The Polestar 2 78 kWh Long Range Dual Motor AWD, produced from March 2020 to January 2023, represents a significant entry into the premium electric vehicle (EV) market. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the Polestar 2 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of performance, range, and technology. The Polestar 2 itself is built upon the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, co-developed by Volvo and Geely, and is a direct competitor to vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. This particular variant, with its larger battery pack and dual-motor setup, was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing extended range and quicker acceleration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Polestar |
| Model | 2 |
| Generation | 2 |
| Type (Engine) | 78 kWh (408 Hp) Long Range Dual Motor AWD |
| Start of production | March, 2020 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 193.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 312.4 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 78 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 480 km (298.26 mi) |
| All-electric range | 450 km (279.62 mi) |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 408 Hp |
| System torque | 660 Nm (486.79 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2113 kg (4658.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 487 kg (1073.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Length | 4606 mm (181.34 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2735 mm (107.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1601 mm (63.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1011 mm (39.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Approach angle | 15.1° |
| Departure angle | 22° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 320×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Polestar 2 78 kWh Long Range Dual Motor AWD utilizes a fully electric powertrain. It features two independent electric motors – one driving the front axle and one driving the rear – providing all-wheel drive capability. Each motor produces 204 horsepower and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, resulting in a combined system output of 408 horsepower and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque. The 78 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is positioned low in the vehicle’s floor, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The battery utilizes a liquid thermal management system to maintain optimal operating temperatures. The single-speed automatic transmission is inherent to electric vehicle drivetrains, providing seamless acceleration. The car employs regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration to recharge the battery and extend range.
Driving Characteristics
The dual-motor setup delivers brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds. The instant torque characteristic of electric motors provides responsive acceleration in all driving situations. Compared to the single-motor, standard range Polestar 2, the Long Range Dual Motor AWD offers significantly improved performance. While the single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, it lacks the gear ratios found in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather. The low center of gravity contributes to stable and confident handling. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering a connected feel to the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 78 kWh Long Range Dual Motor AWD trim typically included a high level of standard equipment. This included a large, vertically-oriented touchscreen infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS, a premium audio system (often Harman Kardon), heated front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included Pilot Assist (Polestar’s advanced driver-assistance system), ventilated front seats, and various interior and exterior styling packages. Interior upholstery options typically included textile, leatherette, and full leather. Dashboard configurations were relatively consistent across trims, focusing on a minimalist Scandinavian design aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Polestar 2 features an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a slightly firmer ride than some competitors. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs measuring 345x30mm and the rear discs measuring 320x20mm. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The car’s relatively low weight, thanks to the battery pack’s placement and the use of lightweight materials, contributes to its agile handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Polestar 2 78 kWh Long Range Dual Motor AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, strong performance, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted the relatively limited rear headroom and the firm ride quality. Compared to the standard range Polestar 2, the Long Range Dual Motor AWD offered a significant improvement in range and acceleration, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing these attributes. Against competitors like the Tesla Model 3, the Polestar 2 was often lauded for its interior quality and more traditional automotive feel. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), was competitive with other EVs in its class.
Legacy
The Polestar 2 has established itself as a credible alternative to established EV brands. The 78 kWh Long Range Dual Motor AWD variant remains a desirable option on the used car market, offering a good balance of performance, range, and features. The powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. The battery pack is expected to maintain a significant portion of its capacity for many years with proper care. As the EV market continues to evolve, the Polestar 2 represents an important step in the transition towards sustainable transportation, and this specific variant helped solidify Polestar’s position as a premium EV manufacturer.
