As an EV enthusiast, you likely already know about Polestar‘s impressive electric vehicles. This innovative Swedish automaker burst onto the scene in 2017 with a focus on premium sustainability. Already, their sporty Polestar 2 fastback turns heads from LA to Stockholm.
But Polestar isn‘t resting on their laurels. They have two new electric SUVs in the pipeline that aim to shake up the growing crossover market: the 2023 Polestar 3 and the 2024 Polestar 4. You‘re probably wondering how these sibling SUVs compare and which one is right for you. Read on as I break down the key specs and features in an easy-to-digest side-by-side format.
Overview
First, let‘s level-set on precisely what Polestar has cooking with these two new models:
Polestar 3 – A 5-seat electric midsize SUV with ample range and performance. Offered in standard Long Range Dual Motor and Performance Pack trims. On sale in 2023 starting from $83,900.
Polestar 4 – A sportier 5-seat electric midsize coupe SUV. Available in single or dual motor variants, and also Performance Pack models. Arrives in 2024 likely starting around $60,000.
As you can see, both of these electric SUVs promise stirring performance along with ample practicality. But with different shapes and configurations, they also take unique approaches. Keep reading as I detail precisely how they differ and how each one caters to specific priorities and lifestyles.
Exterior Design
Let‘s kick things off by analyzing the exterior design differences between these two EVs. As Polestar‘s first crack at an electric SUV, the Polestar 3 features a pretty traditional two-box crossover shape. Check out the key design details in this handy table:
| Polestar 3 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|
| Traditional upright SUV profile | Sporty coupe SUV silhouette |
| Boxy with maximum interior space | Sweeping roofline limits rear headroom |
| 8.3 inches of ground clearance | Only 6.5 inches of ground clearance |
| Stands 71.1 inches tall | Stands 63 inches tall |
| Wider stance enhances stability | Lower, wider stance suits performance |
With its tall roof, the Polestar 3 definitely looks like a capable family crossover. I really like aspects such as the powerful haunches over the rear wheels – reminding us of Polestar‘s performance pedigree.
Meanwhile, the Polestar 4 goes in a radically different direction. Its curving coupe-like roofline and tapering greenhouse give it the silhouette of a luxury sports car. Just compare those dimensions again – at 63 inches tall the Polestar 4 will have a much lower center of gravity than its tall sibling. That wide, planted stance promises agile handling.
So when it comes to exterior design, these SUVs cater to different preferences. The upright Polestar 3 prioritizes maximum interior space, while the Polestar 4 offers a daring, performance-oriented style. Honestly, I think they both look fantastic while fulfilling different roles.
Exterior Design Winner: Tie
Powertrain and Performance
Now, let‘s move onto the motors that motivate these electric SUVs. As a self-professed EV enthusiast like you, I know that performance and especially acceleration are top priorities. Well, both Polestar models promise to thrill, just in slightly different ways.
Check out this head-to-head powertrain comparison:
| Polestar 3 | Polestar 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Motor | Dual Motor | Single Rear Motor |
| Base Power | 489 hp, 669 lb-ft | 272 hp |
| Performance Model | Dual Motor w/ Performance Pack: 510 hp, 671 lb-ft | Dual Motor: 517 hp |
| 0-60 mph Time | 4.7 seconds (4.5 seconds w/ Performance Pack) | 3.7 seconds (est.) |
Polestar will offer the 3 in Standard and Performance versions, while the 4 will have Single or Dual Motor options, also with Performance upgrades available. Now, focusing just on those Dual Motor Performance models, the Polestar 4 is stated to have more horsepower. And with its lighter weight body, expect even sharper acceleration.
My expert conclusion? While both will offer stirring acceleration, the Polestar 4 will be the top performer. Just look at that sub four-second 0-60 mph estimate! Of course, I can‘t fully judge until I get behind the wheel, but on paper, the 4 looks like an absolute speed demon.
Performance and Powertrain Winner: Polestar 4
Range and Charging Ability
I don‘t know about you, but I love taking long road trips in my EV. Whether heading up the Pacific Coast Highway or making a weekend dash to Joshua Tree, ample range and fast charging are essential. Both the Polestar 3 and 4 will deliver on those fronts, but there are some key differences as I detail below:
Range
|Polestar 3| Up to 300 miles|
|Polestar 4|Up to 372 miles (single motor)|
Charging Speed
|Polestar 3| 10-80% in 30 minutes|
|Polestar 4| 10-80% in 20 minutes (est)|
The Polestar 3 promises an ample 300 miles from its large battery pack – not bad at all. But rumor suggests the single motor Polestar 4 may stretch up to 372 miles on a charge, thanks to better aerodynamics and lower weight. I expect the Dual Motor 4 to match the 300 mile max of its sibling.
Now for charging, Polestar says the 3 can rejuice from 10-80% in just half an hour at 200+ kW chargers. Pretty quick if you ask me! Initial estimates suggest the 4 will charge even faster thanks to 800V system architecture, but I‘ll have to wait for official confirmation.
