The review
All EV Sales editorial review. Researched from official specifications, safety ratings and published expert reviews; not a first-hand owner review. Key facts Price from: A$62,400 (Standard Range Single Motor, Australia, before on-roads) · £45,210 (UK) Official range: 554–659 km (WLTP, Australia) · 344–409 miles (WLTP, UK) 0–100 km/h: 6.4 seconds (Standard Range) to 4.2 seconds (Dual Motor Performance) Peak DC charging: 180–205 kW (10–80% in 26–28 minutes) Safety: 5 stars ANCAP (2021) Overview The Polestar 2 is a premium electric fastback that has been on sale since 2020 in Europe and Australia. It was withdrawn from the US after import tariffs rose. A new-generation Polestar 2 is due to be revealed in early 2027. The 2026 model targets buyers of the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4 and BYD Seal. Design & Interior The cabin is minimalist and well finished, and higher grades add leather that lifts perceived quality. The 11.15-inch portrait touchscreen runs Google's Android Automotive and now uses a faster Snapdragon processor. Reviewers rate the built-in Google Maps and voice control highly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired only. Some gloss-black plastic trim feels cheap for the price. Driving Single-motor versions now drive the rear wheels, and reviewers describe the handling as balanced and engaging. Power ranges from 200 kW to 350 kW. The Performance pack adds Öhlins dampers and reaches 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The ride is firm across the range and can feel harsh over urban bumps. Road noise is higher than many rivals. Range & Charging The Standard Range battery is 70 kWh, and Long Range versions use 82 kWh. Australian WLTP ratings run from 554 km to 659 km, and UK figures reach up to 409 miles. Official consumption for the Performance version is 16.8–17.2 kWh per 100 km. DC charging peaks at 180–205 kW, with 10–80% in 26–28 minutes. In Australia the heat pump is an extra-cost option. Practicality The 407-litre boot is a practical square shape, and there is a small front compartment for cables. Folding the rear seats gives about 1,054 litres. Rear legroom trails the Model 3, and the low roof limits headroom for tall passengers. Australian buyers get a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and eight years or 160,000 km on the battery. Servicing is every two years. Safety ANCAP awarded five stars in 2021 for all variants. Scores were 92% for adult occupants, 87% for children, 80% for vulnerable road users and 82% for safety assist. That rating expires in December 2027. Euro NCAP also awarded five stars. Its 2022 assisted-driving grading rated Pilot Assist as Good, but noted it did not respond to stopped cars and lacks a driver-monitoring camera. Verdict The Polestar 2 still offers long range, strong charging, tidy handling and a high-quality cabin. It suits drivers who value a composed, engaging car over rear-seat space. However, pricing is steep, key features sit in option packs, and the ride is firm. With a replacement due in 2027 and cheaper rivals available, it is best considered with a discount. How we rated it Range 4.5 (long WLTP range and quick charging) · Performance 4.5 (engaging rear-drive handling, very quick dual motor) · Safety 4.5 (strong ANCAP scores, ageing rating) · Comfort 3.0 (firm ride, road noise, tight rear) · Overall 3.5 (average 4.1, reduced half a star for high pricing and extra-cost features). Sources Polestar Australia, Polestar 2 specs: https://www.polestar.com/au/polestar-2/ Polestar UK, Polestar 2 price and range: https://www.polestar.com/uk/polestar-2/ Drive, Australian first drive: https://www.drive.com.au/reviews/2026-polestar-2-review-australian-first-drive/ CarExpert review (Australian pricing): https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2026-polestar-2-review-quick-drive ANCAP rating: https://www.ancap.com.au/safety-ratings/polestar/2-c4b9e197-9808-4560-bba1-35b1e566817c/a90ec2 Euro NCAP assisted driving grading: https://www.euroncap.com/assessments/polestar/2/a011/ Carwow review (UK): https://www.carwow.co.uk/polestar/2 InsideEVs, US withdrawal and next generation: https://insideevs.com/news/787583/polestar-2-new-generation-2027/