Breaking the Mold: How Polestar 4 Redefines Electric Driving and Shatters SUV Norms
Imagine a vehicle that eludes every attempt at categorization, challenging the conventional labels we put on our cars. Enter the Polestar 4, a groundbreaking electric vehicle that refuses to be boxed into traditional automotive segments. A marvel of Swedish automotive ingenuity, the Polestar 4 stands as a testament to Polestar's commitment to innovation and design.
In the heart of Sweden, I had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Polestar 4 prototype, a car that Polestar ambitiously markets as a sportier, coupe-like alternative to its sibling, the Polestar 3. But to simply call it an SUV would be an understatement; it blurs the lines between sedan, crossover, and fastback, echoing the versatile spirit of the iconic Saab 900.
Despite being Polestar's fourth model, the 4 is more than just a number. It marks a significant step in the brand's evolution, distancing itself from Volvo while embracing the pioneering SEA modular architecture. Compared to its predecessors, the Polestar 4 stands out with its generous dimensions, measuring impressively in length, width, and height. This is not just another car in a Volvo showroom; it's a distinct entity with a unique identity.
One of the most controversial aspects of the Polestar 4 is its lack of a traditional rear window. A bold move by the design team aimed at enhancing aerodynamics and creating spacious interiors without the visual clutter often seen in coupes. This design choice, defended by Polestar's top brass, signifies a leap forward in automotive technology and design philosophy.
Instead of a rear window, the prototype features a sophisticated camera system that feeds live footage to a digital rearview mirror. This system, developed by Gentex, aims to address challenges associated with camera-based visibility solutions, including a clever nozzle to keep the camera lens clean under various conditions.
Inside, the Polestar 4 continues to prioritize minimalism without sacrificing functionality. From a digital instrument cluster to a 15.4-inch touchscreen powered by an Android-based infotainment system, every element is thoughtfully placed. Yet, traditional controls like the gear selector and volume knob remind us of the tactile pleasures of driving.
Unusual for an electric vehicle, the 4 offers themed ambient lighting based on our solar system, allowing drivers to customize their cabin atmosphere. But the real excitement begins once you hit the road.
Polestar plans to launch the 4 with two versions, each boasting a 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack capable of impressive acceleration and range. Whether you opt for the single-motor rear-wheel drive or the dual-motor all-wheel drive, the driving experience promises to be exhilarating. The all-wheel-drive version, in particular, sets a new speed benchmark for Polestar.
The absence of an air suspension in the 4, which differentiates it from the 3, doesn't detract from the driving experience. On the contrary, the steel spring setup offers a harmonious balance between comfort and handling precision.
My time with the Polestar 4, although limited to a pre-production prototype, showcased the vehicle's adeptness at providing a comfortable ride without compromising on agility or sportiness. Its weight distribution and handling characteristics bring a sense of unity between driver and machine, a rarity in the realm of electric vehicles.
The Polestar 4 is not just another addition to the EV market. It's a bold statement, a vehicle that refuses to conform to conventional categories, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive design. Its anticipated arrival in late 2024 as a 2025 model in the American market only adds to the excitement surrounding this revolutionary vehicle.