A third Polestar 3 model is due this year

The two-model Polestar 3 line-up is set to expand with a new entry-level single-motor long-range model. Currently the two that customers can order here are long-range dual-motor variants with price tags of $169,990 and $184,990. The latter is a performance version. Polestar 3 is a rival for BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, Mercedes EQE, along with relative Volvo EX90.

The rear-wheel drive, single-motor variant is due out at the end of this year. Evidently Polestar 3 has already sold out in some major overseas markets.

Riding on the same SPA2 platform as the EX90, the Polestar 3 is a little more compact than the BMW iX. The two variants available thus far have big torque tallies (840-910Nm), get to 100 in around 5sec and have top speeds of nearly 210km/h.  

All models feature a 107kWh (usable) battery pack, offering range of almost 600km. Expect even greater WLTP range for the single-motor version, due to its rear-drive status and single-motor weight saving. With 250kW charging capability, a 10 to 80 per cent battery zapping takes under 30min. Bi-directional charging means Polestar 3 can return power to the grid.

Polestar 3 dual-motor variants weigh in at just under 2.6 tonnes. To aid cornering, the rear electric motor is a torque-vectoring dual-clutch unit. Dual-chamber air suspension and adaptive damping are standard features. Alternatively, the Performance Pack model has a firmer suspension calibration and 22-inch forged alloys for sharper handling.

Styling follows that of the Precept concept car. A four-door coupe named Polestar 5 will be spun off from that concept as well, debuting in 2025.

Meantime, the Polestar 3 is pure SUV in its looks and dimensions. The front features a slim aero device that directs air over the bonnet. Polestar’s familiar T-shaped headlights are present. Black wheel arches and sill protection highlight its SUV style. In profile, the rising shoulder line is meant to resemble the tail of an aeroplane, according to designer, Nahum Escobedo. 

The roofline falls neatly into a rear spoiler for improved aero efficiency (added downforce). Cargo capacity ranges from 484-1411L, and up front is a 32-litre frunk. Towing capacity is 2.2 tonnes.

The 3 features an Android Automotive infotainment system like that in Polestar 2. A high-res 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen handles infotainment and over-the-air updates. The driver gets a nine-inch digital cluster while the cabin is replete with recycled materials. Polestar 3s come with a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, surround camera set-up and an array of driver assistance features.

Early Polestar 3 models will receive the Plus Pack which includes soft-closing doors, cabin air filtration, heated rear seats and a 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo. 

Other upcoming features include a radar system that can detect children or animals inside the car and adjust the climate settings, an eye-monitoring camera to detect driver fatigue, and the like.

Polestar is dialling in a LiDAR system currently to scan the environment in real time. LiDAR aims to support autonomous driving down the line.