New 2027 Polestar 2 set to take on the BMW i3

Polestar is replacing its best-selling model and taking direct aim at the BMW i3. The successor promises more space, chassis technology from the Polestar 5 and, for the first time, a low, sporty body.

Key facts:

• Chassis development draws on the Polestar 5, including active dampers and steering
• Longer body, more rear-seat space and a lower profile
• New platform shared with Volvo, Lotus and Zeekr

Technology & chassis: Drawing on the Polestar 5

The Polestar 2's successor is slated for 2027, with an unveiling expected next year. It will be the brand's first model to replace an existing vehicle. Head of vehicle dynamics Joakim Rydholm told Auto Express that the new Polestar 2 needs to beat the upcoming BMW i3, setting a clear development target. The car will use a new EV platform intended to be shared with fellow group brands Volvo, Lotus and Zeekr. Its chassis will draw on active damper technology and steering tuning developed for the Polestar 5 grand tourer. According to Rydholm, whether the flagship's adaptive MagneRide suspension would be financially viable in the midsize EV remains undecided. An 800-volt architecture is expected for future models but has not been confirmed.

Equipment, context & competition: Lower, longer, pricing still unannounced

Design chief Philipp Römers and CEO Michael Lohscheller are aiming for a lower, sportier body. The current 2 measures just over 181 inches long. Adding roughly 4 inches would bring it in line with the BMW i3 and provide more rear-seat space, addressing one of the most frequent complaints about the existing model. Inside, plans call for a driver-focused cockpit with an angled screen and bolder colors. The facelifted model produces between 264 and 410 hp, depending on the version, while the Long Range variant offers 408 miles of range. The related Volvo EX60 ranges from 364 to 563 hp and offers a range of 503 miles. Pricing for the new 2 and BMW i3 has yet to be announced. With the successor, Polestar is addressing the current model's main weaknesses. Targeting the BMW i3 shows how high the company is setting its sights, although firm specifications will only follow at the 2027 unveiling.

Translator: Enrico Frahn - Senior Tech Writer - 10740 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021

My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.