The 2025 Polestar 3 is slated to be the Swedish automaker’s first entry into the crowded luxury electric SUV segment. With a sleek Scandinavian design, dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrains producing up to 517 horsepower, and a projected EPA estimated range of up to 315 miles, the Polestar 3 aims to stand out.
It will also feature the latest advanced driver-assistance technologies when equipped with the optional Pilot package including lidar. Pricing is estimated to start from $73,400 for the Long-Range Dual Motor variant. Its spacious and premium interior, packed with advanced driver-assistance systems and connectivity features, further elevates the driving experience.
The Polestar 3 marks an important step for Polestar as it diversifies its lineup and targets a broader audience. While there is news circling that Mazda, Subaru, and Toyota are working on next-gen combustion engines to bring down the cost and increase performance, it will be exciting to see the competition among all.
Polestar’s Journey from Volvo’s Tuner to Independent EV Brand
Originally founded in 1996 as a performance arm of Volvo, Polestar spent over two decades modifying and tuning Volvo vehicles. In 2017, Polestar officially separated from its parent company Volvo to transform into an independent brand focusing solely on electric performance vehicles.
Its first in-house vehicle was the hybrid Polestar 1 roadster launched in 2019. This was followed by the Polestar 2 electric sedan in 2020 which utilized a shared Volvo platform but moved Polestar fully into battery-powered vehicles.
Now with the Polestar 3, it will be the brand’s first model to use an dedicated EV platform developed independently from the start. This solidifies Polestar’s transition from Volvo’s tuner division to a standalone brand targeting the premium electric vehicle market with around 90,000 vehicles sold annually projected by 2025.
Impressive 315-Mile Range and 250kW Fast Charging for the Polestar 3
The Polestar 3 estimates to have a range of 315 miles on a single charge according to EPA calculations. This estimated range makes it one of the longer range electric SUVs currently available.
With its 111 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, drivers can travel long distances without stopping for charging. The 3 is also capable of charging at rates up to 250 kW on DC fast chargers. At this maximum charging rate, the battery can replenish from 10% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes only.
This allows owners to quickly top up the battery during road trips or longer daily commutes. The 11 kW onboard charger means fully charging the battery at home takes around 11 hours when plugged into a Level 2 charger.
The Polestar 3 delivers a strong combination of estimated driving range and fast charging capability to minimize charging stops.
Comparing the Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90, A Tale of Two EVs
Both the Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90 are based on the same SPA2 platform from parent company Volvo. However, they differ in size and intended use. The Polestar 3 is 5.4 inches shorter and 4.7 inches lower than the EX90 to give it a sportier profile.
It also forfeits the third row of seats available in the EX90, making the Volvo more suitable for families. While the EX90 prioritizes passenger space and cargo capacity, the 3 focuses more on driving dynamics.
The 3 produces higher power outputs than the EX90’s base powertrain, with the Performance version making 517 horsepower compared to 402 in the EX90. The Polestar feels more athletic to drive with tighter handling, but the Volvo smooths out imperfections in the road more.
Both high-performance EVs represent luxury options in the market, but with distinct personalities appealing to different customer groups.
Pilot Pack with LiDAR Elevates Autonomous Driving Capabilities
The Polestar 3 comes with advanced driver assistance systems as standard but owners can opt for the Pilot Pack that enhances safety. This pack adds a roof-mounted LiDAR that uses laser scanning to generate a 360-degree high-resolution image around the SUV.
It identifies up to 250 objects within a 250-meter radius at all times. The LiDAR combined with 5 other radars and 5 cameras allows for detailed 3D monitoring to perceive distances, speeds and classifications of objects.
With this advanced sensory system, the Polestar 3 has the capabilities for SAE Level 4 autonomous driving where the vehicle can drive itself under certain conditions, but a driver needs to be present. The latest software updates will continue improving the autonomous mode.
This pack substantially improves safety on the roads as drivers can rely on the vehicle systems during traffic or bad weather conditions.
Emerging as a New Contender in the Luxury EV Space
The Polestar 3 is well positioned to compete against other premium electric SUVs from established automakers. It offers a spacious interior with sustainable materials, a long driving range of up to 315 miles and fast charging abilities.
The sporty handling, agility and powerful dual-motor powertrains set it apart from mass market competitors too. With a starting price of $73,400 it is competitively priced as well. Automakers like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have successful luxury brands but are still working on refining their electric offerings.
Polestar is new but plans to leverage parent company Geely’s manufacturing expertise and Volvo’s design flair. Early reviews have praised its futuristic technologies, performance and Scandinavian design. With new models in the pipeline, Polestar could emerge as a major player in the global premium EV segment.
Final Words
The 2025 Polestar 3 presents itself as an attractive option for buyers looking to make the switch to an electric luxury SUV. It builds upon the success of the Polestar 2 with an increased suite of standard advanced driver assistance features, impressive maximum range and powerful drivetrains.
Choices like the Pilot Pack with LiDAR further future-proof the vehicle and provide a more relaxing transportation experience through partial self-driving capabilities.
While it enters a competitive space, Polestar carves its own niche with a more driver-focused character compared to some competitors who prioritize practicality over performance.
With a refined interior, striking Scandinavian design language and seamless integration of the latest infotainment and connectivity technologies, the Polestar 3 is poised to emerge as one of the leading electric luxury SUVs in the market.
