Going for a subtle statement with an edge, let's dive into the Polestar 2 Dual Motor Performance - the understated behemoth that's taking the electric market by storm.
Who needs flashy decals when the Polestar 2 speaks for itself? The 'Polestar 2, 78 kWh / 335 kW' stubbornly carved into the doors might seem like an afterthought, but it's all the confirmation you need of this sedan's prowess. Under the USA's power measurement system, that translates to the Polestar 2's 350 kW / 476 hp engine output, making it a serious threat to Tesla's Model 3.
In a market that's been overrun by electric SUVs, Polestar's choice to debut with a sedan - the Volvo electric counterpart with a short rear end - is a stroke of genius. The design works well, resonating with the primary US market. As a result, the Polestar 2 pops up more frequently during recharges in places like UCLA, Pasadena, and Costa Mesa.
The 'Made in Sweden' vibe is strong with Polestar's electric endeavor. Being a subsidiary of Chinese-based Geely International, it's a blend of two worlds - the chic Swedish design and craftsmanship coupled with the Chinese efficiency. The dual-motor setup is the bomb, offering all-wheel drive with 310 kW or 350 kW of power, depending on your preference.
Go for the long-range setting, and you'll find the 220 kW / 299 hp variation kicks just as hard as its beefier counterpart. Despite being rear-wheel drive, it speeds off from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, hitting a top speed of 205 km/h.
The 650km range with the 78 kWh battery pack may take a bit of a hit in the all-wheel drive version, but the charging speed compensates for that. Capable of handling 205 kilowatts, it's decent enough in the face of the best offerings from Tesla, Audi, Kia, or Hyundai on Californian coastlines.
The fuel consumption is a smidge higher than the 16 kWh/100km promised on American highways, clocking in at around 20 kWh per 100km in the US. It's nothing to worry about, though, considering the power that the Polestar 2 Dual Motor Performance brings to the table.
The top-tier series version, armed with an impressive 350 kW / 476 hp and a monstrous 740 Nm maximum torque, delivers that gut-punch acceleration, leaving you short of breath and pinned to the seat. It's like each gearshift brings a new level of adrenaline, making you forget about bad roads or your aching back.
The networking features of the Polestar 2 are out of this world, thanks to Volvo letting the cat out of the bag. The Google Android Auto system shines brightly in both the USA and Europe, opening up a plethora of music streaming, app, and movie options. However, there are two niggling pitfalls - the absence of a head-up display and narrow digital instrument readouts. It's a shame, considering its class and competition.
The Polestar 2 isn't perfect, but its stern suspension and taskmaster-like handling make it unquestionably hard on the road. The steering is direct, and the rigid pedal feel is a stark reminder that this sedan cruises at speeds that would leave many EVs in its dust.
The Polestar 2 also doesn't dispel the notion that driven by a firm hand, it's one mean combatant in the day-to-day grind. The rear cargo space of 405 liters is more than enough, and the standard retractable lever makes loading and unloading freight a breeze.
The Polestar 2 Dual Motor Performance might be the Swede with a Chinese influence, but it unquestionably offers something unique in the electrical market. And with the commitment to release a successor in the next decade, you can expect this electric beast to only go from strength to strength.
