. Aesthetically, this change is also presented on the same of the front doors, where the Polestar 2 emblem now indicates its 82kWh rating.
Elsewhere, the Polestar 2 now features a new front "grille" that Polestar calls the Smart Zone, and is essentially a new blanked out housing that carries the Polestar 2's radar systems for adaptive cruise control purposes. The new setup looks clean and sleek, albeit a little bit more demure. In that sense, I do prefer the previous version's pixel styled front grille. From a driving perspective, the new Performance Pack car features a slightly softer ride than before, and this has been done by altering the stock setup on the car's Ohlins adjustable sports suspension. While this new and softer setup does invite a hint of squatting under heavy acceleration, the setup is by and large better for day to day use. If you're not a fan - fret not. The setup is adjustable so you'll still be able to customise that on your own.
Positioning & Segment Standing
Now, this is a touchy topic because no manufacturer likes being compared to others - but the harsh reality is that as consumers, we do. Based on specs, the Polestar 2 LRDM Performance Pack sits in the same bracket as the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and BYD Seal Performance. However, its price point sits closer to a BMW i4. Interestingly then, it's quite hard to put the Polestar 2 into a clear cut bracket and segment. Fortunately, the Polestar 2 does come in 3 different variants with 3 clearly defined price points, so consumers will find that the range of Polestar 2 cars adequately cover the entire $200k - $300k spectrum.
What is important to note though, is that despite sharing similar specs to the Model 3 Long Range and the BYD Seal Performance, the Polestar 2 LRDM Performance Pack feels like a much more luxurious vehicle than the other two, and where Tesla and BYD seem to cover the mass market quite well, the Polestar 2 is the more premium car of the lot and sits closer to the BMW i4 in terms of the product's fit, form, and finish - which brings us to our next point.
Stylish & Refined Product
Built with the same minimalist DNA found in Volvo cars, the Polestar 2 is quite the stylish and refined product, boasting a cabin that is effortlessly simple, but oozes sophistication. Screens and digital displays are matted out and have a simple layout that is modern and aesthetically pleasing to the eye, while what seems like a deliberate attempt to eliminate the use of physical buttons where possible pays off - as the cabin looks clean and classy.
Like a true luxury vehicle, the Polestar 2 also has a few party pieces embedded in its cabin that we really like. One of which is the drive selector, which is as unique as it is beautiful, aesthetically housing the Polestar logo which seems to be getting more recognisable by the week. Up top, another Polestar logo is illuminated onto the panoramic glass roof, giving the rear passengers the impression that you are headed towards the North Star - pretty pointless I'd admit, but definitely cool nonetheless. Truth is, even if you're not a tree hugger a can't be too bothered that the cabin is made out of sustainable materials, you're still going to feel like the Polestar 2 has a fit and finish that is clearly a step up from its Tesla and BYD counterparts.
Who will it Appeal to?
Non-SUV EVs are not a particular commodity in the automotive market in Singapore, and the few good options are all mentioned in this review - thus, the Polestar 2 will definitely appeal to EV buyers who are seeking a lower slung sedan / fastback format and don't want an SUV. Separating within its segment, the Polestar 2 will stand out for those who are after a minimalist aesthetic, stylish appeal, and a well built product all around.
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