Geraldine Herbert test drives the Polestar 4
Sleek, spacious and packed with tech, the Polestar 4 redefines the electric coupe but its missing rear window is a bold move that not every driver will love.
What is it?
Polestar’s fourth model is billed as a sleek, all-electric coupe — but with one very noticeable quirk: it has no rear window. Instead, drivers get a camera feed where the rear-view mirror usually lives. The brand argues this design improves headroom, boosts aerodynamics, and keeps passengers more comfortable. In practice, though, it takes some getting used to. Like a van driver, you’ll find yourself relying heavily on the door mirrors. Beyond that eyebrow-raising omission, the Polestar 4 promises clean Scandinavian styling, cutting-edge tech, and a comfortable, spacious cabin.
Styling
For all its unconventional decisions, the Polestar 4 looks every bit the premium coupe. It’s restrained, minimal and instantly recognisable as part of the Polestar family. Clean lines, a sharp silhouette, and tasteful LED detailing give it an elegant, almost understated presence. Yes, it’s missing a rear window, but somehow it still manages to look effortlessly stylish — unmistakably Swedish, unmistakably Polestar.
Under the Bonnet
Two versions are on offer. The Long Range Single Motor is rear-wheel drive, producing 272hp, hitting 0–100km/h in 7.1 seconds and offering up to 620km of range. For those with a heavier right foot, the Long Range Dual Motor delivers 544hp, sprints from 0–100 in just 3.8 seconds, and still promises around 590km on a full charge. Both pack a 100kWh battery and support fast charging at up to 200kWh — in theory, that means 10–80% in about half an hour. On the road, the Polestar 4 feels planted thanks to its low centre of gravity. The steering is nicely weighted, the handling assured, and while it isn’t particularly sporty, it strikes a balance between firmness and comfort.
What About Inside?
Step inside and things improve dramatically. The cabin is bright, airy, and cleverly designed. Buyers can opt for sustainable materials including textiles made from recycled PET bottles, bio-attributed MicroTech, or traced wool, alongside the more traditional Nappa leather. At the centre sits a huge 15.4-inch touchscreen running Google’s built-in software. It’s intuitive and responsive, though its lack of physical buttons may frustrate some drivers. For back-seat passengers, there’s even an optional entertainment screen (less fun for the driver when the kids take control of the radio).
Thanks to the missing rear window, rear passengers get generous headroom and legroom — unusual for a coupe. There’s also a sizeable 526 litres of boot space. Overall, it feels plush, contemporary, and genuinely practical.
And Safety?
Every Polestar 4 comes generously equipped: heated seats, a panoramic roof, wireless charging, a 360° camera, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The camera-based rear “mirror” promises a wide-angle, unobstructed view, though whether it’s as reassuring as old-fashioned glass is up for debate. Still, Polestar has clearly prioritised technology-driven safety and visibility.
What Are My Options?
Polestar 4 buyers get two clear choices: Long Range Single Motor and Long Range Dual Motor and both trims share the same sleek design, spacious interior, and Google-powered tech, with extras like an electrochromic glass roof available on select builds.
Rivals
The Polestar 4 sits in a competitive crowd of premium EVs. Its closest rivals include the Audi Q6 e-tron (€76,500), Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV (€95,450), Porsche Macan Electric (€88,746) and the ever-popular Tesla Model Y (€44,990). With a starting price of €56,490, the Polestar undercuts many of these, though fully optioned models stretch up to around €87,500.
Verdict
The Polestar 4 is a striking blend of style, comfort, and technology. It’s quick, refined, and spacious — everything you’d expect from a premium EV. But that rear window, or rather the lack of it, is a sticking point. It may improve aerodynamics and passenger comfort, but it forces drivers into a van-like reliance on side mirrors and a digital feed that never quite feels like a real mirror.
Still, for buyers who value design, interior comfort, and cutting-edge tech, the Polestar 4 stands tall as an impressive alternative in a crowded market. Just be prepared for the reminder, every time you glance over your shoulder, that this very sleek coupe is also, in its own way, a very stylish van.
Star rating: 4/5
Facts
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Model Tested: Polestar 4 Long Range Single Motor Plus
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Starting Price: €56,490 (€68,390 as tested)
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Power: 272hp (Single Motor) / 544hp (Dual Motor)
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Battery: 100kWh
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Range: Up to 620km (Single Motor) / 590km (Dual Motor)
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0–100km/h: 7.1s (Single Motor) / 3.8s (Dual Motor)
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Charging: 10–80% in ~30 minutes (200kWh fast-charging)
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Boot Space: 526 litres
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CO₂/Tax: 0g/km / €120
