MSRP: $67,500
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Overview
The 2026 Polestar 3 electric compact luxury SUV leans more toward style and driver engagement than outright family-hauling practicality. It shares plenty of engineering DNA with the Volvo EX90, but Polestar gives it a sharper personality, a lower, sleeker shape, and a more athletic setup on the road. The lineup includes Long Range Single Motor, Long Range Dual Motor, and Long Range Dual Motor with Performance pack models.
For 2026, the lineup grows more powerful across the board. The Single Motor now makes 329 horsepower, the Long Range Dual Motor makes 536 horsepower, and the Performance pack version raises that to 671 horsepower. All three use a 111-kWh battery, with rear-wheel drive on the Single Motor and all-wheel drive on the dual-motor versions.
What’s New for 2026?
The biggest change to the 2026 3 is a move to an 800-volt electrical architecture, which is intended to support charging speeds of up to 350 kW. Power output increases for all powertrains; RWD trims increase from 295 to 329 hp, AWD trims go from 489 hp to 536 hp, and the Performance trim sees a big boost from 517 hp to 671 hp.
Exterior
The Polestar 3 keeps things clean and simple, but there’s a lot going on beneath the surface. The proportions are long and low for a compact SUV, helped by a 117.5-inch wheelbase and 192.9-inch length that almost push it into the midsize class. It sits lower than many rivals, which gives it a more planted stance on the road.
Aerodynamic detailing plays a big role in the design. The front aero wing helps manage airflow over the hood, while the rear aero wing improves stability at speed. Flush door handles and smooth surfacing reduce drag, and the lighting signature is sharp without being overstyled.
Wheel options range from 20-inch aero-focused designs to 22-inch performance wheels. The Performance pack adds Swedish gold brake calipers and unique visual touches that give it a slightly more aggressive edge.
Polestar
Polestar
Polestar
Interior
Inside, the Polestar 3 sticks to a minimalist layout with a strong focus on materials and space. The flat floor opens up the cabin, and the overall design feels clean without looking empty. Standard features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone climate control.
A 14.5-inch touchscreen runs the core functions, paired with a digital instrument display. Wireless smartphone integration, built-in navigation, and multiple USB-C ports come standard. Higher trims and packages add features like a premium 25-speaker audio system, soft-close doors, and a head-up display.
Polestar
Polestar
Polestar
Price Range and Best Value Trim
| Model | Price |
| Long Range Single Motor | ~$67,600 |
| Long Range Dual Motor | ~$73,600 |
| Long Range Dual Motor with Performance Pack | ~$79,600 |
The 2026 Polestar 3’s price range spans three trims, but the Long Range Dual Motor is the best value because it lands in the sweet spot. For $5,900 more than the Single Motor, it adds all-wheel drive, a second motor, 207 more horsepower, and a much quicker 0-60 mph time of around 4.2 seconds. It also brings the more sophisticated dynamic chassis and active air suspension setup, while still keeping the price comfortably below the Performance pack model.
Key Specs
Powertrain
| Model | Power | Torque | Drivetrain | 0-60 MPH |
| Single Motor | 329 hp | 354 lb-ft | RWD | ~6.7 sec |
| Dual Motor | 536 hp | 546 lb-ft | AWD | ~4.2 sec |
| Dual Motor with Performance Pack | 671 hp | 642 lb-ft | AWD | ~3.1 sec |
Fuel Economy and Range
| Configuration | City | Highway | Combined | Range |
| Single Motor (21” wheels) | 105 MPGe | 89 MPGe | 97 MPGe | 291 mi |
| Single Motor (20” wheels) | 102 MPGe | 88 MPGe | 95 MPGe | 286 mi |
| Dual Motor (21” wheels) | 95 MPGe | 84 MPGe | 90 MPGe | 312 mi |
| Dual Motor (22” wheels) | 85 MPGe | 76 MPGe | 81 MPGe | 281 mi |
| Dual Motor Performance Pack | 85 MPGe | 76 MPGe | 81 MPGe | 281 mi |
Dimensions
| Measurement | Value |
| Length | 192.9 in |
| Width | 77.4 in |
| Height | 63.6 in Single Motor / 63.5 in Dual Motor |
| Wheelbase | 117.5 in |
| Cargo Capacity (rear / seats folded / frunk) | 17.1 / 49.8 / 1 cu-ft |
| Ground Clearance | 7.95-8.1 in |
Warranty
| Coverage | Term |
| Limited Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | N/A |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sharp design with real road presence
- Strong dual-motor performance
- Standard Brembo brakes
- Dual Motor trim offers a strong value balance
Cons:
- Rear visibility is not great
- Cargo space trails some rivals
- Touch-heavy controls may annoy some drivers
- Performance pack takes a noticeable range hit
- No third row despite its size
Verdict
The 2026 Polestar 3 feels more focused than most electric SUVs in this class. It prioritizes driving engagement and design over maximum practicality, which gives it a distinct identity. The Single Motor version makes it more accessible, but the Dual Motor is where the SUV really comes together, offering blistering performance with its power upgrade that even beats last year’s Performance.
It’s not the most spacious or family-oriented option, but that’s not the point. This is a driver-focused luxury EV with a strong design identity and just enough performance to back it up. If you want something that stands apart from the usual German choices, this one makes a convincing case.
Polestar
Competitors:
- BMW iX3
- Porsche Macan Electric
- Cadillac Optiq
- Mercedes-Benz GLC EV
- Audi Q6/SQ6 e-tron
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor