Polestar’s electric fastback, the Polestar 2, delivers more power, range and content for the new model year — along with a higher sticker price. The 2024 model arrives in August.
The updated Polestar 2, like its XC40 and C40 siblings from major shareholder Volvo, receives a new-generation permanent magnet electric motor and new silicon carbide inverters to help boost efficiency and performance. It also gets larger, improved lithium ion batteries.
For 2024, the single-motor Polestar 2 starts at $51,300, including shipping — a 3 percent premium over the current model. The single-motor variant shifts from front- to rear-wheel drive.
A new motor produces 299 hp, 68 hp over the current model. The car promises 320 miles of driving range and a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.9 seconds.
The dual-motor Polestar 2 now starts at $56,700, including shipping — a 6 percent price hike over the 2023 model. The increase is offset by a previously optional $3,400 driver-assistance and safety package now included as standard equipment.
An all-wheel-drive variant, now with a rear-drive bias, produces 421 hp and delivers up to 276 miles of driving range. The front motor can be disengaged when not needed to boost efficiency and extend range.
The Polestar 2, which launched in 2020, is the Volvo affiliate’s sole mainstream model. The automaker delivered 9,874 vehicles in the U.S. last year.
A fleet of more powerful, higher-priced Polestar models aimed at U.S. consumers, including a midsize crossover, crossover coupe, large sedan and roadster, will arrive over the next few years.