Polestar 4: Press impressions from Hällered Proving Grounds
Recently, we took our latest creation, Polestar 4, to an exclusive behind-the-scenes press event at the Hällered Proving Grounds, just under an hour east of Polestar HQ in Gothenburg, Sweden. Journalists from various outlets and markets around the world were invited to get a feel for this new addition to the Polestar family. Here's what went down.
Late last year, Polestar 3 took on Hällered Proving Grounds for an exclusive behind-the-scenes press drive; now it’s time for Polestar 4 to take centre stage. This marks the fourth addition to Polestar’s lineup, and it’s caused a stir for automotive journalists for more reasons than one. With its unconventional design, including an eliminated rear window and digital rear-view mirror, it's breaking norms and turning heads. But does it live up to the expectations of another new Polestar? According to those who took it for a spin, the answer is a resounding yes.
One of the most headline-grabbing features of Polestar 4 is its unique design choice, which eliminates the rear window in favour of a digital mirror. While this decision initially raised eyebrows, our designers have justified it by creating a more spacious interior for rear passengers and enhancing aerodynamics.
After a brief stint behind the wheel, journalists found the design did not compromise visibility or safety, as the digital rear-view mirror provided a clear and unobstructed view of the surroundings. Rear passengers were treated to ample legroom and reclining seats, further enhancing the overall comfort of the ride.
One journalist remarked: “Not only is the Polestar 4 a great-looking car in the flesh, featuring all sorts of innovative new design touches inside and out, it’s also a cracking good car to drive, with an unusually strong emphasis on serious driver appeal. Not just for an electric car but for any kind of family-orientated car, full stop.”
Stepping inside, Polestar 4 boasts a minimalist yet sophisticated cabin, dominated by a massive 15.4-inch touchscreen interface. Despite the absence of physical buttons, the interface was praised for its user-friendliness and intuitive design. The choice of materials, including the innovative Tailored Knit seat fabric made from recycled PET polyester, further adds to the premium feel of the interior.
But the real test came when they hit the road. Whether driving the rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive models, journalists were unanimous in their praise for the car’s dynamic capabilities. It handled corners with ease, thanks to its responsive steering and well-tuned chassis. And with two motor options to choose from, drivers could tailor their experience to their preferences.
As usual, Joakim Rydholm (Head of Chassis Development) and his team of engineers showcased what Polestar 4 can accomplish when driven by its creators, before switching seats with the journalists.
“But is Joakim’s car good to drive? No. It’s better than that. Exceptional, in fact, and one of few EVs we can’t wait to drive again, just for the hell of it,” one journalist commented.
The single-motor rear-wheel-drive variant impressed with its nimble handling and balanced ride, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a more playful driving experience. On the other hand, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive model with Performance Pack offered blistering acceleration and enhanced traction, showcasing the versatility of the powertrain options.
“The [Polestar] 4’s chassis and drivetrain have been honed by a small team of endearingly obsessive enthusiasts (call them car guys), and their exhaustive work has produced a car that rides, steers, handles, stops and drives with a precision that few others at this level can match, be they ICE or EV propelled,” one journalist said.
Another journalist added: “In everything it does dynamically, the [Polestar] 4 feels like a finely tuned instrument, its steering and damping in particular bordering on the miraculous at times.”
But it wasn't just about straight-line speed and cornering prowess. The Polestar 4's active dampers ensured a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease while offering three different spring rates. Journalists enthused at its ability to strike the perfect balance between sporty agility and refined comfort.
In terms of technology, the Polestar 4 comes fully-loaded, with features such as Google built-in, Apple CarPlay, and fully integrated 5G connectivity as standard. The intuitive infotainment system and crisp display further enhance the driving experience, keeping drivers connected and informed on the go. Most importantly, it features Mobileye’s SuperVision ADAS system as standard that provides industry-leading driver assistance technology from the start, which will expand with added functionality over time.
Overall, the Polestar 4 impressed journalists with its well-rounded performance, striking design, and innovative features. Whether cruising through the city streets or carving up the countryside, Polestar 4 promises to offer an exhilarating and unforgettable driving experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“If it sounds like Polestar’s creatives and engineers appear to have thought of almost everything in this instance, it’s meant to, because they pretty much have,” one journalist concluded.
Explore Polestar 4 here.
01/07
