Polestar 2 Gets Major Upgrade: New Battery, Extended Range, and Faster Charging Arrive

Polestar is rolling out some pretty significant updates for the Polestar 2, and honestly, it's about time. This electric car has been around for a bit, and while it's always been a decent option, these changes should make it even more appealing. We're talking about a new battery for the entry-level model, which means better range, and faster charging speeds, so you won't be waiting around as long at charging stations. Plus, they've given the infotainment system a boost with a new processor, which should make using all the tech inside much smoother. It's good to see Polestar keeping its first model fresh and competitive.

Key Takeaways

• The Polestar 2 gets a new, slightly larger 70 kWh battery pack for the Standard Range Single Motor model, improving its WLTP range.

• Long Range versions of the Polestar 2 retain their existing 82 kWh battery pack.

• Charging speeds have been increased, with the entry-level model now accepting up to 135 kW DC charging, reducing 10-80% charge times.

• The infotainment system receives a significant upgrade with a new Qualcomm Snapdragon processor for a smoother and quicker user experience.

• New features include an optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a new 'Dune' exterior color option, with no changes to current pricing.

Enhanced Powertrain Options For The Polestar 2

Polestar has made some solid tweaks to the powertrain for the Polestar 2, focusing on giving drivers more options and better performance. It's not a complete overhaul, but the changes are definitely noticeable, especially if you're looking at the entry-level models.

New Battery Pack For Standard Range Model

The biggest news for the base model is the updated battery. Polestar has swapped out the previous 69 kWh battery for a slightly larger 70 kWh unit. While it might not sound like a huge jump, this change is part of the effort to improve the car's overall efficiency and range. It's a move that should make the everyday driving experience a bit more relaxed, knowing you've got that extra bit of juice.

Long Range Battery Remains Unchanged

If you're eyeing the Long Range versions, good news – the 82 kWh battery pack is still the one powering those models. Polestar decided to keep this proven unit as is, which means you'll still get the same strong performance and range figures you've come to expect from these higher-tier Polestar 2s. It's a solid battery that already offers a lot, so keeping it makes sense.

Performance Gains Across The Lineup

Beyond the battery specifics, Polestar has also managed to squeeze out a bit more performance from the motors. While the exact figures might vary slightly depending on the configuration, there's a general uplift in horsepower and torque across the board. This means quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel when you put your foot down. It’s not about turning the Polestar 2 into a track car, but these updates make it feel more lively and capable on the road. For instance, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive Performance model now boasts a combined output of 469 horsepower, a nice bump that translates to quicker sprints off the line. You can check out the latest Polestar 2 specs for the full breakdown.

Polestar seems to be focusing on refining what already works well, rather than reinventing the wheel. These powertrain updates are about making the Polestar 2 a more compelling package for a wider range of drivers.

Extended Driving Range And Charging Capabilities

Improved WLTP Range For Entry-Level Variant

The base model Polestar 2, the Standard Range Single Motor, is getting a new 70 kWh battery pack. This update bumps its WLTP estimated range up slightly, from 546 km to 554 km. It’s not a massive jump, but every bit of extra range helps, right?

Faster DC Charging Speeds

This is where things get really interesting. The Long Range Dual Motor variant can now handle DC charging speeds of up to 180kW. That’s a pretty solid increase from the previous 135kW. What does this mean for you? Well, it means less time tethered to a charger.

Reduced Charge Times For Key Models

With the faster charging capability, Polestar is claiming a 10% to 80% charge can now be done in just 26 minutes for certain models. That’s a welcome improvement for anyone who does longer trips and needs to top up quickly. It makes the idea of a road trip in the Polestar 2 feel a lot more practical. You can check out the latest charging information on the Polestar website.

The charging upgrades are a big deal for making EVs more user-friendly for everyday life and longer journeys. Getting back on the road faster after a stop is always a good thing.

Here's a quick look at the charging improvements:

• Up to 180 kW DC fast charging for Long Range models.

• 10% to 80% charge time reduced to approximately 26 minutes.

• New 70 kWh battery pack for the Standard Range model.

These changes make the Polestar 2 a more compelling option for those who value convenience and minimizing downtime.

Infotainment System Receives Significant Boost

The brains behind the Polestar 2's digital experience have gotten a serious workout. Polestar has swapped out the old processor for a new, more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon chip. This upgrade is all about making things run smoother and faster inside the car. You know how sometimes your phone gets a bit laggy? Well, this should help prevent that from happening with the car's screens and apps.

Upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor

This new chip is the heart of the infotainment system's improvements. It's designed to handle more complex tasks and process information quicker. Think of it like upgrading from an older computer to a brand-new one – everything just feels snappier.

Smoother User Experience

With the new Snapdragon processor, you should notice a big difference in how the system responds. Menus should load faster, and switching between different functions, like navigation and music, will feel more fluid. The goal is to make interacting with the car's technology feel less like a chore and more like a natural extension of driving.

Quicker In-Car Application Performance

Apps you use within the car, whether it's for navigation, media, or other functions, will also benefit. Expect them to launch faster and perform better, with less waiting time. This means less time staring at a loading screen and more time focused on the road.

The infotainment system is now powered by a more robust Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. This upgrade is intended to provide a more responsive and fluid user interface, improving the overall interaction with the vehicle's digital features. Expect faster app loading times and quicker transitions between different functions, making the in-car technology experience more pleasant.

Interior and Exterior Design Updates

Polestar is giving the 2 a bit of a refresh, focusing on some subtle but important updates to its looks and the materials inside. For starters, you can now get the car in a new color called Dune. It’s a warm, earthy tone that should stand out nicely in a parking lot. They've also decided to tint the rear side windows, which adds a bit of privacy and gives the car a sleeker profile. It’s a small change, but it really does make a difference to the overall appearance.

New Exterior Color Option: Dune

The addition of the Dune exterior paint is a welcome choice for those looking for something a little different. It’s not a flashy color, but it has a certain understated elegance that suits the Polestar 2’s design.

Tinted Rear Side Windows

Tinting the rear windows is a practical update. It helps keep the cabin cooler on sunny days and offers more privacy for passengers. Plus, it just looks good, giving the car a more finished appearance.

Optional Bowers & Wilkins Audio System

For the audiophiles out there, Polestar is now offering the premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system as an option. This system is known for its impressive sound quality, featuring 14 speakers and a hefty 1,350 watts of power. If you appreciate good audio, this is definitely something to consider. It's a significant upgrade from the standard setup and really makes the cabin feel more like a concert hall. You can find more details about the Polestar 2's features on their official site, including information on how the car handles on the road Polestar 2 handling.

The interior also sees some material updates, with an optional MicroTech upholstery in Charcoal paired with Black Ash decor. This combination, available with the Plus Pack, offers a sophisticated and modern feel, aligning with Polestar's commitment to premium, sustainable materials.

Polestar 2 Pricing and Package Options

When it comes to figuring out the cost of the updated Polestar 2, the good news is that the sticker price hasn't changed. You're looking at a starting MSRP of $62,400 for the Standard Range Single Motor model. The Long Range Single Motor comes in at $66,400, while the Long Range Dual Motor starts at $71,400. If you're eyeing the top-tier Long Range Dual Motor Performance version, that'll set you back $85,080, and that already includes the Plus pack.

No Change In Current Pricing

It's always a relief when manufacturers keep pricing stable, especially with upgrades. Polestar has managed to do just that for the 2026 model year, meaning you get more for your money without an increased investment. This makes the decision to go electric a bit easier for many.

Overview of Available Option Packs

Polestar offers several packages to customize your 2. These are designed to add comfort, performance, and convenience.

• Plus Pack: This is a popular choice, adding a fixed panoramic glass roof with a cool projected Polestar symbol, power-adjustable front seats with memory, extendable front seat cushions, and a Harman/Kardon sound system. It's priced at $4,700.

• Performance Pack: For those who want a sportier drive, this pack includes performance software, 20-inch performance wheels, upgraded chassis tuning, Brembo brakes, and Öhlins dampers. It costs $8,980 and requires the Plus Pack.

• Pro Pack: This adds some visual flair with 20-inch graphite wheels, a black seatbelt with a Swedish Gold stripe, and gold valve caps for $1,900.

• Climate Pack: Essential for colder regions, this pack includes heated rear seats, heated wiper nozzles, a heated steering wheel, and a heat pump for $1,500.

Details on Premium Add-Ons

Beyond the main packages, there are also individual options you can select:

• Pixel LED adaptive headlights: $1,600

• Bowers & Wilkins audio system: $3,500 (requires Plus Pack)

• Privacy glass for rear windows: $500

• Premium interior upholstery options, like Bridge of Weir leather, are also available, starting around $4,400 and requiring the Plus Pack.

