2024 Polestar 2: The Swedish Electric Sedan Keeps Getting Better

Denver, Colorado—In case you don’t know already, the Polestar 2 is getting a significant update for the 2024 model year. The cosmetic revisions are subtle, but when it comes to power, range and driving dynamics, watch out.

The Car Guide was invited to test drive a pair of cars on Colorado’s Peak-to-Peak Highway, where EV performance is not affected by the rarified air unlike conventionally powered vehicles. These included a Long Range Dual Motor model with the Performance Pack and a Long Range Single Motor model.

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The 2024 Polestar 2 features a redesigned front end with a closed grille. The company calls it the “SmartZone” as it hosts some of the vehicle’s most important active safety features, including the front-facing camera and mid-range radar. What’s more, the 20-inch forged alloy wheels in the Performance Pack have been updated and paired with Continental performance tires, while Michelin all-season tires are now available for the standard 19-inch wheels.

That’s pretty much it in terms of exterior highlights. As mentioned up top, the biggest changes are those you can’t see.

More Powerful Motors

For 2024, the various Polestar 2 models benefit from next-generation electric motors and inverters along with faster-charging batteries. The single-motor variant is now rear-wheel driven, powered by a newly developed permanent magnet motor and silicon carbide inverter. It has a power output of 220 kW/295 hp (increased from 170 kW/228 hp) and peak torque of 361 lb-ft. (up from 243 lb-ft.). The 0-100 km/h sprint time has been cut from 7.4 seconds to 6.2 seconds.

You can immediately feel the difference under acceleration, which positively addresses the biggest shortcoming of the previous single-motor model. The Polestar 2 becomes way more fun to drive as the extra power and torque make the car’s heavy weight less of a problem. If you don’t need all-wheel drive, it will prove more than satisfying in daily driving situations.

Not only that, but it undercuts the dual-motor variant by $8,000. Oh, and maximum range is now rated at 515 km by Natural Resources Canada—the longest of any Polestar 2—thanks to a new 82 kWh battery.

The Long Range Dual Motor model equipped with the Performance Pack cranks things up a notch by increasing output to 335 kW/449 hp (310 kW/416 hp without the Performance Pack). Peak torque is a formidable 546 lb-ft. If you’re in a rush, the sportiest Polestar 2 will take you to triple-digit speeds in 4.3 seconds. On the flip side, range drops to 397 km due to the larger wheels and smaller 78kWh battery.

Interestingly, customers selecting the Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor can boost power from 416 hp to 449 hp via an optional software update. This way, they can do without the 21-inch alloys, Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and gold-coloured seat belts if they want.

While climbing the Rockies, the dual-motor Polestar 2 with the Performance Pack was a real treat to exploit including during passing manoeuvres. Since the electronic AWD system has a rear-wheel bias, the car proves more spirited and more playful, not to mention sharper in corners. Steering response can be adjusted (three modes), with the Firm setting enabling great feedback. A front motor disconnect function even steps in automatically when full power is not required in order to maximize efficiency. Towing capacity is 2,000 lbs for all models, provided the trailer has its own brakes.

Pricing Details

The 2024 Polestar 2 carries a base MSRP of $54,950, an increase of $1,000 from the outgoing model. Dual-motor units start at $62,950, up $4,000 from the 2023 iteration. Before you get mad, consider this: the Pilot Pack, previously a $4,700 option, now comes as standard equipment. It includes Pilot Assist driver assistance aids, Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Stop Assist, Rear Collision Warning and Mitigation plus LED front fog lights with cornering function.

The optional Plus Pack for $3,000, which was previously $5,700, includes a range-enhancing heat pump, premium sound by Harman Kardon, a large panoramic moonroof (no sunshade to prevent the cabin from getting hot, sadly), heating for the steering wheel, rear seats and wiper nozzles, and an interior air quality system, among other additions. 

Finally, the Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor with the Performance Pack retails from $75,200. This includes both the Pilot Pack and Plus Pack. By the way, despite the raised prices, all Polestar 2 models qualify for the federal government’s iZEV incentive of $5,000, and up to $4,000 in British Columbia and $7,000 in Quebec.

Bottom Line

The 2024 Polestar 2 is stronger, more efficient and more fun than its predecessor, with more generous content, too. Styling is mildly updated, but the enhancements under the body are remarkable.