Polestar has unveiled its next all-new model called the Polestar 4. It sits near the Polestar 3 fully electric SUV, which is set to arrive in Australia early in 2024. Although, this is a bit smaller and obviously sexier in design.
The Polestar 4 is the Volvo-owned – Geely-owned – brand’s first coupe-style SUV. It rides on the company’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), which was developed by Geely, and is pitched as a D-segment SUV.
Traditional D-segment vehicles in Europe include the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which gives you some idea of the Polestar 4’s size and proportions. In Australia the Polestar 2 sits in with the 3 Series well, as per VFACTS classification.
Polestar says the new model is “more circular” in terms of production and material efficiency. It includes things like blockchain traceability for risk materials in the battery, for example. There’s also been a full life cycle assessment during development, outlining the true carbon footprint of the vehicle.
However, such details haven’t yet been revealed. It does say it will release the full stats along with the Product Sustainability Declaration in 2024, ahead of its market release.
The design is quite stunning, with a pointed front end speaking nothing but focused performance, and a very elegant rear end showing sophistication and beauty. However, you may have noticed there is no rear windscreen. Speaking about the design, Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO, said:
“With Polestar 4 we have taken a fundamental new approach to SUV coupe design. Rather than simply modifying an existing SUV, giving it a faster roofline and as a result, compromising elements like rear headroom and comfort, we have designed Polestar 4 from the ground up as a new breed of SUV coupe that celebrates rear occupant comfort and experience.”
What probably matters more to us driving fans is that this will be Polestar’s fastest production car it has ever made. The maximum combined output is 400kW and 686Nm, with 0-100km/h claimed in just 3.8 seconds.
Buyers will be able to choose between single- and dual-motor versions, while Polestar promises “sharp steering and handling responses” for all, creating a “thrilling and nimble” drive experience.
Power comes from a 102kWh battery for the long-range models, with a target WLTP range of 563km. A long range single motor version will offer 200kW and 343Nm, with a target range of 599km.
The dual-motor models come equipped with a clutch disconnect system to unlink the front axle for more efficient driving, when possible. Meanwhile the entry single motor model features a rear motor for rear-wheel drive.
Maximum charging capacities stand at 200kW for DC rapid chargers, and 22kW for AC charging. A heat pump comes as standard to maximise battery efficiency and cabin climate. There’s also vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
To help with handling the Polestar 4 comes with semi-active suspension on the dual-motor versions, and wheel sizes range from 20 to 22 inches, with either Pirelli or Michelin tyres.
In terms of the cabin environment, passengers are treated to a 15.4-inch touch-screen running Android Auto OS and a Snapdragon Cockpit Platform, with built-in Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play software. It’s all set to be very clever yet user-friendly.
Polestar says it will launch the 4 in China first, with production to begin in the region in November, 2023. Market entry in Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific (including Australia) is scheduled for early 2024.
