FIRST DRIVE OF POLESTAR’S NEW PORSCHE MACAN RIVAL (POLESTAR 4 2024 REVIEW)

EV Channels Review

The Polestar 4 positions itself as a premium EV crossover rivaling the Porsche Macan, and it largely succeeds in delivering a luxurious and technologically advanced experience. The interior is a significant step up from the Polestar 2, featuring high-quality materials, intuitive physical controls, and a well-integrated Android-based infotainment system. The cabin offers exceptional rear-seat space and comfort, though the lack of a rear window is a polarizing design choice. While the dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant offers devastatingly rapid acceleration (0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds), the reviewer found it compromised driver engagement due to significant understeer, making it feel less sporty than intended. Real-world efficiency fell short of WLTP claims, with the dual-motor version achieving around 400km of range instead of the claimed 580km. The reviewer suggests the single-motor rear-wheel-drive variant might be the 'sweet spot,' offering a more balanced chassis, better steering feel, and a more engaging driving experience, despite its less potent acceleration (0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds). Overall, the Polestar 4 is praised for its refinement, attractive design, and premium execution, but the dual-motor's performance focus detracts from its potential as a truly fun-to-drive vehicle.