If you‘re considering an electric SUV, you‘ve probably been excited about the upcoming Polestar 3 and Polestar 4. But which of these brand new EVs is right for you? I‘ve done an in-depth comparison to help you decide.
As a quick overview, the Polestar 3 is the more practical choice with 3 rows of seating and ample cargo room. The Polestar 4 prioritizes performance and athletic handling with its coupe-like design. Both offer compelling tech and 300+ miles of range. Let‘s dive into the details.
Styling and Exterior Design
These two Polestar SUVs share some styling cues but differ greatly when it comes to proportions and presence.
The Polestar 3 is the larger of the two with its tall, boxy profile. It looks substantial on the road at 195 inches long and 78 inches wide. The upright greenhouse provides excellent outward visibility and easy access. Ground clearance is a lofty 8.3 inches allowing moderate off-roading.
In contrast, the Polestar 4 has a much lower, wider and sportier stance. The sloped roofline and tapered rear gives it exotic coupe vibes. At 187 inches long on a 112 inch wheelbase, the Polestar 4 is nimble and athletic. But the compromised ground clearance of just 6.5 inches and smaller greenhouse limit its versatility compared to the Polestar 3.
Both feature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, panoramic glass roofs and hands-free powered tailgates. But if you prefer riding tall over a sportier drive, the Polestar 3 has the edge.
Power and Performance
As you’d expect from Polestar, both the 3 and 4 promise stirring performance. But here the Polestar 4 is expected have the advantage.
The dual-motor Polestar 3 produces between 489 and 510 hp, hitting 60 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds. However, rumors point to the Polestar 4 outputting between 400 to 544 hp depending on the configuration. That could allow the sportier model to reach 60 mph in under 4 seconds flat.
The Polestar 3 has a battery capacity around 111 kWh for max range of 300 miles. The Polestar 4 may use 102 kWh packs for up to 372 miles of range in rear-wheel drive form. Expect closer to 300 miles from the AWD model.
So while range is nearly equal, the Polestar 4‘s rumored performance specs give it the edge for speed demons. Even the base single motor Polestar 4 could out-accelerate the top Polestar 3. And with AWD, the Polestar 4 could compete with the quickest Teslas.
| Specification | Polestar 3 | Polestar 4 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 489-510 hp | 400-544 hp |
| 0-60 mph Time | 4.7 seconds | 3.8-4.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph (estimated) |
| Battery Capacity | 111 kWh | 102 kWh |
| Max Range (AWD) | 300 miles | 300 miles (expected) |
Clearly the Polestar 4 aims to be the performance flagship while the Polestar 3 prioritizes comfort and versatility. If you love exhilarating speed, the Polestar 4 is likely your pick.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
The interior dimensions and seating configurations of these two SUVs vary quite a bit.
Inside, the Polestar 3 feels very spacious and airy. Front seat passengers get 41.1 inches of headroom and 42.2 inches of legroom. The optional third row is snug, but handy for kids.
Behind the raised rear seats you get a generous 17.1 cubic feet of cargo volume. Fold the second and third row down and that expands to a cavernous 60 cubic feet. So the Polestar 3 can easily fit adults in all three rows along with ample cargo when needed.
Now let‘s look at the Polestar 4. The sweeping roofline and thick rear pillars squeeze the back seat significantly. Rear passengers get only 36.7 inches of headroom and 35.6 inches of legroom. The cargo hold is also modest at just 17.7 cubic feet. Blame the rakish hatch opening.
Clearly if you regularly need room for 5 or more passengers and lots of cargo, go with the Polestar 3. But couples or small families will appreciate the Polestar 4’s cozy cockpit.
Technology and Connectivity
Being new models built on Volvo‘s SPA platform, both Polestar SUVs come loaded with tech. This includes:
- Google Android Automotive OS – Provides Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play access natively in the vehicle. A Polestar exclusive.
- Digital displays – The Polestar 3 features a 9-inch digital gauge cluster and 14.5-inch center touchscreen. Screens in the Polestar 4 are even larger.
- OTA updates – Software and settings can be upgraded wirelessly over-the-air, no visits to the dealer required.
- Phone integration – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow easy pairing with your smartphone.
- ADAS safety – Includes blind spot monitoring, cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous Pilot Assist.
- Audio – Both have premium audio from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins depending on package.
The Polestar 4 ups the ante with unique tech like the dual rearview camera system that replaces the rear window. This provides an unobstructed rear view and reduces blind spots. The Polestar 4 will also likely have slightly larger digital displays.
Both are highly advanced electric SUVs, but if you want the ultimate high-tech experience, the Polestar 4 may have the advantage.
Cost and Availability
Being brand new premium electric SUVs, neither model comes cheap. Here’s how pricing and availability compares:
- Polestar 3 – Starts at $83,900 before incentives. Deliveries begin mid 2023.
- Polestar 4 – Estimated to start around $65,000 for the base model. Launches late 2024 at the earliest.
You can already reserve a Polestar 3 for a refundable $2,500 deposit. Reservations for the 4 aren‘t open yet. Both qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit along with state incentives where available.
The Polestar 3 does cost more upfront. But if you need 3 rows of seating, it could be worth it to get the Polestar 3 first. Waiting on the Polestar 4 means going at least another year without one.
The Verdict
In the battle between the 2023 Polestar 3 and 2024 Polestar 4, there‘s no definitively superior option. It comes down to your needs and preferences as a driver.
If you want max practicality and space, choose the Polestar 3. Families will appreciate the extra row of seats and cargo flexibility. The Polestar 3 also edges out the 4 slightly when it comes to luxury appointments and features.
However, the Polestar 4 is the pick for driving enthusiasts and couples without kids. The rakish coupe-crossover design is far sexier. And you can expect sharper handling and blistering acceleration from its more powerful dual-motor powertrain.
Both Polestar SUVs promise 300+ miles of range, speedy charging, and Google-powered infotainment. You really can‘t go wrong. Take a look at your priorities to decide if the utilitarian Polestar 3 or athletic Polestar 4 is the best match.
Either one will be an exciting addition once these electric SUVs hit the road over the next two years! Let me know if you have any other questions.