Are you tired of gas-guzzling SUVs but still want a luxurious ride? Enter the Polestar 3 – a sleek electric SUV that’s turning heads. This Swedish beauty starts at $93,000 and promises a range of up to 506 kilometres.
We were invited to the Canadian launch of the all-new Polestar 3, Polestar’s second mass market production vehicle. We were invited to Vancouver Island in British Columbia, to put the Polestar 3 through its paces.
Key Takeaways
In Canada, the Polestar 3 starts at $93,200 and offers up to 506 kilometres of range, with two model variants available.
It features a 111-kWh battery pack, producing 489-517 horsepower depending on the trim, and can charge at 250 kW on DC fast chargers.
The SUV accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.2-4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph, with handling enhanced by a 50:50 weight split and air suspension.
Its infotainment system runs on Android Automotive OS with a 14.5-inch screen, and safety features include auto braking, pedestrian detection, and optional Pilot Assist.
The Polestar 3 competes with luxury electric SUVs like the BMW iX and Tesla Model Y, offering a balance of performance, range, and sustainability.
Table of Contents
Overview of the 2025 Polestar 3
The 2025 Polestar 3 is turning heads in the EV world. It’s a sleek SUV that’s ready to take on the big boys like Tesla and Audi.
Starting Price and Model Variants
Polestar 3 comes in three trims in the United States and two trims in Canada. In the US, there’s a single motor variant available, while in Canada, only dual-motor variants are offered. The “base” Long range Dual Motor starts at $93,200 – not cheap, but hey, you’re getting Swedish style. Want more oomph? The Long Range Dual Motor Performance jumps to $100,200. These prices don’t include delivery charges of $2,700 and of course, the dreaded taxes.
The Polestar 3 doesn’t qualify for any Canadian EV incentives due to its starting price.
Performance
The Polestar 3 packs a punch under the hood. It’s got the muscle to make your heart race and the smarts to keep you safe on the road.
Electric motor/battery Specifications
The Polestar 3′ packs a serious punch. Its base model boasts a beefy 489 horsepower, while the performance trim kicks it up to 517 horses. Both versions use a 111-kWh battery pack – that’s a lot of juice! This power plant isn’t just strong; it’s smart too.
It can charge at blazing speeds, hitting 250 kW on DC fast chargers. That means less time plugged in and more time cruising.
But all that muscle comes with some heft. The Polestar 3 tips the scales between 5,750 and 5,950 pounds. It’s no lightweight, but that’s par for the course with electric SUVs. The upside? All that weight helps plant it firmly on the road.
Plus, with all-wheel drive standard, you’ll have grip for days – whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling twisty back roads.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The Polestar 3 packs a serious punch under the hood. This electric beast zips from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 to 4.5 seconds, depending on the model. That’s quick enough to leave many gas-guzzlers in the dust.
For those who crave more oomph, the Performance Pack shaves off a few tenths – but it’ll cost you some range.
Speed isn’t just about the numbers… it’s about the thrill.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Polestar 3 handles like a dream. Its Torque-Vectoring Dual Clutch system makes corners a breeze. You’ll feel glued to the road, thanks to the car’s 50:50 weight split and low center of gravity.
The battery sits low, keeping you steady even in tight turns.
But that’s not all – this EV’s got tricks up its sleeve. Its air suspension adjusts 500 times every second. That means a smooth ride on any road. Add in those grippy Pirelli summer tires, and you’ve got a recipe for fun driving.
My first experience with the Polestar 3 was on the race track and on an off-road track, which is exactly what this car will be used for… Okay, maybe not, I’m 100% certain not a single Polestar 3 will make onto a track in the hands of its owners. But Polestar wanted us to experience the performance on a race track, and it was impressive. We all know EVs can accelerate extremely quickly, but handling is a different story. Although the “3” is an SUV/CUV and is heavy, it handled pretty impressively on the tight corners of Vancouver Island Motorsport circuit. The Polestar 3 is no sports car, but I was impressed with the way it handled the corners, it hides its weight nicely, and gave me a lot of confidence driving fast in tight corners.
The off-road part was even more impressive, the Polestar 3 was able to go over some pretty extreme obstacles, which you will not find at your local mall. However, just knowing the “3” can perform well in some pretty challenging off-road situation should bring owners peace of mind. The pictures below might show you what the Polestar 3 is capable, but I know pictures can never do it justice.
I didn’t get too much time on the streets, since the day’s schedule was quite packed. However, what little did I drive the Polestar 3 on the streets, I was impressed with it’s smooth and luxurious drive, the cabin was quiet, and there was a good amount of space. I will be doing a full week-long review at some point in the near future, to get a good understanding of what this car can do in an environment where it will spend most (more like all) of its time.
Key Competitors
Moving from price points to rivals, let’s compare the Polestar 3’s competition. The luxury electric SUV market is getting competitive, with several big names aiming for the top spot.
- Porsche Macan EV: This sporty electric SUV brings Porsche’s performance DNA to the EV world. It’s got the looks and the punch to challenge the Polestar 3.
- Genesis Electrified GV70: It’s the more affordable option in this list. But don’t let the price fool you – it’s loaded with luxury features and smooth performance.
- BMW iX: It’s more expensive than the Polestar 3, but it offers advanced tech and that distinctive BMW driving experience.
