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Start for freeThe Polestar 3 has finally arrived, and after an extensive first drive, it's clear this premium electric SUV delivers on its promises. As Polestar's first purpose-built EV, the 3 marks an important step for the brand in establishing itself as a true competitor in the luxury electric vehicle space.
Design and Exterior
The Polestar 3 makes a strong first impression with its sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design. It strikes an excellent balance between sporty and elegant, with clean lines and distinctive details like the "Thor's hammer" LED headlights carried over from other Polestar and Volvo models.
At 192.9 inches long, the Polestar 3 slots between the Tesla Model Y and Model X in size. It has a commanding presence on the road without feeling overly large. The 22-inch wheels on the performance model fill out the wheel arches nicely, though they do impact ride quality somewhat.
Some notable exterior features include:
- Frameless side mirrors
- Distinctive front "smart zone" sensor cluster
- Air curtains integrated into front and rear design
- Power liftgate
- Panoramic glass roof
Overall, the Polestar 3 has a premium, high-quality look befitting its price point. It manages to stand out from the crowd without resorting to overly flashy styling elements.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside, the Polestar 3's interior immediately impresses with its minimalist Scandinavian design and high-quality materials. The cabin feels spacious and airy, with excellent visibility in all directions.
Some key interior highlights:
- 14.5-inch portrait-oriented center touchscreen
- 9-inch digital instrument cluster
- Head-up display
- Recycled and sustainable materials used throughout
- Bowers & Wilkins 25-speaker audio system
- Heated and ventilated front seats
The 14.5-inch infotainment system runs on Google's Android Automotive OS, which provides a smooth and intuitive user experience. The graphics are crisp and responsive, with minimal lag when navigating menus or using apps.
The Google-based system includes built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to apps via the Google Play Store. This allows for seamless integration with your Google account and services.
Some standout technology features:
- Over-the-air software updates
- Phone-as-key functionality
- 360-degree camera system
- Advanced driver assistance features
Interior space is generous, with ample head and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate adults, unlike some competitors in this segment. Cargo space is also competitive at 17.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 49.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Polestar 3 is available in dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration, with a total system output of 489 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque in the performance model. This allows for brisk acceleration, with 0-60 mph taking just 4.6 seconds.
While not the quickest in its class, the Polestar 3 delivers more than enough performance for most drivers. Power delivery is smooth and linear, with instant torque available at any speed.
What really stands out is the Polestar 3's ride and handling balance. The standard air suspension provides a supple, comfortable ride even with the large 22-inch wheels. Body control is excellent, with minimal roll through corners.
The steering is well-weighted and precise, offering good feedback to the driver. While not as razor-sharp as some sports sedans, the Polestar 3 feels nimble and composed for its size.
One unique feature is the rear torque vectoring system, which uses a dual-clutch setup to actively distribute power between the rear wheels. This helps improve cornering performance and stability.
Braking performance is strong, with a firm pedal feel and good modulation. The regenerative braking system is well-tuned, allowing for smooth one-pedal driving in most situations.
Range and Charging
The Polestar 3 is equipped with a 111 kWh battery pack (107 kWh usable), providing an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles in the dual-motor long range model. The performance model sees a slight reduction to 260 miles.
While not class-leading, this range should be sufficient for most drivers' daily needs. The Polestar 3 supports DC fast charging at up to 250 kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions.
Level 2 AC charging is supported at up to 11 kW, which can fully charge the battery in around 11 hours. Polestar includes a 40-amp portable charger with the vehicle, which is a nice touch.
Driver Assistance and Safety
The Polestar 3 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance features, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Automated emergency braking
The available Pilot Pack adds additional features like Pilot Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering for semi-autonomous highway driving.
Safety has always been a priority for Volvo and Polestar, and the 3 continues this tradition with a robust structure and advanced safety systems. While crash test results are not yet available, expectations are high given the brand's track record.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The Polestar 3 is available in two main configurations:
- Long Range Dual Motor: Starting at $83,900
- Long Range Dual Motor with Performance Pack: Starting at $89,900
While not inexpensive, the Polestar 3's pricing is competitive with other premium electric SUVs like the BMW iX and Audi e-tron. Standard equipment is generous, though some desirable features are locked behind option packages.
Conclusion
The Polestar 3 represents a significant step forward for the brand, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and technology. It successfully carves out its own niche in the premium electric SUV segment, providing a refreshing alternative to established players.
While it may not lead the pack in any single area, the Polestar 3 excels in its overall balance and refinement. The thoughtful design, high-quality interior, and well-tuned driving dynamics make it a joy to live with on a daily basis.
Some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Range is good but not class-leading
- Charging speed could be faster given the large battery
- Some may find the minimalist interior design too stark
Overall, the Polestar 3 is a highly impressive offering that should be on the shortlist for anyone shopping in this segment. It successfully combines the best attributes of its Volvo heritage with forward-thinking EV technology, resulting in a vehicle that feels both familiar and futuristic.
For those seeking a premium electric SUV that stands out from the crowd without sacrificing practicality or performance, the Polestar 3 is definitely worth a closer look.
Article created from: https://youtu.be/SKupnlni7vY?feature=shared
