Polestar Electric Cars UK 2025: Guide to the Polestar 2, 3 & 4
Source: Polestar Press Release
Polestar has evolved from Volvo's performance division into a standalone electric vehicle brand combining Scandinavian minimalism with genuine driver engagement. The Swedish-Chinese manufacturer delivers sporty dynamics, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge technology across its entire UK range.
The brand's design credentials speak volumes: Polestar models have secured major international awards, including Red Dot "Best of the Best," iF Design Gold, and IDEA Gold Trophy - positioning Polestar as a credible alternative to the more established German premium EVs.
With Google's Android Automotive OS embedded in every model, 800V ultra-fast charging on flagship vehicles, and excellent salary sacrifice support, these Swedish electric performance cars are more accessible than ever for UK company car drivers.
Polestar's Progressive Performance Philosophy
Polestar positions itself as the electric performance brand for drivers who value engagement alongside sustainability. The brand's identity centres on "progressive performance" - combining responsive chassis dynamics with minimalist design and deep technology integration.
The driving DNA is evident: low centres of gravity, stiff structures, and chassis tuning aimed at providing feedback and confidence. Polestar doesn't prioritise whisper-quiet cruising above all else - the brand wants driver connection, even in its SUVs. This differentiates Polestar from comfort-focused premium EVs while avoiding overtly aggressive positioning.
Polestar’s design philosophy emphasises Scandinavian minimalism: clean surfaces, restrained ornamentation, and focus on materials over decoration. Polestar uses recycled plastics, bio-based composites, and vegan interior options, tying into the brand's sustainability mission with transparent lifecycle carbon assessments for every model.
The Google Android Automotive integration makes Polestar stand out. Unlike systems that need a smartphone connection, Android Automotive OS is embedded natively, providing built-in Google Maps with real-time charging station availability, Google Assistant voice control, and continuous over-the-air updates that evolve capabilities throughout ownership.
The Polestar Range
Polestar 2: Executive Performance EV
Starting from £43,160
The Polestar 2 serves as the brand's entry point and volume seller in the executive EV segment alongside models like Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4. This executive fastback delivers sporty character, efficient performance, and strong technology. For comprehensive comparisons, see our Polestar 2 alternatives guide.
Specifications:
Long Range Dual Motor: 402 bhp, 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds
Range: 292-326 miles WLTP, depending on specification
Charging: Up to 205kW DC rapid charging (10-80% in ~32 minutes)
Tech: Google Android Automotive, sustainable materials, minimalist cabin
The Polestar 2 delivers composed handling with a willingness to engage when called upon. Weight distribution benefits from the low-mounted 79kWh battery pack, while adaptive dampers on higher specs allow adjustment between comfort and sport settings. Over-the-air updates continuously evolve capabilities, maintaining software relevance throughout ownership.
Polestar 3: The Luxury Performance SUV
Starting from £67,990
The Polestar 3 represents Polestar's move into full-size luxury SUV territory, and it's genuinely impressive.
What you get:
Long Range Single Motor: 333 bhp RWD with an impressive 403 miles of range, 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds
Long Range Dual Motor: 483 bhp AWD, 348 miles range, 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds
Performance Dual Motor: 510 bhp for those who want the full performance experience, 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds
Battery & Charging: Massive 111kWh battery with (recently announced) 800V architecture means you can charge at up to 250kW—that's 10-80% in around 30 minutes
Space: 484 litres of boot space expanding to 1,411 litres, genuine room for two rows of adults
Premium Tech: 14.5" touchscreen, 9" driver display, Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and LiDAR sensors for future autonomous features
Despite its size and 2,584kg weight, the Polestar 3 is easy to handle. The dual-motor variants use clever torque vectoring, which shifts power between the rear wheels to help you corner more precisely. The active air suspension adjusts according to your driving style, providing comfort for motorway cruising and enhanced control when needed.
Here's something impressive: a standard Polestar 3 recently set a Guinness World Record by travelling 581.3 miles on a single charge. While you won't replicate that in everyday driving, it shows just how efficient the platform really is!
Polestar 4: The Radical Coupe-SUV
Starting from £60,000
The Polestar 4 is where Polestar really pushes the boundaries. This coupe-SUV looks dramatic, drives brilliantly, and has one feature that turns heads everywhere: there's no rear window. Instead, Polestar fits a roof-mounted camera that feeds a high-resolution display where your rear-view mirror would normally be.
What you get:
Long Range Single Motor: 268 bhp RWD, 385 miles range, 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds
Long Range Dual Motor: 536 bhp AWD, 367 miles range, 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds… seriously quick
Battery & Charging: 94kWh battery with 200kW DC charging capability
The Camera System: High-res display replacing traditional rear window - enhances aerodynamics and rear passenger headroom
Space: 526 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,536 litres), plus noticeably more rear headroom thanks to the eliminated window
Driving Dynamics: Active dampers on the dual-motor version, Google Android Automotive throughout
The camera-instead-of-window setup initially sounds gimmicky, but it works brilliantly once you're used to it. You get a wider field of view than a traditional mirror, rear passengers or loads never obscure it, and it genuinely improves the aerodynamics. Plus, rear passengers love the extra headroom. Does it take some adjustment? Yes. Is it worth it? Most owners say absolutely.
The Polestar 4 prioritises style and driving engagement - this is for people who want something distinctive without sacrificing practicality for their daily lives.
Future Polestar Models
Polestar 5: The Performance Grand Tourer
Starting from £89,500
If you thought the Polestar 4 was dramatic, wait until you see the Polestar 5. This is Polestar's flagship performance GT, and it's designed to go toe-to-toe with some seriously prestigious company in the luxury electric performance segment.