- Volvo EX90: This is Polestar’s relative from Volvo. It shares some DNA with the Polestar 3 but focuses more on family-friendly luxury.
- Audi SQ6 e-tron: This electric SUV brings Audi’s signature style and tech to the EV market. It’s a strong competitor with its mix of performance and luxury.
Design and Styling
The Polestar 3’s sleek lines turn heads. Its bold stance and smooth curves scream luxury – but with a twist.
Exterior Features
The Polestar 3 turns heads with its sharp looks. Its sleek roofline and low hood give it a sporty vibe. Big wheels add to this cool factor, making the car stand out on the road. But it’s not just about looks – there’s smart design at work here too.
Up front, you’ll spot a unique aero wing on the hood. This isn’t just for show – it helps push the car down, keeping it stable at high speeds. At the back, a hatch spoiler does double duty.
It looks great and helps the car cut through the air better. These features aren’t just eye candy; they make the Polestar 3 a real performer on the road.
Interior Comfort and Layout
Step inside the Polestar 3, and you’ll find a cabin that’s both sleek and spacious. It boasts 58 cubic feet of passenger room up front and 48 in the back. That’s plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
The interior design takes cues from Tesla’s clean look, but adds its own flair. High-end, eco-friendly materials like chrome-free Nappa leather and Black Ash wood trim give it a luxe feel.
Storage is a strong point in this electric SUV. Behind the front seats, you’ve got 47 cubic feet to work with. Even with the rear seats up, there’s still 18 cubic feet in the trunk.
And don’t forget the frunk – that little 1 cubic foot space up front is perfect for small items. It’s clear Polestar put a lot of thought into making this interior both comfy and practical.
Now, let’s dive into what really makes this car tick – its performance metrics.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. – Leonardo da Vinci
Advanced Technology Features
The Polestar 3 is packed with cutting-edge tech. Its infotainment system and safety features are top-notch – they’ll blow your mind!
Infotainment System
The Polestar 3’s infotainment system is a tech lover’s dream. It boasts a huge 14.5-inch screen that stands tall in the center of the dash. This display runs on Android Automotive OS, making it super easy to use.
You’ll feel right at home if you’re used to Android phones.
But it’s not just about looks. This system packs a punch with features. You can control almost everything in the car through it – from climate to music. It even has built-in apps, so you don’t need to plug in your phone.
Speaking of phones, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are on board. Next up, let’s dive into the safety features that’ll keep you safe on the road.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Innovations
The Polestar 3 takes safety seriously. It’s loaded with technology to protect you. Standard features include auto braking, pedestrian detection, and lane warnings. These work together to avoid accidents and keep you on course.
Plus, the adaptive cruise control makes long drives easier.
If you want extra protection, there’s the optional Pilot Assist system. This smart setup uses lasers and cameras to control your speed and keep you centered in your lane. It’s like having a helper, without the unwanted advice.
And don’t forget the warranty – 4 years or 50,000 miles for the basics, and an impressive 8 years or 100,000 miles for the electric components.
Safety isn’t just a feature in the Polestar 3 – it’s a core part of its design.
Charging Options and Times
The Polestar 3 offers various charging options to suit different needs. Let’s dive into the details of how you can juice up this electric beast:
- DC Fast Charging: The Polestar 3 can handle up to 250 kW at DC fast-charge stations. This means you can add serious miles in just a short coffee break.
- Home Charging: Plug it in overnight, and you’re good to go in the morning. A standard wall outlet works, but a Level 2 charger will fill up the battery much faster.
- Public Charging Stations: You’ll find plenty of options out there. From shopping malls to parking garages, charging spots are popping up everywhere.
- Charging Times: With DC fast charging, you can go from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. That’s quick enough to grab a snack and hit the road again.
- Range Anxiety? What’s That?: The Polestar 3’s long range means you won’t be constantly hunting for the next charging spot. It’s built for road trips, not pit stops.
Conclusion
The Polestar 3 is an impressive electric vehicle, it has a good amount of range, lots of power, is luxurious, and looks quite stylish. Although, it’s not cheap, it’s fairly competitively priced against other luxury electric SUVs.
Although, I didn’t get a true world feel for the Polestar 3, to test out how fast it charges and how much range it achieves in real world testing, I was impressed with it in the little time I spent with it. I will be able to get a good feel for it when I do a full review in the upcoming months, so stay tuned.
People Also Ask
How does the Polestar 3 handle on icy roads?
The Polestar 3 shines on slippery surfaces. Its active stability control and torque vectoring work overtime to keep you on track. Picture this: you’re cruising on a frozen lake near Jokkmokk, Sweden, and the car sticks like glue. It’s a far cry from the old Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X days.
What’s the scoop on the Polestar 3’s driver-assistance features?
This ride’s got your back. With lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and cyclist detection, it’s like having a guardian angel on board. The semi-autonomous features are a step up from the Polestar 2. Just don’t expect it to drive itself like some futuristic robot car!
Can the Polestar 3 use Tesla’s Supercharger network?
Not yet, but change is in the air. Polestar’s working on NACS charging compatibility. For now, you’ll have to stick to other DC fast-charging options. It’s not as convenient as Tesla’s setup, but it gets the job done.
