With the rise of fuel prices rising significantly this year, this has created an opportunity for auto manufacturers to sell hybrids and EVs. Sadly, with the current parts and labour shortage felt throughout the industry, the wait lists for some of the most popular models range from six months to two years. Auto sales numbers would be much higher if supply met demand. One brand that does not face the same predicament is the 2022 Polestar 2 Single Motor here on test.
The current wait time for a 2022 Polestar 2 is a few months depending on which options you choose and based on the current tester, one ordered today has an expected delivery in the first quarter of 2023. This is great for consumers that wish to get their hands on a car sooner rather than later. Buyers looking for an EV such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Tesla Model 3 face significant wait times as they struggle to meet demand. While these models seem to be in the spotlight, the Polestar 2 remains an unknown to most of the general public.
While the Polestar 1 is considered stunning, the Polestar 2 does not carry the same weight. While the overall design is clean and modern, nothing makes it stand out from the crowd like some competitors. The Polestar 2’s LED front and rear light designs do help make it look unique and upscale. The Thor’s Hammer lights up front are straight from Volvo while the wrap-around rear bar is all Polestar. The styling makes the Polestar 2 look raised for a somewhat crossover-ish look, though the large C-pillars and small rear window do hinder rearward visibility somewhat.
The interior is clean and somewhat handsome, but calling it bold and daring would be a stretch. Somewhat similar to a Volvo when you look at the steering wheel and vents, you can see where they share the parts bin. The vertical shape of the 11-inch infotainment screen is similar to the one used in the Ford Mustang Mach-E and takes some getting used to, however once you get into the swing of things it feels like a larger version of your cell phone. Unlike the Mach-E, this tablet-like screen is closer to the driver so stretching is not required.
Featuring Google Automotive Services, Android users will feel right at home. The system is snappy to operate and the graphics are sharp. Over the air updates provide the latest software on a regular basis and users may download more apps from the Google Play Store. Downloading Waze and YouTube Music was a snap, and as of this past summer, Polestar models now have Apple CarPlay as well.
Everything you touch inside the Polestar is made with environmentally sustainable materials. Polestar has used recycled plastics to manufacture their seats and normally plastic surfaces are made with natural materials. The mix of textures provide character to an interior that would otherwise be rather bland. With ergonomics a strong point in the overall design, everything is easily within reach and keeps with the minimalistic interior theme that seems to be the prerequisite of any EV.
The Polestar 2 is a proper sedan, however do not expect sport sedan type of handling. Its strength lies in its ability to isolate those inside. Road imperfections are swallowed up with ease and road noise is kept to a minimum level. Steering is quick but lacks any semblance of feedback, not unlike everything else in Volvo’s current lineup. With our Single Motor model being front-drive only, it also lacks in the grip and handling department with a tendency to understeer.
In the Long Range Single Motor model tested here, a 78-kWh lithium battery provides the power. 231 horsepower is available along with 243 lb-ft of torque. Range is up to 434 kilometres and the 0-100 km/h run takes about 7.0 seconds; not the fastest but passing power is readily available. The Long Range Dual Motor (all-wheel-drive) shaves 2.5 seconds off the 0-100 km/h time. The penalty when it comes to range is minimal at a very reasonable 418 kilometers. The extra punch and all-wheel-drive is reason enough to sway buyers to shell out the extra cash and should be the popular buy for most Canadians.
For 2022, Polestar has included a HVAC mechanical heat pump that improves the overall driving range by 10 percent. Charging times are comparable to most of the competition; a 0-80 percent charge takes 33 minutes using a 155-kWh charger. A Kia EV6 or Hyundai IONIQ 5 can accomplish the same task in 18 minutes for comparison’s sake.
Pricing starts at $53,950 for the Single Motor model, and add an additional $5,000 if you opt for the Dual Motor model. Choose any color other than Magnesium and add another $1,500 to the price tag. Our tester had the Plus package priced at $5,700 which includes a fixed panoramic sunroof, an upgraded sound system from Harman-Kardon, heated rear seats and numerous other creature comforts. The Pilot package for an additional $4,700 adds a multitude of safety and driver assistance features. The sticker for our loaded tester came to $65,580.
The 2022 Polestar 2 Single Motor is a competent entry in the segment, but is quickly being left behind. However, at this price point, those looking to keep under the radar and have an electric vehicle with decent range, superb comfort and soft driving dynamics should look no further. We can’t wait to see the brand evolve with spreading more awareness over the coming years.
