The Polestar 3 was originally teased back in mid-June, but there hasn’t been any news about the electric SUV since then. Thankfully, Car and Driver was able to obtain some preliminary technical specifications after having a chat with Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. While the next-generation Volvo XC90 will offer an EV option likely combined with three rows, the Polestar 3 will be available strictly with two rows of seats.
Granted, that’s not all too surprising seeing as how the vehicle hiding under the cover has a sloping roofline that would make it quite difficult to cram in more than four/five seats in the cabin. Ingenlath explained he has nothing against three-row vehicles, but argues offering a seven-seat option would have made some people wonder how the Polestar 3 differs from the mechanically related XC90.
He went on to mention sticking to two rows allows Polestar to offer more room between the front and rear seats to enable a “luxurious feeling” while improving aerodynamics thanks to the swoopy roofline. Consequently, expect copious amounts of rear legroom and a low drag coefficient for an SUV.
While the Polestar 3 and next-gen Volvo XC90 EV will share most of the bits and pieces, aside from being built at the same South Carolina plant in the US, there will be one key difference between the two. Ingenlath told C&D the Polestar 3 will be fitted with a powertrain that will give it “a top power position that is unique to Polestar.”
Much like the zero-emissions XC90, the new Polestar 3 will come with a choice of single- and dual-motor versions, with the latter offering all-wheel drive. Ingenlath argues variety is the spice of life as offering multiple powertrain options will cater to various customer demands all over the world, with some regions preferring AWD while others will go for the single-motor setup.
The official reveal is expected to take place in the coming months, but the Polestar 3 won’t arrive in the United States until at some point next year when it will be advertised as a 2023MY product.
Source: Car and Driver