It's worth noting that while the base prices remain the same, the cost can climb significantly once you start adding these desirable option packs and individual features. Carefully consider which ones are most important for your daily driving needs and budget before finalizing your configuration. You can explore pre-configured Polestar 3 cars for immediate delivery, which might give you an idea of how options can be bundled. check out available configurations

Performance Specifications and Acceleration

Polestar has really dialed in the performance for the updated Polestar 2. It's not just about going fast in a straight line; it's about how it feels when you put your foot down. The engineers have tweaked things across the board, so whether you're looking at the entry-level model or the top-tier performance version, you're going to notice a difference.

Zero to Sixty Times For Various Trims

The sprint from 0 to 60 mph has always been a key metric, and the Polestar 2 continues to impress. The Standard Range Single Motor variant now clocks in at 6.2 seconds, a solid improvement. If you opt for the Long Range Single Motor, you'll shave a bit more time off, hitting 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. For those who want all-wheel drive, the Long Range Dual Motor gets you there in a brisk 4.3 seconds. And if you really want to feel that instant electric torque, the Long Range Dual Motor with the Performance Pack is seriously quick, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.0 seconds. It's pretty amazing how quickly these cars can get up to speed.

Horsepower and Torque Figures

Power figures have seen a nice bump. The Standard Range Single Motor now puts out 268 horsepower and 361 lb-ft of torque. The Long Range Single Motor offers 295 hp and the same 361 lb-ft of torque. When you move to the dual-motor setup, the Long Range Dual Motor boasts a combined 416 hp and a substantial 546 lb-ft of torque. The top-dog Long Range Dual Motor with the Performance Pack really shines, with a total output of 469 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque. These numbers translate directly into that responsive acceleration you feel.

Top Speed Remains Consistent

While acceleration is a big focus, the top speed for all Polestar 2 models remains capped at 127 mph. This is a common practice for electric vehicles, balancing performance with battery management and safety. It's more than enough speed for any legal road, and the focus is clearly on getting you up to speed quickly and efficiently rather than chasing extremely high top-end velocities.

Polestar has made some significant adjustments to the powertrain, aiming for a more engaging driving experience across all models. The updated figures show a clear commitment to improving acceleration and overall responsiveness, making the Polestar 2 an even more compelling option in the electric vehicle market.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Artful and Modern Interior Design

The Polestar 2's cabin really leans into a minimalist, modern aesthetic. It feels clean and uncluttered, with a nice blend of materials like wood, fabric, and plastic. You'll notice some familiar touches from Volvo, like the steering wheel buttons and the distinctive start knob, but the overall vibe here is less busy and more focused. It’s a space that feels thoughtfully put together, aiming for a sophisticated yet straightforward experience.

Eco-Friendly Upholstery Options

In line with its electric powertrain, Polestar has made a point of using eco-friendly materials inside. Most models come standard with a vegan fabric upholstery, which is a great option for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint. If you prefer something more traditional, there's also an optional Nappa leather available for those who want that classic premium feel.

Cargo Capacity and Frunk Storage

When it comes to hauling stuff, the Polestar 2 offers a decent amount of space. The main cargo area in the rear provides about 14 cubic feet of room, which is enough for most everyday needs and weekend trips. It’s not the biggest trunk out there, but it’s practical. Plus, there’s a little extra storage up front in the frunk, adding another cubic foot for things like charging cables or a small bag. This front trunk is handy for keeping those items separate from your main luggage. Folding down the rear seats can expand the cargo capacity significantly, making it more versatile for larger items. You can get a better idea of the storage options by looking at the Polestar 2 hatchback's practical storage solutions.

The interior design prioritizes a clean, uncluttered look, using a mix of quality materials and eco-conscious options. While the cargo space is adequate for daily use, the addition of the frunk provides that extra bit of utility often appreciated in electric vehicles.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Polestar 2 comes with a good set of safety and driver-assistance features that should give you some extra peace of mind on the road. It's always smart to check out official safety ratings, and you can find those on sites like the NHTSA and IIHS.

Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection: This system is designed to help prevent or lessen the severity of frontal collisions. It can automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential impact with another vehicle or a pedestrian.

• Standard adaptive cruise control: This feature helps maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front of you, making highway driving a bit more relaxed.

• Standard blind-spot monitoring: This system alerts you if a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, which is really helpful when changing lanes.

Polestar has packed a lot of these important safety systems in as standard, which is a nice touch. It means you don't have to pay extra for some of the most common and useful driver aids.

For more details on how the Polestar 2 performs in safety tests, you might want to look up its crash-test results on the NHTSA website.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

When you're investing in a new electric vehicle like the Polestar 2, it's good to know what kind of support you'll get after you drive it off the lot. Polestar has you covered with a solid warranty package that's pretty much in line with what other EV makers are doing.

