Polestar has given the Polestar 2 a major update for the 2024 model year. The EV will feature a new high-tech front end that reflects the design language premiered by Polestar 3 featuring the SmartZone, which hosts active safety features like the front-facing camera and mid-range radar. The 2024 model also includes substantial performance increases with all-new electric motors, a more powerful battery, sustainability improvements and, for the first time in a Polestar, rear-wheel drive.

Polestar 2 first entered the EV market in 2019. The Polestar 2 is now available in 27 markets globally and surpassed the 100,000-unit production mark in late 2022.

Next-generation electric motors and inverters have been fitted to both Polestar 2 variants. The single-motor variant is now rear-wheel driven, powered by a newly developed permanent magnet motor and silicon carbide inverter. The new motor has a power output of 299 hp (increased from 231 hp) and is optimized for maximum efficiency and high torque (361 lb.-ft., up from 243 lb.-ft.). The 0-60 mph sprint time has been reduced by as much as 1.1 seconds, down to 5.9 seconds.

The dual-motor version now has a rear-drive bias that is completely re-balanced, the company says. The new rear motor is the primary drive source, supported on the front axle by a new asynchronous motor. This enables higher total system output of 421 hp and 546 lb.-ft. (increased from the original 408 hp and 467 lb.-ft.), with 0-60 mph now achieved in 4.3 seconds. The front motor can now be disengaged completely when not needed. When the driver wants more power, the front motor re-engages instantly and seamlessly, Polestar says.

A total of 455 hp is available with the optional Performance Pack, and a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.1 seconds. The increase in power, performance and driving enjoyment is also available to purchase as a downloadable over-the-air performance software upgrade for any eligible long range dual motor cars.

Preliminary expected range improvements are in effect for both versions due to the optimization of power delivery from the more powerful motors. The front motor disconnect function on the long-range dual motor variant is particularly effective at maximizing range, which is now up to 270 miles EPA, Polestar says. The long-range single motor version benefits from a new, larger battery of 82 kWh and is now capable of up to 300 miles. Maximum charging speed for this version is now 205 kW DC.