The Polestar 2 gets a new design, new motors, batteries and more.
Having surpassed 100,000 sales across 27 markets, the Polestar 2 has been given a substantial update for the 2024 model year. The changes include an updated design that brings it in line with the design language of the announced Polestar 3. What’s more, the Polestar 2 now features the ‘SmartZone’ camera and radar array, new electric motors and more powerful batteries amongst other things. These changes to the powertrain setup are also reflected on the all-electric XC40 and C40 models from Volvo.
In terms of design, the largest change comes in the form of the closed-off front grille. The new grille cover integrates the ‘SmartZone’ cluster, a little rectangular cutout that houses a front facing camera and mid-ranged radar module. Besides this design change, the Polestar 2 with Performance Pack also brings a new 20″ forged alloy wheel design. The changes in cosmetics are meant to reflect the design language shift of the upcoming Polestar 3.
A new powertrain is also part of the 2024 model year update. The Polestar 2 is now powered by motors developed by Volvo Car. These motors are more efficient and offer more performance. All single-motor variants are now rear-wheel driven with a power output of 220 kW (up from 170 kW) and 490 Nm (up from 330 Nm). Acceleration from 0-100km/h is down to 6.2 seconds (down from 7.4 seconds).
The dual motor versions feature a rear-drive bias and a rebalanced drivetrain setup and torque-ratio. A new asynchronous motor on the front axle supports the primary rear motor. Total system output of the all-wheel drive model is 310 kW and 740 Nm (up from 300kW and 660 Nm). Traction, efficiency and performance have all been enhanced and it now does the century sprint in just 4.5 seconds, plus the front motor is automatically disengaged when not needed.
With the optional (and downloadable on eligible Polestar 2 Long range Dual Motor vehicles) Performance Pack, power is up to 350 kW and the 0-100km/h time goes down to 4.2 seconds.
Also new on all Polestar 2 models in most markets are upgraded lithium-ion batteries. These are now up to 82kWh from CATL with 27 modules on Long range models. These new batteries are more efficient and charge faster, up to 205kW on DC Fast Charging. Range is now 592km on a full charge, up by a significant 105km over the outgoing model. Long Range models with a single motor have a range of 635km per charge, up by 84km.
The standard range models are still 69kWh with 24 modules though they are now supplied by LG Chem. These batteries now charge at 135kW max over DC Fast Charging. Range on these models is now 518km, which is an increase of 40km. All these improvements to performance come at a lower cost to the environment. Polestar reports that carbon emissions have been reduced per car from 7 tonnes to 5.9 tonnes thanks to improved cell chemistry.
Standard equipment has also increased with this revision. Blind spot Information System with steering support, Cross Traffic Alert with brake support, and Rear Collision Warning and Mitigation, 360-degree surround view cameras, automatic dimming exterior mirrors and a wireless phone charger are all standard now. Pricing for the 2024 Polestar 2 starts at EUR 50,190 (RM234,000 by today’s rates) and deliveries are expected in Q3 2023.
