Polestar 3 Electric SUV Review: Premium Rival Tested
Polestar 3: Luxury Electric SUV Contender Tested
The luxury electric SUV segment just gained a formidable Scandinavian contender. After testing the Polestar 3 on Spanish backroads, I can confirm this near-5-meter vehicle punches above its weight. Polestar positions it against Mercedes, Audi, BMW, and its Volvo EX90 cousin, but does it justify its $131,500 starting price? Let's break down what makes this SUV unique.
Premium Positioning and Specifications
Polestar's pricing strategy aligns with its premium aspirations. Australian buyers get two trims:
- Long Range Dual Motor: $131,500 (21-inch alloys)
- Plus/Pilot Pack variant: $143,200 (22-inch alloys, rear privacy glass)
Both models share a 111kWh battery delivering 560-610km range. Standard features reflect the luxury positioning:
- 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen with native Android OS
- 9-inch digital driver display
- Panoramic glass roof and power tailgate
- Launch edition Bowers & Wilkins 25-speaker sound system
- Comprehensive Polestar Advanced Safety Suite
The video highlights Polestar's ethical sourcing, including carpets from discarded fishing nets and upholstery from recycled bottles. This commitment extends beyond marketing, with tangible sustainability choices throughout the cabin.
Scandinavian Design Meets Engineering
Polestar's design philosophy shines through aerodynamic efficiency. The teardrop shape and discreet bonnet wing minimize drag, optimizing range. Despite its substantial dimensions, clever styling makes the Polestar 3 appear more compact on the road.
The cabin exemplifies Scandinavian minimalism:
- Uncluttered, ethically sourced materials
- Meticulous attention to tactile details
- Intuitive interface with custom-designed icons
- Excellent second-row space (though cargo capacity is modest at 484L)
One notable omission: Apple CarPlay isn't available at launch, though Polestar promises an OTA update later this year. This could frustrate iOS users initially.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
Our test focused on the dual-motor performance variant (380kW/910Nm, 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds). Key observations:
- Acceleration: Linear power delivery without excessive drama
- Handling: Borg Warner torque vectoring sends power to the outside wheel, enhancing cornering agility
- Suspension: Standard adaptive air suspension balances comfort and control
- Braking: Brembo four-piston calipers offer confident stopping power
The Polestar 3 defies its 2.6-tonne weight with surprising nimbleness. Drive modes adjust suspension firmness effectively:
- Standard mode: Compliant for long-distance comfort
- Nimble/Firm modes: Sharper responses for enthusiastic driving
Energy recuperation transitions seamlessly between coasting and one-pedal driving. This big SUV delivers a legitimate fun-to-drive factor typically reserved for lighter vehicles.
Market Position and Verdict
Polestar targets established luxury brands, and the 3 makes a compelling case. Its advantages include:
- Distinctive Scandinavian design language
- Class-leading sustainability implementation
- Engaging driving dynamics uncommon in large EVs
- Competitive range and premium features
Potential buyers should note:
- Cargo space trails segment rivals
- Apple CarPlay delay may inconvenience some
- Premium pricing positions it against entrenched competitors
Actionable Checklist for Buyers:
- Test rear cargo space with your typical luggage/gear
- Verify Apple CarPlay timeline with your local dealer
- Compare real-world range estimates against Audi Q8 e-tron/BMW iX
- Experience the torque vectoring on winding roads
- Evaluate the infotainment system's Android-based workflow
Recommended Resources:
- InsideEVs for competitor range comparisons (excellent real-world testing)
- ABRP (A Better Route Planner) for trip planning with Polestar 3's charging curve
- Polestar Owners Forum for hands-on ownership experiences
The Polestar 3 successfully enters the luxury electric SUV arena with distinctive character and surprising dynamics. It challenges German rivals not through imitation, but through authentic Scandinavian innovation.
Which feature—sustainable materials or handling prowess—would most influence your premium EV decision? Share your priorities below.
