Polestar vs Volvo – Are They Really Different?
Bottom line: Polestar’s electric models share the same DNA, design language and price range as Volvo’s new EVs, making it hard to tell them apart.
Polestar vs Volvo: Could All These Polestars Have Been Volvos?
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Image: Polestar vs Volvo: Could All These Polestars Have Been Volvos? – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
At first glance the Polestar 2, Polestar 3 and the upcoming Volvo ES90 look like siblings. All three have the sleek, Scandinavian silhouette that Volvo is famous for – clean lines, a long roofline and a low, wide stance. The ES90’s profile even mirrors the Polestar 2, which can confuse anyone walking past a showroom.
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- Polestar 2 – compact fastback, sportier front grille.
- Polestar 3 – taller, crossover‑style body, still very much a Volvo look.
- Volvo ES90 – full‑size electric saloon, elegant side‑profile that feels like an enlarged Polestar.
Both brands use the same Swedish design team, so the visual differences are subtle – mainly wheel design and badge placement.
Performance & Mileage
All three cars are pure electric, built on the same platform, and they deliver similar range figures. Real‑world tests show they can each travel about 300‑350 miles on a single charge, which is plenty for most families. Acceleration is also comparable – 0‑60 mph in roughly 5‑6 seconds for the Polestar 2 and 3, and a slightly slower 6‑7 seconds for the heavier ES90.
- Fast charging: 0‑80% in around 30 minutes (150 kW).
- Regenerative braking is tuned to feel like a Volvo – smooth and predictable.
- All models offer a single‑speed electric motor with up to 300 kW total output.
Price & Rivals
Pricing puts the three models directly against each other and against the likes of the VW ID.4, Mercedes‑EQE and Tesla Model 3. The Polestar 2 starts at about £45,000, the Polestar 3 at £55,000 and the Volvo ES90 tops out around £80,000. Company‑car lease deals make the numbers look a bit more attractive, but outright sales have been modest.
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Because the badge is the only real differentiator, many buyers wonder if they are just paying extra for the Polestar name.
| Model | Engine | Mileage (WLTP) | Price (UK) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polestar 2 | Electric (single motor) | 310 mi | £45,000 | Google‑based infotainment, minimalist interior, sport suspension |
| Polestar 3 | Electric (dual motor AWD) | 330 mi | £55,000 | All‑wheel drive, higher ground clearance, larger cargo space |
| Volvo ES90 | Electric (dual motor AWD) | 340 mi | £80,000 | Luxury cabin, advanced safety suite, spacious rear seat |
FAQ
- What is the real‑world range of a Polestar 2? Around 300‑310 miles, depending on driving style and temperature.
- Is the Volvo ES90 just a bigger Polestar? It shares the same platform and powertrain, but adds a more premium interior and extra rear‑seat space.
- Should I choose Polestar over Volvo for an electric family car? If brand loyalty matters, Volvo offers a familiar name; if you prefer sportier styling, Polestar might feel fresher. Both deliver similar performance and efficiency.
What do you think – are Polestar models just re‑badged Volvos, or do they bring enough uniqueness to justify the extra badge? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
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