Polestar 2 Quick Facts
- Original starting price: $61,200 (including a $1,300 destination fee)
- Class: Electric Fastback
- Competitors: Audi e-tron, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model 3,
- KBB.com Fair Purchase Price
Introduction
The 2021 Polestar 2 is an all-electric 5-seat fastback crossover. Geely, the parent company of Volvo Cars, spun off Polestar as a new brand in 2017 with the launch of the Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid. The all-wheel-drive Polestar 2 is new for 2021, with broader production and more attainable pricing than the exotic Polestar 1.
The Polestar 2 falls in the space between a crossover and a sedan and is powered by a 78-kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors — one front and one rear. With a nifty hatch and svelte design, it is an attractive option with a range of 233 miles on a full charge. Competing in a growing class of electric vehicles, the 5-door Polestar 2 gives the Tesla Model 3, its main competitor, a run for its money and stands tall against a crop of competitors, including the Hyundai Kona Electric, Chevrolet Bolt, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the Audi e-Tron.
Polestar CPO Warranty Program Highlights
- Limited warranty: Two years/unlimited mileage after expiration of new car warranty
- Powertrain warranty: Two years/unlimited mileage after expiration of the new car warranty
- Roadside Assistance: Included during the warranty period
- Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Polestar
Key Competitors
KBB Review Highlights
Polestar is a relative newcomer to the electric vehicle (EV) space and the North American market. Launched initially as a Swedish racing team in 1996, the brand evolved and began creating enhanced Volvos and performance-minded prototypes under the name Polestar Performance. In 2015, Volvo and its Chinese parent company, Geely Holding, bought the brand, and in 2017, Polestar launched as a separate brand focusing on electrified performance vehicles.
Fast-forward to 2019, Polestar 2 was teased from the brand’s Gothenburg headquarters and debuted later the same year at the Geneva Auto Show. Stunning and eye-catching, it marked the start of a new age for the brand and created a moment for a new contender in the EV segment. Wrapped in a package that is part XC40 SUV and part S60 sedan, the Polestar 2 is purpose-built to fill a void and bring “something different” to the space. Mission accomplished: With sculpted lines ending in a gentle fastback roof with a liftback, four doors, polished body surfaces, and a bold lighting structure, the Polestar 2 looks right at home with its Volvo cousins.
Premium vegan textiles applied with a minimalist’s hand dress the interior, smart touches run throughout, and a prominent 11-inch smartphone-enabled touchscreen adorns the cabin above the center console. Most features are controlled through the touchscreen, though a few are accessible through the digital cluster. Space is conservatively used, and the cabin feels open and fresh. The seating is comfortable and flexible, with safety belts for five and a 60/40 folding rear bench seat to increase cargo space in the hatchback. The front trunk (“frunk”) is petite, with less than two cubic feet of space.
The 2021 Polestar 2 uses a pair of 204-horsepower electric motors and a steel and aluminum-encased, lithium-ion battery to generate 408 hp and 487 lb-ft of torque. Handing with deft ease and controlled agility, the Polestar 2 is a playful drive. While less elegant than the performance-minded I-Pace and Model 3, the ride quality is smooth and impressive. All-wheel drive plus the steering responsiveness add to the experience’s finesse. 2021 Polestar 2 owners can purchase an over-the-air update to upgrade software and horsepower for a one-time fee.
The 2021 Polestar 2’s standard equipment includes four USB ports, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, a heated steering wheel, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a power liftgate. The Acoustic Vehicle Alert System, which notifies pedestrians of a vehicle approaching with subtle sounds, is a nice touch. The Plus Pack adds a roof-spanning sunroof, a Harmon Kardon sound system, and Pilot Assist. Harkening to the brand’s performance roots, buyers can customize their Polestar 2 with a Performance Pack that adds Ohlins shock absorbers, gold seatbelts, larger wheels, and Brembo brakes with gold calipers. Metallic paint, and dreamy Nappa leather.
See Kelley Blue Book’s Expert Review of the 2021 Polestar 2
If you’re ready to shop, see certified pre-owned 2021 Polestar
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