Introduction

The Polestar 5 marks a significant evolution in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, showcasing a bold new chapter for the Swedish automaker. Leveraging a dedicated platform, this luxury saloon is not just another run-of-the-mill EV—but a potent blend of performance, design, and sustainability that aims to compete with established heavyweights like the Porsche Taycan and the BMW i5. Priced from £89,490, the Polestar 5 is engineered from the ground up, making it a standout option for those looking for a unique electric driving experience.

Design & Styling

Pros

• Striking exterior design
• Innovative aluminum chassis construction

Cons

• Heavy overall weight

The exterior of the Polestar 5 is nothing short of stunning. With a design ethos reminiscent of the iconic Lotus Elise, it features a bonded extruded aluminum chassis that offers strength without unnecessary weight. This construction method, while familiar to enthusiasts of niche sports cars, is groundbreaking for a volume model, pushing the boundaries of standard automotive architecture.

Interestingly, Polestar has combined style with practicality, evident in features like the rear light bar that doubles as a spoiler lip, enhancing both the aesthetics and aerodynamic performance of the vehicle.

However, the vehicle's low-slung profile comes at a price, making it heavier than some of its competitors. Despite this, it maintains an aggressive stance that commands attention on the road.

Interior

Pros

• Distinctive materials and styling
• Comfortable seating
• Spacious rear cabin

Cons

• Heavy reliance on touchscreen controls
• Rear visibility compromised by design choices

Inside, the Polestar 5 continues the trend of high-quality materials and innovative design. The interior is adorned with a unique fabric covering the dashboard, complemented by light woods instead of the typical dark plastics found in many cars. This approach not only creates an inviting atmosphere but also emphasizes sustainability.

The driving position is pleasantly low, and the Recaro seats provide ample adjustment options for comfort. However, the design decision to forgo a rear window for a sleek profile has drawbacks, leading to limitations in rear visibility and boot space. Despite a generous cargo capacity, the utility is somewhat affected, as users may find the height of the floor less accommodating for taller passengers.

Engines & Performance

Pros

• Exciting, fast acceleration
• Highly responsive handling

Cons

• Questionable necessity of such high performance

Performance-wise, the Polestar 5 doesn’t disappoint. With up to 871 horsepower and 749 lb-ft of torque available in the Performance variant, it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds—making it an exhilarating ride. The vehicle showcases the progressive design philosophy of Polestar, prioritizing not just power, but also driveability, making it enjoyable both on the track and city roads.

The dual-motor setup features a rear motor developed by Polestar, complemented by a robust front motor from ZF, promoting efficient power management. Remarkably, the front wheel can operate independently under gentle cruising conditions to enhance energy savings. The car also supports regenerative braking, allowing for flexible driving modes that cater to varied preferences.

Ride & Handling

Pros

• Linear steering feedback
• Stable at high speeds

Cons

• Limited ride isolation
• Non-switchable Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Dynamic performance is where the Polestar 5 truly shines. The steering offers a communicative experience, translating driver inputs into deliberate actions without any artificial enhancement. While it doesn't feature complex tech like four-wheel steering, this simplicity contributes to the vehicle’s engaging driving character.

The adaptive dampers provide dynamic adjustment capabilities, ensuring the ride quality remains competent even on less-than-ideal surfaces. Nonetheless, there may be room for improvement in ride comfort, especially at lower settings, as more refined options could be introduced for a smoother journey.

MPG & Running Costs

Pros

• Competitive pricing compared to rivals
• Impressive charging speed (350 kW Max)

Cons

• Range not benchmark-setting
• Efficiency could be optimized

With a large 106kWh battery, the Polestar 5 strikes a balance between power and range. However, the efficiency clocking in at 3.0 miles per kWh may not set new standards, especially for the Performance model, which offers a reduced range of 351 miles. In comparison to its rivals, the pricing structure makes the Polestar 5 a competitive alternative, though potential buyers may still have reservations about the overall range.

Moreover, thanks to high-charge capabilities, owners can expect a rapid charge from 10-80% in just about 22 minutes—an advantage for those on the go.

Verdict

Pros

• Engaging driving dynamics
• Distinctive and sustainable design

Cons

• UI experience needs enhancement
• Infotainment system may act as a pain point

In summary, the Polestar 5 emerges as a unique offering in the electric vehicle market, balancing high performance with compelling design aesthetics. While it faces challenges—particularly in user interface usability and overall range—its focus on sustainable luxury car manufacturing sets it apart in a crowded field. The vehicle's architectural creativity and engineering prowess offer solid grounds for great expectations, especially as they prepare for the final version release.

To complement your Polestar 5 driving experience, consider utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic tools for your car. Check it out here for swift, intelligent automated diagnostics.