UK drive: Polestar 3 combines understated luxury with impressive performance
The Polestar 3 has been upgraded with a range of new features and Jack Williams has been checking them out.
What is it?
Built to take on the likes of the BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, and Audi Q8 e-tron, the 3 faces stiff competition from some of the biggest names in the business but does it have what it takes? We have been driving it to find out.
What’s new?
One area where the 3 has previously been criticised was its tech and Polestar has moved to address the issue now. The fresh model has a vastly more powerful core computer which makes systems feel sharper and more responsive, while some revised trims, options and design tweaks give the car a significant edge over what came before.
What’s under the bonnet?
In terms of setups, the 3 is available in three main configurations – Rear motor, Dual motor and Performance. Every option features Polestar’s new specially developed rear motor, with outputs ranging from 329 bhp all the way up to 670 in the most powerful versions.
What’s it like to drive?
While the car may look like a big SUV, it is worth noting that it is by far the most comfortable on the road. While it performed reasonably well on the gravel track provided as part of our test route, it did come unstuck when faced with a particularly slippery and muddy patch of grass. Thankfully, no damage was done to the car or drivers, other than a severe dent in my pride at having to ask for a tow!
How does it look?
It’s a proper SUV in stance, but the proportions are clean and controlled, with a low-sloping roofline that helps the car look less bulky than many of its rivals. The lighting signature, including the split ‘Thor’s Hammer’ front design, does give the 3 presence but overall it all looks understatedly classy in a way that feels wonderfully Scandinavian.
What’s it like inside?
In terms of controls, it is all very minimalist, with the vast majority of the car’s functions controlled by the huge 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen, which has been upgraded to feel far more responsive than what came before. While this is great, we still can’t help but feel that a few more physical buttons would help the overall experience no end!
What’s the spec like?
Standard equipment includes a 14.5-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, head-up display, wireless smartphone charging with full 5G connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Comfort features include heated seats and a panoramic glass roof.
Verdict
Polestar has got some very bold ambitions going forward and having driven the 3, it is easy to see why. As a driver’s car, it is outstanding and as good as any big electric SUV on the market. It also looks great, has a wonderful interior and offers a good level of space and practicality.
Yes, a few extra buttons would be nice and if you’re looking for an SUV with off-road ability, then maybe look elsewhere, but the truth is that for the vast majority of buyers, the 3 is all the car you could ever want.