One EV, two personalities. The 2026 Polestar 4 isn’t the brand’s first performance EV, but it might be its most versatile yet. Despite all the buzz around high performance lately, shoppers still want some efficiency with it, and that’s what the Polestar 4 brings. Is it the best of both worlds? Not quite, but it stands out with dependable powertrain configurations for everyday drivers.
As the Polestar 2 sedan nears retirement, the 4 will take its place as the new face of the brand’s future, and for good reason. The crossover SUV embodies the Polestar vision to make sustainable performance cars. Here’s a closer look at the new Polestar 4.
Power or Comfort, the Options are Open
The Polestar 4’s strongest selling point (arguably) is that it caters to multiple audiences. Fans of spirited driving will appreciate the AWD dual-motor version, which produces 544 hp and 506 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor setup will go a range of 280 miles and do 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. While the single-motor option isn’t as fast (6.5 seconds), it delivers a longer range of 310 miles, and manages 272 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque. No difference in top speed, however, both max out at 124 mph.
Regardless of the powertrain setup, the Polestar 4 puts up a good road attitude. It is quick to release the torque, and with the adaptive dampers, passengers can hardly feel the curb weight of the EV. The steering feels well-weighted, the brake responds promptly, and there are enough drive modes for the adventurous driver. Even better, drivers of the dual-motor version can decouple the front electric motor to get more range.
No Rear Windshield, So What?
Low nose, long wheelbase, raked roofline – the Polestar 4 retains the same coupe-SUV style we saw on earlier Polestar EVs, except it’s lower. Think of it as the sleeker, more aero-focused version of the Polestar 3. Although it’s not so obvious from the outside, the 4 has ditched the rear window. Drivers will see the rear through a digital mirror connected to a camera at the back. It may take some getting used to, but it’s a creative way to keep the SUV compact without sacrificing passenger space. No surprise, then, that it also scores high on minimalism and extends the roofline further back for improved aerodynamics.
The front fascia is simple but also hard to ignore. It is marked by split headlights and an understated grille, while a small Polestar emblem adds a touch of class. Plus, the sculpted body and 22-inch wheels combine to give the impression of an athletic machine out for a spin.
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Airy Cabin But Minimalist to a Fault
The Polestar 4’s interior feels bland, yet it manages to put up a futuristic appeal. Its adjustable flat-bottomed wheel might not excite you as you step in, but the tech presence will. A premium-looking center knob sits within the driver’s reach for media control, and so does the 15.2-inch center display. This time, Polestar changed the screen orientation from portrait to horizontal for easier navigation, since it houses most of the car’s controls.
Buyers also get an optional glass roof for natural lighting. That’s not to say models without the panoramic roof have blind spots, though. The intelligent lighting system keeps the cabin well-lit, even in the back, where the rear window is missing. A Harman audio system with twelve speakers and an optional extra four in the front headrests completes the cozy experience.
All passengers enjoy comfortable power-reclining seats covered in Nappa leather or other textile combinations, depending on the buyer’s choice. There’s enough headroom and legroom for occupants (front and rear) despite the raked roofline. Also, the 18.6 cubic ft of space behind the rear seats can open up to create 54.2 cubic ft with the seats up, not to mention the extra under-floor storage.
Connectivity and Safety Tech
Polestar reached deep into its bag for some of the finest tech. The infotainment system runs on Android Automotive OS, which brings Google Play Built-in and related Google products. The 4 will be the first vehicle to use the Google Live Lane Guidance, a new feature for more accurate lane navigation. It also supports Apple CarPlay and comes with a digital key and mobile app for remote access. Climate settings are adjustable to match different moods, and the best part is, Polestar ensures the EV continues to improve with regular over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Pilot Assist, Advanced Collision Avoidance (ACA) and Adaptive Cruise Control provide standard driving support. Although the HD roof-mounted rear camera isn’t exactly new, it feels like tech from the future, especially on a mass-produced passenger car.
Battery and Charging
Both configurations of the Polestar 4 use the same 400-volt lithium-ion battery with a 100kW usable capacity. It charges from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes on a fast DC charger and about 5.5 hours on a 22kWh AC charger. Sure, that’s nowhere near top-of-the-class charging time, but it’s ahead of rivals like the Cadillac Lyric-V.
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One Car, Two Options, Two Personalities
The 2026 Polestar 4 lets shoppers choose their drive. Its long-range single motor uses the efficient rear-wheel drive powertrain and a passive suspension. It’s fast enough and saves power for longer miles. By comparison, the long-range dual setup with an adjustable suspension is the livelier version. Both powertrain types offer an optional Plus Pack, while the most powerful Performance pack is available only on the dual-motor model.
Entry price for the base trim (single motor) is $57,800, including the destination fee, while the base level on the dual motor costs an additional $6,500. The top Performance Pack comes at $74,300, enough value for the 22-inch Pirelli summer tires and other exclusive perks.
Rivals
In terms of performance, Polestar’s dual motor competes strongly with Tesla Model Y, which returns a 3.7-second time in 3.7 seconds. The 400-V architecture puts it at a disadvantage against rivals like Porsche Macan EV and the Genesis electrified GV70 with 800-V that charges in about 18 minutes in ideal situations. Regardless, the 4 stands out as an all-round EV with nice tech.
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2026 Polestar 4: Coming to America
All factors considered, the Polestar 4 is a compelling ride. It made a strong debut in Asia and Europe and is finally making its way to American buyers. Time will tell how the US audience responds, but it will no doubt remain the best Polestar out there for a while.
