The Polestar 2 is Volvo's quasi-independent EV brand's volume play. Built on the same CMA platform as the Volvo XC40 Recharge, but with the Polestar treatment to the styling, the chassis tune and the cabin layout. The result is an EV that feels distinct from both Volvo and Tesla without trying too hard.

What you are buying

A choice of single-motor RWD (170 kW) or dual-motor AWD (300 kW) Long Range variants. The 75 kWh battery delivers around 540 km WLTP in the most efficient configuration. The cabin uses Google's Android Automotive natively, so Google Maps and Google Assistant are built into the infotainment without a phone connection.

Cartell Assessment

The Polestar 2 is the EV for the buyer who wants Tesla-like performance without the Tesla brand baggage. The Google-native infotainment is genuinely a step above the price-equivalent rivals. The compromise is the slightly smaller boot and the firmer ride, which depending on roads will read as either composed or relentless.

AU Outlook

Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor pricing in Australia sits in the low-$70k drive-away range. The Dual Motor variants climb into the mid-$80k. Cross-shop is the Tesla Model 3, the Hyundai IONIQ 6, and the BMW i4 eDrive40.

The spec sheet

Power
300 kW (Dual Motor)
Torque
660 Nm
Range (WLTP)
540 km WLTP (LR Single)
Charging
155 kW DC, 11 kW AC
Drive
RWD or Dual-motor AWD
Seats
5
Warranty
5 years / unlimited km, 8 years on HV battery
Safety
Euro NCAP 5-star

Trim levels & pricing

TrimPriceWhat you get
Polestar 2 Standard Rangefrom $67,400 + ORC (verify)RWD, 69 kWh battery
Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motorfrom $71,400 + ORC (verify)RWD, 75 kWh, 540 km WLTP
Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motorfrom $78,500 + ORC (verify)AWD, 300 kW, 4.5 s 0-100

Prices indicative — see the manufacturer for current drive-away pricing.

4
CarTell Verdict
Strongly recommended. A few minor flaws.