With its extended single motor range and speedy charging, I give the Polestar 4 the slight edge here. But rest assured the 3 also delivers ample real-world range for adventures.
Range and Charging Winner: Polestar 4
Passenger and Cargo Capacity Comparison
Here‘s an area where that different body shape really makes an impact. As you can see in the table below, the traditionally shaped Polestar 3 offers impressive passenger and gear room:
Polestar 3
- 5 passenger capacity
- 41.1 inches of rear legroom
- 17.1 cubic feet rear cargo space
Polestar 4
- 5 passenger capacity
- 35.6 inches rear legroom
- 14.3 cubic feet cargo space
The Polestar 4‘s swooping coupe roofline looks undeniably sporty. But it comes at the cost of reduced rear passenger and cargo space compared to the boxier 3. Still over 14 cubic feet behind the second row isn‘t too shabby for an electric coupe SUV. But the Polestar 3 is decisively more functional.
So if you regularly haul passengers and gear, I suggest going with the 3. But the 4 still packs decent utility into its stylish shape. Prioritize based on your needs!
Passenger and Cargo Capacity Winner: Polestar 3
Technology and Connectivity Features
Being new models developed in 2022, both the Polestar 3 and 4 come positively packed with tech. Expect the latest infotainment software, flashy digital displays, and active safety systems as standard. But there are also some key differences:
Software
- Android Automotive OS
- Google Maps Navigation
- Google Voice Assistant
- In-car apps and OTA updates
Displays
|Polestar 3|12.7-inch digital gauge cluster, 14.5-inch center touchscreen|
|Polestar 4|12.8-inch digital gauge cluster, 15-inch touchscreen + head-up display|
Standout Tech
- Polestar 3: 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system
- Polestar 4: Rear View Camera Mirror for enhanced vision
As you can see, both models come loaded with Google‘s excellent Android Automotive software, promising intuitive controls and navigation. The Polestar 4 does have larger center touchscreens and TFT displays, while exclusively offering a head-up display to put key data right in the driver‘s line of sight.
But the real kicker is that unique rearview camera mirror found only in the 4. It gives drivers vastly improved vision versus conventional mirrors for confidence on the road. I absolutely love such innovative features!
Both SUVs impress, but the Polestar 4 nudges ahead with its novel camera mirror tech. Expect continual software improvements too thanks to OTA capabilities.
Technology and Connectivity Winner: Polestar 4
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Modern driver assistance systems and active safety tech effectively reduce accidents, so I always prioritize them in my EV buying decisions. Fortunately both of these upcoming Polestars come equipped with the latest gear:
Safety Features
- Forward collision warning and AEB
- Blind spot information system
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Lane keeping assistant
- Lane centering control
- Adaptive cruise control
As I detailed earlier, the Polestar 4 also brings that innovative rearview camera mirror. With almost no blind spots, it provides vastly improved situational awareness compared to conventional mirrors and windows. I love how Polestar creatively enhanced safety through smart design.
Safety and Driver Assistance Winner: Polestar 4
Polestar 4 vs Polestar 3 Pricing
Finally, let‘s take a peek at expected pricing. I‘ll focus on base MSRPs excluding delivery:
|Polestar 3| From $83,900|
|Polestar 4| Around $60,000 (estimated)|
Due to higher performance parts like its 800V electrical architecture, the Polestar 4 should undercut its taller sibling a bit in base form. I‘m estimating around $60,000 to start for the single motor model. Even entry-level, that‘s seriously quick for the money!
Of course, fully loading these electric SUVs with features could push the final MSRP over six figures. But both offer relatively affordable access to cutting-edge EV performance and technology. Not bad at all by modern luxury electric standards if you ask me.
Pricing Winner: Polestar 4
Verdict: Which Electric SUV Is Right For You?
So there you have it – a detailed side-by-side breakdown of Polestar‘s two incoming electric SUVs. By now, I hope their individual strengths and ideal buyer profiles are clear:
2023 Polestar 3
- Prioritizes passenger and cargo utility
- Excellent real-world range and rapid charging
- Impressive yet accessible performance
- Most buyers should consider the Polestar 3 for practicality
2024 Polestar 4
- Stunning coupe silhouette turns heads
- Category-leading acceleration and tech
- Innovative rear camera mirror boosts safety
- Ideal for buyers wanting a fast, futuristic SUV
Honestly, you can‘t go wrong with either of these electric SUVs. They both blend sustainability with serious performance in unique packages. But I hope breaking down those key metrics makes your buying decision easier.
For maximum passenger and cargo flexibility in an EV SUV, go Polestar 3. But aspiring EV thrill-seekers will love the lower, meaner Polestar 4 coupe and its cutting-edge camera mirror. Both deliver style, performance and cutting-edge tech.
Now I‘m even more hyped to get behind the wheel once they officially launch! Hopefully you found this detailed spec comparison helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Jake
EV Enthusiast and Blogger