Industry-Standard Limited Warranty

Polestar offers a limited warranty that covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is pretty standard across the automotive industry, giving you a good baseline of protection for the main parts of the car.

Electrical Component Coverage

Since it's an EV, the electrical bits are super important. Polestar backs up the electrical components, including the battery and motor, for a longer period: eight years or 100,000 miles. This is great news because it means they're confident in the longevity of these key EV systems. It's always smart to check the specifics of what's covered under this, but generally, it's a strong commitment.

Complimentary Maintenance Plan

To make things even easier, Polestar includes a complimentary maintenance plan for the first three years or 30,000 miles. This covers scheduled servicing, so you don't have to worry about those routine check-ups and fluid changes for a good while. It really takes the guesswork out of keeping your Polestar 2 in top shape. For more details on extended coverage options, you might want to look into Premier Auto Protect.

Keeping your car maintained is key to its long-term health and performance. Knowing that scheduled services are covered for the first few years can really ease your mind as you get used to your new electric ride.

Availability and Market Rollout

So, when can you actually get your hands on this upgraded Polestar 2? Well, the company is rolling it out in stages, which is pretty typical for new car releases.

The 2026 Polestar 2 is available now in Europe (excluding Iceland and Ireland), Hong Kong, and Israel. If you're in one of those spots, you might be able to configure yours online right now. For the rest of us, Polestar has plans to bring the updated EV to more places as the year progresses. It's a bit of a wait if you're not in those initial markets, but good things come to those who wait, right?

Here's a quick look at how the rollout is shaping up:

• Initial Launch Markets: Europe (select countries), Hong Kong, and Israel are the first to get it.

• Global Expansion: Polestar is working on bringing the updated model to additional countries throughout the year.

• Configuration: You can usually spec out your new Polestar 2 on their local website once it's officially launched in your region.

It's always a bit of a puzzle figuring out exactly when a new car will land in your specific country. Polestar seems to be taking a measured approach, starting with key markets before expanding. Keep an eye on their official website for the most up-to-date information regarding availability in your area. For instance, a Polestar owner shared that their Model Year 2026 vehicle, ordered shortly after its release, shipped recently and is expected to be delivered in late August. This aligns with the August release date for the 2026 models.

Polestar is also expanding its physical presence, with plans to open more retail locations. For example, they're launching in France, starting with a retail presence in Le Mans in July. The company plans to expand its presence to up to ten additional cities by the end of the year, allowing customers to engage with their vehicles.

The Polestar 2 Keeps Getting Better

So, Polestar is really sticking with the Polestar 2, huh? It’s been around for a bit, but these updates make it feel fresh again. Getting more miles on a charge and charging up quicker is always good news, especially if you do longer drives. Plus, the faster infotainment should make using the car day-to-day a bit nicer. It seems like Polestar is listening to feedback and making solid improvements, keeping the Polestar 2 a strong contender in the electric car world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's new with the Polestar 2's battery?

The Polestar 2 now has a slightly bigger battery for the basic Standard Range model, going from 69 kWh to 70 kWh. This helps it go a little further on a full charge. The bigger battery for the Long Range versions stays the same.

Does the Polestar 2 go further on a charge now?

Yes, the entry-level Polestar 2 can now travel about 334 miles on a single charge, which is a small increase from its previous range. The Long Range models have different range numbers.

How is the car's screen system better?

The car's computer system, which controls things like music and navigation, has been updated with a faster chip. This means the screen will respond quicker, and apps should load faster, making the whole experience smoother.

Can the Polestar 2 charge faster?

The Polestar 2 can charge faster at charging stations that use DC power. The Standard Range model can now charge up to 135 kW, and the Long Range models can charge even faster, up to 205 kW. This means less waiting time when you need to charge up.

Are there any new looks or colors for the Polestar 2?

Yes, there's a new color option called 'Dune' for the outside of the car. Also, the back side windows now have a tinted look, adding a bit more style.

Is there a better sound system available?

You can now get a really nice sound system from Bowers & Wilkins with 14 speakers. It's an optional upgrade if you really love your music.

Did the price of the Polestar 2 go up?

The prices for the Polestar 2 haven't changed with these new updates. You can still get different packages and add-ons, like the Plus pack or Performance pack, to customize your car.

What safety features does the Polestar 2 have?

The Polestar 2 comes with safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control (which helps keep a set distance from the car in front), and blind-spot monitoring to help you drive safer.