Polestar 3 Review: 5,000‑Mile Test Reveals Stunning Design but a Troubling Digital Key
Bottom line: After 5,000 miles the Polestar 3 impresses with its sleek, estate‑like shape, strong 510 bhp performance and fast 250 kW charging, but its digital‑key system remains a daily headache.
Polestar 3 Review: 5,000‑Mile Test Reveals Stunning Design but a Troubling Digital Key
Image: Polestar 3 Review: 5,000‑Mile Test Reveals Stunning Design but a Troubling Digital Key – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The Polestar 3 breaks the mould of the usual tall hatchbacks. It looks like a raised, sporty estate with a low roofline and crisp Scandinavian lines. Inside, the cabin feels spacious and premium – large touchscreen, clean dash, and even a tactile volume knob that makes the tech feel human. The design is unique enough that it’s hard to name a direct rival.
Performance & Mileage
The Long‑Range model we drove carries a 107 kWh usable battery and two permanent‑magnet motors delivering 510 bhp. Zero‑to‑62 mph happens in 4.7 seconds, and the car feels planted thanks to Brembo brakes and a sport‑tuned chassis from the Performance Pack. Real‑world range, however, falls short of the quoted 350 mi – we see about 220‑260 mi depending on speed and weather. The good news is the 250 kW fast‑charge capability adds roughly 40 % range in a 15‑minute stop.
| Engine | Dual‑motor 510 bhp, 671 lb‑ft torque, 4WD |
|---|---|
| Mileage | Real‑world 220‑260 mi (≈2.3 mpkWh) |
| Price | £90,800 (tested), £81,500 base |
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Price & Rivals
At just under £91,000 the Polestar 3 sits between the BMW iX M60 and the Volvo EX90 in price. Compared with the iX M60 it feels lighter on the road and offers a more engaging drive, while the EX90 shares the same platform but lacks the Polestar’s sportier styling and performance‑pack options. If you want a fast electric grand tourer without the bulk of a traditional SUV, the 3 makes a strong case.
FAQ
- What is the real‑world range of the Polestar 3? Expect about 220‑260 mi on mixed driving; the official 350 mi claim is optimistic.
- Is the Polestar 3 worth buying despite the digital key issue? The car’s driving dynamics and fast charging outweigh the key inconvenience for most buyers, especially after the recent hardware recall.
- How fast can the Polestar 3 charge? Up to 250 kW now, with a software update promising up to 350 kW in newer builds.
What do you think of the Polestar 3’s design, performance, and key problem? Leave a comment below.
Source: Read Official News