Source: Polestar 5 Press Release
The Polestar 5 uses a completely bespoke platform developed specifically for electric performance, rather than adapting existing designs. Sales began last month (September 2025), following its official reveal at the Munich Motorshow!
What’s coming:
Dual Motor: 737 bhp, 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds, around 416 miles of range
Performance: 871 bhp, 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds, approximately 351 miles of range
Purpose-Built Platform: Brand new Polestar Performance Architecture with bonded aluminium construction
Ultra-Fast Charging: 800V architecture supporting up to 350kW DC charging - that's 10-80% in roughly 22 minutes
Pricing: £89,500 for Dual Motor, £104,900 for Performance
Polestar 6 and Beyond
Polestar has mentioned the Polestar 6 as a more niche offering - think roadster or convertible sports car territory. It's less about mainstream appeal and more about the emotion you feel when driving a car like this. Specific timelines aren't confirmed yet, but it's definitely on the roadmap.
The brand's continued investment in new platforms, advanced thermal management, and sustainability shows they're serious about expanding what electric performance means while keeping that distinctive Polestar character.
Technology That Makes Sense
Google Built In
As mentioned earlier, every Polestar comes with Google Android Automotive OS built into the car itself - not through your phone, but integrated into the vehicle. This means:
Google Maps with real-time traffic updates and charging station availability, no phone connection needed
Google Assistant so you can control navigation, media, and climate settings just by talking
Google Play gives you access to music streaming, podcasts, and other apps
Over-the-air updates mean your car continuously improves throughout ownership
You won't deal with the frustrating "car screen plus phone app" juggling act that many premium cars still use. Everything works seamlessly together.
Charging That Works
Polestar takes a smart approach to charging technology:
800V systems (Polestar 3 and 5): These support ultra-fast charging up to 250-350kW with less heat stress on the battery. It's genuinely impressive technology that makes long journeys much easier.
400V architecture (Polestar 2 and 4): Still capable with charging speeds up to 200-205kW, which is more than enough for practical long-distance travel.
Driver Assistance You'll Use
All Polestars come with comprehensive safety technology, including cameras, radar, and - on the Polestar 3 - LiDAR sensors. This gives you:
Adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist for relaxed motorway driving
Lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot monitoring for added confidence
Future autonomous capability that'll improve through software updates as regulations evolve
Start Saving by Leasing a Polestar through EV Salary Sacrifice Schemes
If you're employed and your company offers a salary sacrifice scheme (like The Electric Car Scheme), this can dramatically reduce what you pay each month for your new Polestar.
How It Works
You agree to reduce your gross salary in exchange for an electric vehicle package that includes insurance, maintenance, and road tax. Because your salary is reduced before tax calculations, you pay less income tax and National Insurance. The game-changer? Electric vehicles have just 3% Benefit-in-Kind tax compared to 25-36% for petrol or diesel cars.
How Much Can You Save With The Electric Car Scheme
The table below shows how salary sacrifice can save an employee who decides to lease a Polestar through The Electric Car Scheme. If a 40% taxpayer who wanted to drive 10,000 miles per annum and lease a Polestar 2 (Standard Range Single Motor) over 4 years, they’d be able to save £321 every month! Bringing their total monthly car cost down from £766 to £516. The more the initial lease cost is, the more you’ll be able to save, as shown in the Polestar 3 example, where the same person could save £491 per month!
| Savings breakdown | Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor (70kWh) | Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor (111kWh) | Polestar 4 Long Range Single Motor (100kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary sacrifice (inc VAT) | £766 | £1,169 | £808 |
| Employee income savings | -£306 | -£468 | -£323 |
| Employee national insurance savings | -£15 | -£23 | -£16 |
| Average benefit-in-kind tax over term | £72 | £120 | £95 |
| Net cost/You pay | £516 | £798 | £564 |
What You Get
Much lower monthly costs versus private leasing or buying
Comprehensive package with insurance and maintenance already included
Predictable monthly costs with no surprise repair bills
Tax incentives that genuinely encourage switching to electric
Things to Consider
Your employer needs to offer salary sacrifice - it's not automatically available to everyone. The car returns at the end of the lease (you don't own it), and leaving your job early can sometimes incur costs, though many schemes now offer protection against this. It's also worth checking how salary sacrifice might affect other benefits or pension contributions in your specific situation.
If your employer doesn’t already offer this as a benefit, you can convince your company here!
Why Choose Polestar?
Design That Stands Out: Award-winning Scandinavian minimalism that looks different from everything else on the road… in a good way
Driving That Engages: These cars are tuned for people who enjoy driving, with responsive handling and genuine feedback
Technology That Evolves: Google Android Automotive and over-the-air updates mean your car keeps improving, not ageing
Sustainability With Transparency: Full lifecycle carbon assessments and genuine use of recycled materials - not just marketing
Accessible Through Salary Sacrifice: Higher-rate taxpayers can access Polestar 2 performance from just £409/month with everything included
Polestar sits in an interesting spot - premium enough for excellent quality without the constraints of century-old heritage. This means they can experiment with bold designs (hello, rear camera system), iterate quickly, and sell directly to you without traditional dealer markups.
Ready to explore Polestar through salary sacrifice? With award-winning design, genuine performance engineering, and models ranging from £43,000 to £91,990, Polestar offers compelling alternatives to conventional premium brands. The combination of Google technology, progressive performance, and 3% BIK tax rates makes now an excellent time to experience what electric performance really means.
Visit our Polestar salary sacrifice page or use our instant quote tool to see how much you can save through The Electric Car Scheme!
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Last updated: 13/10/2025
Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
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