There's Only 2 Problems with the Polestar 4

Quick Overview

The two main problems with the Polestar 4 are its disappointing real-world range, which yielded only 198 miles on a full charge during cold weather testing (30-50 degrees F), and the lack of a traditional rear window, relying instead on a camera feed displayed in the rearview mirror, which the reviewer found slightly claustrophobic.

Key Points: The Polestar 4 achieved only 198 miles of range from a 100 kWh battery pack during cold weather testing (30-50 degrees F), falling short of the advertised 280 miles EPA range. The vehicle lacks a physical rear window, instead using a camera feed displayed in the digital rearview mirror, which the reviewer found slightly claustrophobic. The dual-motor AWD variant produces 544 HP and 506 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The car features a highly refined and aesthetically pleasing interior with premium materials, including supportive, ventilated, heated, and massaging front seats with yellow accent seatbelts. The infotainment system runs on an Android-based platform, featuring Google Maps integration and wireless Apple CarPlay, though the reviewer noted slight lag when navigating menus. The interior design is minimalist, including a single large volume/play/pause knob on the center console and physical controls only for the driver's display, while HVAC controls are on the central touchscreen. The base configuration is rear-wheel drive with the front axle engaging for performance, and the test model was priced at $62,900 USD.

Context: The video provides a critical review of the Polestar 4, focusing on notable design choices and performance aspects that might deter potential buyers, despite overall positive impressions of its driving dynamics and interior quality. The reviewer specifically compares it against the Polestar 2 and notes the car is built on a ground-up EV architecture, not derived from a Volvo platform.

Detailed Analysis

The reviewer highlights two main drawbacks of the Polestar 4: range performance in cold weather and the design choice regarding the rear window. During testing in 30-50 degree Fahrenheit weather, the car achieved only 198 miles of range from its 100 kWh battery pack, significantly less than the advertised 280 miles EPA estimate. The second major point is the absence of a conventional rear window, replaced by a fixed panel and a camera feed displayed on the digital rearview mirror, a feature the reviewer found slightly claustrophobic, especially for rear passengers. Positives include the car's excellent driving dynamics, feeling smooth even in the softer Range mode, and the high-quality, minimalist interior design featuring supportive sports seats with yellow accents and premium materials. The infotainment system runs on an Android-based OS and integrates Google Maps and wireless Apple CarPlay well, although some screen lag was noted. The car offers a small front trunk (frunk) and a reasonably sized rear trunk with a sub-trunk for storage. The base model is RWD, but the dual-motor version engages the front axle for performance, delivering quick acceleration. The reviewer concludes that while the car has many strong points, these two drawbacks might prevent him from recommending it over the Polestar 2.