Car review: 2024 Polestar 3
Since starting as a Volvo offshoot, Polestar has transformed into a sporty EV maker. The Polestar 3 underscores the brand’s elements: minimalist styling, high performance and sustainable manufacturing.
Size and value
In the $100,000 plus range, a car’s value can be subjective. Every EV owner wants good range but that means a bigger battery and a higher purchase price. Polestar 3’s impressive 628km range needs a large 111kWh battery pack, which brings the starting price to about $140,000. A cheaper two-wheel-drive version will be available this year. An extra $9000 gets you the performance pack, which sharpens driving dynamics and engine output.
The Polestar 3 is a large SUV, similar to an Audi Q8 or the cheaper Kia EV6 but has a low roof line and balanced proportions that create a sleek look. The lower floor gives generous interior and cargo space, with a recessed area for standing larger luggage.
Design and function
A fixed glass roof creates more headroom but despite the retractable blind, cabin temperatures will be challenged by our hot summers.
Functions and vehicle information are displayed via a 14.5-inch centre screen. Most functions are only accessible via the touchscreen. It’s even needed for simple tasks like adjusting rear-view mirrors and opening the glovebox.
Although the Polestar 3 hasn’t been rated by ANCAP yet, it has Volvo’s safety DNA and is loaded with airbags and active safety assistance systems.
Tech
Two internal cameras learn your normal behaviour, so if you pass out or fall asleep while driving, the cameras will slow the car, pull off the road and stop.
When walking towards the car with the keys, you’re identified as one of six registered driver profiles. A touch of the door handle will load your preferred seating, steering feedback, and one-pedal drive settings. There’s no key or start button. Instead, you sit in the driver’s seat, select a gear and you can take off. The Polestar 3 has 360kW of power and 840Nm of torque delivered by the dual motors – one at each end of the car.
On the road
Polestar 3’s advanced adaptable chassis control comes from dual-chamber air suspension and a 50:50 weight distribution. You’ll enjoy a compliant ride and sporty handling – impressive given it weighs just more than 2.5 tonnes.
The Polestar 3’s 2200kg towing capacity is useful but it’s no off-roader and limited to smaller caravans. It has a fully electric option where the tow-ball arm swings out when needed and retracts when finished.
The bottom line
The Polestar 3 is an SUV on the outside but a sports car on the inside and on the road. It’s one of the best large electric SUVs on the market and the base model is enough for anyone’s needs.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | $141,521 (or $153,689 with performance pack) |
| ANCAP safety rating | Not rated |
| Range | Up to 628km |
| Warranty | Five-year warranty (including service plan) or 100,000km (whichever comes first) and an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty |
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