Polestar is making a major update to its baseline Polestar 2 EV starting with the 2024 model year, featuring an updated front end bodywork similar to the new Polestar 3 model — for better “vision.”
Notably, the new bodywork includes Polestar’s SmartZone, which replaces the traditional grille area with an array of camera and radar sensors used for safety and driver assistance. According to the company, the SmartZone signifies a “shift from ‘breathing’ through a front grille to ‘seeing’ the road ahead.”
The 2024 Polestar 2 will also receive substantial performance increases with all-new electric motors, a more powerful battery, sustainability improvements and, for the first time in a Polestar product, available rear-wheel drive.
“Typically in the car industry, a facelift introduces superficial visual changes that often destroy the original intention of the car’s design theme,” said Polestar CEO, Thomas Ingenlath. “With the new model year Polestar 2, we rather went below the surface and upgraded substantial tech and mechanical components of the electric drivetrain. This is the best Polestar 2 yet, and with the updated front design with the new SmartZone, the best looking one, too.”
Polestar history
Polestar was established in 1996 to produce high-performance versions of Volvo products. The idea was similar to the Mercedes-Benz relationship with AMG or BMW’s M sub-brand. Volvo was purchased by Chinese automaker Geely in 2010, and Polestar was acquired by the corporation in 2015.
In 2017 Polestar moved away from producing high performance variants of Volvo products to its own line focused on electrification. The Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid was launched in 2018, and the Polestar 2 EV arrived in 2019. The Polestar 2 was the first car in the world to feature an infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS with Google Assistant built-in.
The Polestar 1 was always a low-production specialty model, but the Polestar 2 surpassed the 100,000-unit production mark in late 2022. Polestar launched the all-electric Polestar 3 as a midsize crossover SUV in 2022, and plans are set for Polestar models 4, 5 and 6 to launch during the next three years as a compact crossover, executive car and sports car, respectively.
Driveline updates and range improvements
As part of the 2024 refresh, Polestar will update the electric motors and inverters in both the single-motor and dual-motor Polestar 2 variants. The new components are designed to increase efficiency and performance.
The single-motor variant is now rear-wheel driven, powered by a newly developed permanent magnet motor and silicon carbide inverter. The new motor has a power output of 299 horsepower (up from 231) and is optimized for maximum efficiency and 361 pound-feet of torque (up from 243). The 0-60 mph sprint time will be 5.9 seconds, down from 7 seconds.
The dual-motor AWD Polestar 2 now has a rear-drive bias for sportier driving performance. The new rear motor is the primary drive source, supported on the front axle by a new asynchronous motor. This enables higher total system output of 421 hp and 546 lb-ft (increased from the original 408 hp and 467 lb-ft).
Polestar says the new driveline delivers vastly improved traction, greater overall efficiency and higher performance. The dual-motor variant will do the 0-60 test in 4.3 seconds. For best efficiency, the front motor can now be disengaged completely when it’s not needed. When the driver wants more power, the front motor re-engages instantly and seamlessly.
A total of 455 hp is available with the optional Performance Pack, and that reduces the 0-60 mph sprint time even further to 4.1 seconds. Notably, the Performance Pack will be available to purchase as a downloadable over-the-air software upgrade for eligible long-range dual-motor cars.
“Changing from front- to rear-wheel drive in the single-motor variants, and re-calibrating the torque ratio in the dual-motor variant for an increased rear-wheel drive feel, elevates the Polestar 2 driving experience to a whole new level,” said Joakim Rydholm, Head of Chassis Development at Polestar.
“The updated Polestar 2 is an even more playful and agile car, retaining its compactness and complete sense of control, while at the same time becoming more mature with added comfort.”
Polestar expects range extensions for both versions based on improved power delivery from the new motors. The front motor disconnect function on the long-range dual-motor variant is expected to boost range up to 270 miles on the EPA test cycle.
The long-range single-motor version will get a new, larger battery of 82 kWh, which Polestar expects to earn a 300-mile range rating. Maximum DC fast charging speed for the single-motor version will be 205 kW.
Expanded standard equipment
Polestar is also adding more standard equipment for the refreshed model. Specifically for North America, the long-range dual-motor Polestar 2 now includes the Pilot Pack as standard. The Pilot Pack features blind-spot monitoring with steering support, and rear cross-traffic alert with brake support, a rear collision warning mitigation system, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, pilot assist, auto-dimming door mirrors and LED front fog lights with cornering assist. The wireless phone charger is now also standard on all versions.
When the 2024 Polestar 2 is optioned with the Performance Pack, the Plus Pack will be included as well. The Performance Pack includes Brembo brakes, 20-inch forged alloy wheels, Öhlins Dual Flow Valve dampers, the Polestar Engineered performance software upgrade and signature gold seat belts.
The 2024 Polestar 2 is available to order now at Polestar.com, with first deliveries starting later this year.