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Polestar 2: batteries, engines and trims
The Polestar 2 is an electric fastback, produced since 2019-2020 as a model of the joint Polestar brand of Volvo and Geely. In this article, we review the battery and engine options, trims, and what to check when buying used.
Polestar 2 in brief
The Polestar 2 is a compact-sized electric car with a higher body, built on the Volvo CMA platform. Its interior features plenty of digital solutions: a vertical central screen operates with a Google-integrated system, and there's no need for a traditional key.
This car is already quite common in the used market, and its popularity is driven by its design, quick acceleration, and high-quality interior. Before buying, find out exactly which battery and engine are fitted.
Which version to choose
Early versions (2020–2021) had only the powerful dual-motor option with all-wheel drive. Later, cheaper single-motor versions with front-wheel drive emerged, and then an update (around 2023–2024) brought rear-wheel drive and a larger battery.
If price and efficiency are most important, choose the single-motor version. If you want quicker acceleration and better grip, opt for the dual-motor variant.
Engines and transmissions
The Polestar 2 has a single-speed transmission (there's no traditional gearbox). Early versions had around a 78 kWh battery, and later a smaller 64 kWh capacity battery was offered for the cheaper version.
The two-engine versions offer around 400 hp, while the single-engine variants provide around 230–300 hp, depending on the year. Check the exact figures for the specific car in question.
What to check when buying a used Polestar 2
Request a battery health report and ensure the software has been updated. Early versions were plagued with software issues, so test the screen, voice control, and driver assistance systems.
Use the VIN to check if all manufacturer recall work has been completed. Also, test both slow and fast charging.
Inspect the wheels and tyres, as powerful electric cars wear them out quickly, as well as the boot lid and hinges.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Standard Range Single Motor
2021 – presentThe cheaper single-engine version with a smaller battery.
- Front-wheel drive
- Smaller battery, shorter range
- Often – 18-inch wheels
Long Range Single Motor
2022 – presentSingle-engine version with a larger battery.
- Longer range
- Front or rear-wheel drive depending on the year
- Often — more luxurious equipment
Long Range Dual Motor
2020 onwardsMost powerful version with all-wheel drive.
- All-wheel drive
- Very quick acceleration
- Often — Performance package
Plus paketas
2020 onwardsAdditional equipment package (names vary by market).
- Often — panoramic roof
- Often — heated seats and steering wheel
- Often — Harman Kardon sound system
Performance paketas
2020 onwardsSporty equipment for the Dual Motor version.
- Often — Brembo brakes
- Often — 20-inch wheels
- Often — adjustable suspension
Comparing versions
| Standard Range | Long Range Single | Long Range Dual | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For city and daily driving | For longer distances | For dynamic driving |
| Common wheels | 18–19 inch | 19 inch | 19–20 inch |
| Transmission | Front or rear-wheel drive | Front or rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Battery | Around 64 kWh | Around 78 kWh or more | Around 78 kWh or more |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
Most drivers will find the Long Range Single Motor a good balance of price and range. The Dual Motor is worth considering for speed and all-wheel drive.
Pros
- Distinctive Scandinavian design
- Quick acceleration
- Modern software and Google integration
- High-quality interior
Cons
- Early software glitches
- Large mass and rapid tyre wear
- Stiff ride on rough roads, especially with larger wheels
Frequently asked questions
Does the Polestar 2 have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Dual Motor version has all-wheel drive. Single-motor versions come with front-wheel drive or (in newer models) rear-wheel drive.
How much does it cost to charge a Polestar 2?
The cost depends on the electricity rate and charging location. Charging at home is usually cheaper than using public fast-charging stations.
Does the Polestar 2 have a key fob?
The car can be unlocked with a phone or key card, and there's no need to insert it: just sit inside, press the brake, and it's ready to go.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
