Polestar 4 Dual Motor Six-Month Review: Real-World Range

The Polestar 4 Dual Motor has redefined expectations for electric crossovers with its potent combination of power, refinement, and practicality. Over six months and more than 4,500 miles, this vehicle proved itself as a daily driver that excels in comfort, speed, and efficiency.

Powertrain and Performance Breakdown

At the heart of the Polestar 4 Dual Motor lies a dual electric motor setup paired with a 100kWh battery, delivering a staggering **536bhp** and **686Nm** of torque. This configuration propels the SUV from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class without sacrificing range. Real-world acceleration tests confirm its prowess, with 60mph reached in 3.2 seconds and a quarter-mile in 11.6 seconds at 119mph.

Despite its hefty weight exceeding 2.3 tonnes, the Polestar 4 handles with poise thanks to adaptive dampers in higher trims. These allow the suspension to absorb sharp impacts while maintaining composure over longer waves, ideal for varied British roads. The top speed is electronically limited to 125mph, with strong mid-range pull evident in 50-70mph overtakes taking just 2.6 seconds.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

The Polestar 4 boasts a WLTP-rated range of **367 miles**, bolstered by its large 100kWh battery. In our long-term test, efficiency averaged 3.6 miles/kWh over 4,622 miles, translating to practical ranges around 310 miles on motorways. A 235-mile trip from London left 25% charge, suggesting full potential near 310 miles under mixed conditions.

US EPA estimates peg it at 280 miles with 85 MPGe combined, while observed figures hit 51 MPGe. Energy consumption hovers around 21kWh/100km in spirited driving, yielding about 400km (248 miles) of stress-free travel. DC fast-charging peaks at 200kW, making top-ups efficient.

• Motorway Efficiency: 3.6 mi/kWh average
• City/Highway Mix: Up to 310 miles real-world
• Spirited Driving: ~248 miles

Interior Comfort and Space

Step inside the Polestar 4, and you’re greeted by a spacious, luxurious cabin that prioritizes passenger comfort. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, outpacing many rivals in a roomy back seat setup. Nappa leather massaging seats (optional at £3,300) elevate the experience, paired with high-quality materials throughout.

Cabin noise is impressively low at 67dBA/21 sones at 70mph cruising, quieter than competitors like the Porsche Macan 4 EV. The ride is smooth and refined, with the absence of a traditional rear window replaced by a high-quality camera mirror that takes adjustment but enhances the sleeker roofline.

Design and Innovative Features

Polestar’s design language shines in the 4, a coupe-SUV without a rear window, relying on a digital rearview camera. This radical choice initially challenges drivers but ultimately proves unobtrusive, contributing to the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency. The exterior blends Scandinavian minimalism with aggressive stance, available in metallic paints for an extra £1,000.

Standard kit is generous, including a Pro Pack (£1,800) for added tech. However, minor glitches like digital key issues arose during testing. Insurance groups it at 48, with a sample quote of £1,407.

Ownership Costs and Practicality

Priced from £67,000 new (up to £71,000 with options), the Polestar 4 undercuts premium rivals while offering superior straight-line speed and ride quality. Zero CO2 emissions and 3% BiK rating make it tax-efficient for company car drivers. Running costs remain low, with the 100kWh pack supporting long journeys.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

Equipped with the Performance Pack, the Polestar 4 exhibits exceptional chassis tuning. It changes direction nimbly, staying flat and balanced despite its size. Instant torque delivery thrills, though aggressive driving impacts range. Adaptive dampers shine on undulating surfaces, preventing body float.

Braking is confident, with 70-0mph in 176 feet and 100-0mph in 356 feet. Full-throttle noise peaks at 68dBA, refined for an EV with this power.

Technology and Infotainment

The minimalist interior features a large central touchscreen running Polestar’s intuitive software. Google integration provides seamless navigation and entertainment. The digital rearview camera delivers a clear, wide-angle view, adapting to light conditions effectively.

Voice controls and over-the-air updates keep the system current. While some teething issues with the digital key occurred, overall tech reliability was solid.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Pros: Explosive acceleration, serene ride, vast interior space, strong range, premium build.
• Cons: Camera mirror adjustment period, minor software glitches, weight affects efficiency in hard driving.

FAQ

What is the real-world range of the Polestar 4 Dual Motor?

Expect around 310 miles on motorways, with averages of 3.6 mi/kWh over long tests.

How fast is the Polestar 4?

0-62mph in 3.7s officially, 60mph in 3.2s tested.

Is the Polestar 4 comfortable for long trips?

Yes, with quiet cabin, massaging seats, and smooth suspension.

Does it have a rear window?

No, it uses a digital camera mirror instead.

What are the running costs?

Low, with 0g/km CO2 and efficient charging.