Photo: Polestar
Polestar today revealed its first SUV, the much anticipated Polestar 3, which will try to stand out from other electric luxury SUVs and crossovers with unique Scandinavian styling and a focus on performance.
Built on a different platform than the Polestar 2 sedan, this new vehicle will go on sale in North America in the fall of next year as a 2024 model. The first units will come from China before production starts at the Volvo plant in South Carolina in mid-2024.
Sporty and Aerodynamic
Polestar designers put a lot of emphasis on aerodynamics. In addition to its coupe-like silhouette, the Polestar 3 features a front aero wing integrated into the hood, a second aero wing integrated into the rear spoiler and rear aero blades. Even the 21-inch wheels are aerodynamically optimized.
Photo: Polestar
The signature LED daytime running lights are just one part of the uniquely shaped, “dual-blade” headlights, while the “SmartZone” grille (concealing various ADAS sensors) is smaller and completely closed. In the rear, the Polestar 2’s taillight signature is turned upside down and given a 3D effect.
Sustainable and Connected
Under the full-length panoramic roof, the materials used in the Polestar 3 were selected for their sustainability credentials. These materials include bio-attributed MicroTech upholstery, animal welfare-certified leather and a fully traceable wool upholstery.
Photo: Polestar
In the tech department, the Polestar 3 is the first vehicle from the Swedish brand to feature centralized computing with the NVIDIA DRIVE core computer, which processes data from the 12 external sensors, five radars and five cameras to enable next-generation driver-assistance safety features and driver monitoring.
Android Automotive OS is the in-car operating system, co-developed with Google and fronted by a 14.5-inch centre display. The system is powered by a next-generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies to deliver high-definition displays, premium quality surround sound and seamless connectivity throughout the vehicle. Naturally, over-the-air software updates are part of the mix, too.
Photo: Polestar
Up to 517 Horsepower
As mentioned earlier, the Polestar 3 focuses on performance and thus generates more power than the Polestar 2. With dual electric motors, output is rated at 489 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque. With the optional Performance Pack ($7,000), it raises to 517 hp and 671 lb-ft—way more than the Audi e-tron or Volvo C40 Recharge but less than the BMW iX.
Adjustable one-pedal driving is included with the Polestar 3, while a decoupling function is also available for the rear electric motor, allowing the vehicle to run only on the front electric motor to save energy under certain circumstances.
Photo: Polestar
Speaking of which, the 111kWh battery is projected to deliver a range of up to 482 km based on the EPA test cycle. That’s great. And a standard heat pump will help preserve range in cold temperatures. Furthermore, the Polestar 3 is equipped for two-way charging, enabling future potential for vehicle-to-grid and plug-and-charge capabilities.
A quick note about the adaptive air suspension, which allows the SUV to alternate between comfort and dynamic suspension characteristics. The Polestar 3 can adjust its active damper velocity electronically once every two milliseconds.
The 2024 Polestar 3 will start at $97,400 in Canada and you should know that orders are now being taken online.
Keyword: All-New 2024 Polestar 3 is an Electric Luxury SUV With Performance in Mind