2024 Polestar 2 Dual Motor Performance Plus is a super trooper EV

It’s hard not to like the Polestar 2. It has all the looks of its sophisticated Volvo cousins, and it gratefully feels more like a normal car than some of the more exuberant electric vehicles out there. It’s also, for better or worse, more expensive than most of them, especially our tester’s dual-motor, Performance Plus configuration. 

All of that, with options, will cost you just shy of $70,000. Not cheap, and it’s hard not to think of how much gas you could buy if you were to spend even $50,000 on a similar vehicle. But that’s beside the point. If you want a unique EV with modern European styling, you’ll no doubt be quite endeared by the Polestar 2 and its offerings. 

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Photo courtesy Polestar Press

Updated styling

For 2024, the Polestar 2 received its most extensive upgrades yet, solidifying its upscale position in the electric vehicle market. For one, the new SmartZone front fascia houses advanced sensor and camera technology, and it gives the car an even more distinct look. 

Tire options have also been updated. Both single and dual-motor base models now feature 19-inch wheels with Michelin all-season tires. The Performance trim steps up to 20-inch wheels with Continental SportContact 6 summer tires.

For those seeking a middle ground, 20-inch Continental PremiumContact 6 summer tires are available as an option for lower trims. We appreciated the grip of the summer tires, but with this much weight and power on tap, we’re sure owners will get well acquainted with their tire shop sooner rather than later. 

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Photo courtesy Polestar Press

Performance upgrades

At this point, every EV is quick, but the dual-motor Performance Plus model is on another level. While the single-motor Polestar 2 is nothing to shake a stick at, with its 295 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque, our dual-motor tester delivered 455 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque — more than enough for daily driving. It’s heavy, though, and you’re reminded of that over any road imperfections.

The dual-motor variants, priced at $56,700 for the base and $64,400 for the Performance Plus, also benefit from a powertrain overhaul. They feature a new synchronous rear motor and an induction front motor, and can reach 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver.

The dual-motor models retain a 75.0-kWh LG Chem battery. The base model’s estimated range is 276 miles, due to a new ability to decouple the front motor. The Performance model, however, sees a slight range decrease to 247 miles. In our real world testing, that range seemed to drop more quickly than expected.

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Photo courtesy Polestar Press

Driving dynamics and interior comfort

The Performance variant's fancy Öhlins dampers provide firm yet adjustable handling. However, those dampers are best suited to being adjusted by a dealer. Our dual-motor model felt agile, responsive and very fast, even though it carries a lot of weight.

The cabin was something of a mixed bag. The seats, as is the case with most Volvos, are excellent. The infotainment features a user-friendly Google based system, adjustable steering weight and regenerative braking. However, storage space is limited and the unusually large and tall center tunnel makes the cabin feel a bit confining. 

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Photo courtesy Polestar Press

Final thoughts 

The Polestar 2 executes its mission well. It’s a stylish EV that’s very safe and is an interesting alternative to the standard competition. However, it is expensive, and the interior isn’t all that practical or spacious. Every EV is fast these days, so manufacturers such as Polestar are going to have to find new and more competitive ways to differentiate themselves, especially as range increases and prices come down.

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Highs

• Attractive, modern styling

• Feels well-built

• Performance Plus trim offers a lot of power

• Awesome seats and interior materials

• Regenerative braking isn’t overly aggressive

Lows

• Expensive when loaded with options

• Tight cabin with little storage space

• No tax incentive

• Feels heavy; dampers are a challenge to adjust

FAQs

Is it good for families? 

Given how limited the interior space is, we would not recommend it for families.

Is the Polestar 2 fun to drive? 

It’s fast — but every EV is fast. The steering and dampers are adjustable, so while it’s definitely more fun than some EVs, we wouldn’t go as far as to call it a sports car. 

*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.