In general, the Polestar 2 sedan will not be completely redesigned for the 2024 model year. The fact is that there will be significant changes to the model. These are not immediately visible to the untrained eye. But they are still significant.
Compared to the 2023 Polestar 2, the 2024 model year units now have more range (+80 km for the single-motor model; +25 km for the dual-motor model), more power and more torque.
The single-engine Polestar 2 receives an additional 50 kilowatts (68 hp) to increase output to 220 kW (299 hp). Torque increases from 330 to 489 Newton meters, an increase of 159 Nm (118 pound-feet).
The main change is the transition from (front) traction to drive for the model with just one electric motor.
For those concerned about driving a rear-wheel drive electric vehicle in the winter, it is important to understand that the weight distribution is different than that of an equivalent internal combustion engine model. The weight of the batteries is distributed over a larger part of the vehicle.
That’s why the folks at Polestar say winter driving is easy when the 2 is equipped with good winter tires. In any case, the 140 kilometers covered in a rear-wheel-drive Polestar 2 on the winding roads between Denver and Estes Park, Colorado, were mastered with all-wheel-drive worthy ease and maneuverability. What we saw on the way back with a dual motor unit.
Especially since Polestar allows a “preload” at the rear of its all-wheel drive models. This means that the power and torque are distributed to the rear. That gives the whole thing dynamism.
New grille
However, the most obvious change to the 2024 model, the one that will make someone say “That’s a 2024 Polestar 2!” is undoubtedly its grille.
According to Polestar, the reason is quite simple. The SmartZone, which houses a front camera and a mid-range radar, was introduced with the arrival of the next Polestar 3 model. The fake grille is gone. And we have to admit that the new look isn’t bad at all.
Revised prices
The automaker is offering its Polestar 2 sedan with a retail price starting at $54,950 for the single-engine model. For an additional $8,000 (at $62,950), the buyer can get four-wheel drive with two electric motors, available as standard with the Pilot Pack. This option was previously offered for $4700.
Transportation and preparation costs are $2,500. Thanks to its price list, the Polestar 2, both front-wheel and four-wheel drive, is entitled to two government rebates, one of $5,000 from the federal government and one of $7,000 from Quebec (valid after fees and Steer).
More models will follow soon
This presentation of the new Polestar 2 in Denver was also an opportunity for the manufacturer to say more about the models that will soon be added to its catalog.
Expect at least four more Polestar models to hit the market in the not-too-distant future. First, the Polestar 3 luxury SUV celebrated its Canadian premiere at the Fully Charged Show in Vancouver, which takes place from September 8th to 10th.
The manufacturer offers this SUV at a starting price of $97,400. Orders for this vehicle with a range of more than 500 km opened in October 2022.
Next comes the Polestar 4, a sports SUV whose retail price will be higher than the Polestar 2 but lower than the 3. Polestar America CEO Gregor Hembrough suggested a price of $60,000 (approximately $82,000). Publication is scheduled for next year.
Then two more models follow. They were designed and developed at the manufacturer’s MIRA research center in the UK. The Polestar 5 will be a four-door luxury GT sports car priced at $100,000 (approximately $137,000). Finally, the Polestar 6 will take the form of a 2+2 roadster and will be priced at over US$150,000 ($205,000).
So far, Polestar has already produced more than 150,000 units and its goal for this year is to produce more than 60,000 units worldwide.
The manufacturer promotes online sales and delivery in its spaces, which are more like stores where there are only a few vehicles. “You’re not going to see 50 cars in a Polestar Space waiting to be bought,” Mr Hembrough said. “We also benefit from this market [du véhicule électrique] and in this rapidly growing segment. »
Remember that Polestar was founded in 1996 as a racing company and official partner of Volvo in the Swedish manufacturer’s performance division. Polestar held this role until 2015. This year the Polestar 1 and 2 concepts were introduced.
According to the CEO, his company represents the “best of both worlds.” “We benefit from the stability and well-established foundation of a reputable manufacturer, Volvo, with the agility of a start-up,” he concludes.
Transportation and accommodation costs associated with this report were covered by Polestar.
(Images: Paul-Robert Raymond and Polestar; Editor: Frédéric Matte)