Why we’re running it: A switch from FWD to RWD brings better range, efficiency and drivability – but what about everyday appeal?
Month 1 - Specs
Life with a Polestar 2: Month 1
Welcoming the Polestar 2 to the fleet - 29 May 2024
Sometimes in this job, we go on drives in cars that we don't end up writing about because we've told you everything you need to know about it already.
I had one such drive late last year in a Polestar 2 - a car then recently facelifted and a few weeks earlier subjected to a full Autocar road test. I had some time in it before a flight home following the inaugural Polestar Day in Los Angeles, where the Swedish electric car maker unveiled its future model plans and strategy.
What I had thought would be a chance to fill my knowledge bank and to catch up with my road test colleagues turned into one of the most memorable drives that I had all year - and not just for the rather lovely Californian autumn sun and scenery.
The 2 was as little as I remembered. Pre-facelift, this 4.6m-long fastback was likeable but not an automatic choice in a market ever expanding with choice. While a creditable first effort, it wasn't outstanding and felt alternative in its positioning and execution.
Its mid-life facelift brought with it most of the customary changes, like some updated visuals and extra kit, along with the 'usual' for EVs of more range and improved battery and motor technology.
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The explanation (more torque for forward motion?) about why the rear drive layout is more efficient than fwd doesn't make any sense to me, maybe there are other factors involved. I can see some advantages in ride and handling and steering to be gained by rear drive against which it's probably a disadvantage in terms of energy recovery due to the effect of braking applied to the rear wheels threatening stability.
Either way, manufacturers seem evenly split on front v rear drive when it comes to mid size EVs.
Should have had a Volvo badge, end of.