Polestar Unveils Pricing for New Electric Vehicle at 2024 New York International Auto Show
Polestar recently showcased its latest electric vehicle, the North Star 4, at the 2024 New York International Auto Show, where it also revealed the US pricing for the sleek new model. The North Star 4, despite lacking a hatchback, comes with a starting price of $56,300 including delivery. This pricing positions it right in between Polestar’s sedan offering, the Polestar 2, and their more recently unveiled SUV, the Polestar 3.
Described as an “SUV Coupe” by Polar Star, the North Star 4 is more akin to a lifted sedan, similar to the Polestar 2. However, the North Star 4 boasts a more attractive design with a sharper front end, elegant roofline, and unique side surfaces. An interesting anomaly in Polestar’s naming conventions is that the North Star 4 falls between the Polestar 2 and the larger North Star 3 in terms of size, contrary to what one might expect based on the naming scheme.
The $56,300 starting price includes features such as 20-inch five-spoke wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof, 360-degree parking cameras, a power liftgate, and adaptive cruise control. The base powertrain, known as the Long Range Single Motor, is rear-wheel drive and delivers 272 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. With a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds and a 102 kWh battery providing a range of up to 300 miles, these specifications remain consistent across all Long Range single-engine variants regardless of trim level or package.
For those seeking more power, upgrading to the long-range dual-motor configuration offers all-wheel drive, 544 hp, 506 lb-ft of torque, and a quicker 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds. However, the trade-off is a slightly reduced range of 270 miles. Additional enhancements like the optional Performance Pack come with 22-inch forged wheels, Brembo brakes with gold calipers, and high-performance tires, though they do not impact straight-line performance. Interestingly, Polestar maintains that even with the upgraded wheels and tires, the range remains unchanged. All North Star 4 models feature 200 kW DC fast charging capability.
One of the more unique features of the North Star 4 is its decision to forgo a traditional rear window in favor of an extended panoramic roof. This design choice aims to create a more spacious passenger environment, though it does necessitate the use of a high-definition camera to replace the rear window.
Despite the unconventional design element, the North Star 4 is considered one of Polestar’s most visually appealing vehicles to date. Priced similarly to the BMW i4, it comes at a higher cost compared to rivals like the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and even Polestar’s own Polestar 2, without a significant advantage in range or performance. However, its striking aesthetics and sleek profile may be enough to justify the price for potential customers. The North Star 4 is set to begin production in April, with the first deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of this year.
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