Polestar 4 First Drive: 544 HP, 3.7s, Austin Review

The 2026 Polestar 4 emerges as a compelling electric crossover that fuses Scandinavian minimalism with cutting-edge performance. During an extensive test drive in Austin, Texas, this vehicle showcased its ability to navigate urban congestion and conquer the challenging twists of the Texas Hill Country with poise and power. Dual electric motors deliver up to 544 horsepower and over 500 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0-60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds, making it Polestar’s quickest production model to date.

Unconventional Design That Challenges Norms

At first glance, the Polestar 4 captivates with its sleek, coupe-like silhouette that ditches the traditional rear window entirely. This bold choice enhances aerodynamics and creates a more spacious rear cargo area, prioritizing practicality over convention. The exterior boasts a low-slung profile with sharp lines, flush door handles, and distinctive Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, giving it a futuristic presence on Austin’s bustling streets.

Inside, the cabin emphasizes simplicity and premium materials. A massive 15.4-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, powered by an Android Automotive OS with deep Google integration. Physical buttons are minimal, but essential controls like volume and climate are tactile and intuitive. The seats, wrapped in sustainable textiles or optional leather, provide excellent support for long hauls, while ambient lighting adds a subtle luxury touch.

Powertrain and Performance: Instant Thrills on Demand

The heart of the Polestar 4 is its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, offering selectable drive modes from Eco to Performance. In everyday driving, throttle response feels measured to avoid abrupt launches—a deliberate safety feature that prevents unintended acceleration. Switch to Performance mode, and the surge is immediate and composed, with crisp power delivery that maintains momentum through corners without drama.

On the undulating roads leading to Lake Travis, the suspension—adjustable via modes like Nimble—strikes a perfect balance. It absorbs bumps smoothly in Comfort yet firms up to communicate road feedback precisely in sportier settings. The chassis exhibits minimal body roll, rewarding accurate steering inputs with confident grip from the 20-inch or optional 21-inch wheels.

Tech Innovations: Smarter Than the Competition

Polestar sets itself apart with pioneering features like Google Live Lane Guidance, the first automotive integration of this AI-driven system. Using the front-facing camera, it reads road signs and lane markings in real-time, overlaying precise navigation arrows on the driver’s display for unparalleled confidence in complex junctions.

The absence of a rear window is seamlessly addressed by a high-resolution digital rearview mirror. This camera feed provides a wider, unobstructed view, adjustable for glare, and proves more reliable than traditional glass in low-light or inclement conditions. Additional driver aids include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system that excels in tight Austin parking scenarios.

• Google-Powered Infotainment: Seamless voice commands, over-the-air updates, and built-in Google Maps with live traffic.
• Audio Excellence: A 25-speaker Dolby Atmos system from Meyer Sound delivers immersive sound, rivaling luxury sedans.
• Wireless Convenience: Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and dual wireless charging pads.

Range, Efficiency, and Real-World Battery Performance

Equipped with a 100 kWh battery, the Polestar 4 offers an EPA-estimated range exceeding 300 miles, though real-world figures in mixed driving hovered around 280-310 miles during the Texas outing. Highway efficiency shines at about 2.8-3.0 mi/kWh, improving in city stop-go thanks to regenerative braking.

DC fast charging peaks at 250 kW, adding 10-80% in under 30 minutes. The vehicle’s low center of gravity enhances stability, making it feel planted even at elevated speeds on sweeping Hill Country highways.

Urban Agility Meets Highway Prowess

In downtown Austin, the Polestar 4’s compact footprint belies its wide stance, maneuvering effortlessly through scooter-dodging traffic and valet stands at trendy hotels like the Van Zandt. Low-speed control is refined, with one-pedal driving smoothing urban crawls.

Venturing into the Hill Country, the route’s blind rises, limestone outcrops, and scrub-lined sweepers tested the chassis. The Polestar 4 maintained a repeatable pace, never flustered by mid-corner bumps or elevation changes. It’s a car that invites spirited driving without punishing precision errors, feeling more grand tourer than hot hatch.

Practicality and Everyday Livability

Despite its sporty ethos, the Polestar 4 accommodates families well. Rear legroom rivals larger SUVs, and the frunk adds 15 cubic feet upfront. Cargo space expands to 56 cubic feet with seats folded, aided by the rear window omission that allows a flat load floor.

Build quality impresses with tight panel gaps and soft-touch surfaces throughout. Ride comfort in standard mode rivals premium EVs, isolating occupants from road noise effectively.

How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

The Polestar 4 carves a niche between Tesla’s Model Y and Audi’s Q6 e-tron. It surpasses Tesla in interior refinement and physical controls while matching acceleration. Against BMW i4 or Mercedes EQE SUV, it offers superior range and unique tech without the price premium.

Pricing, Availability, and Ownership Perks

Starting at around $60,000 for the Long Range Single Motor, the Dual Motor version commands $73,000-plus. U.S. deliveries began in late 2025, with incentives like free Supercharging trials via Polestar’s partnership network. A 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and 8-year battery coverage provide peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the Polestar 4 really have no rear window?

Yes, it’s replaced by a superior digital mirror using a rear camera for a clearer, wider view.

How fast is the Polestar 4?

With 544 HP, it achieves 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, offering Tesla-rivaling speed.

What’s the range on a full charge?

Expect over 300 miles EPA, with real-world results varying by conditions and mode.

Is the Polestar 4 comfortable for daily driving?

Absolutely—adjustable suspension and quiet cabin make it ideal for city and highway use.

Can it handle twisty roads?

Perfectly; its balanced chassis and torque vectoring shine on curvy Texas Hill Country routes.