Polestar is preparing a significant overhaul of its flagship 2 model, shifting away from its current crossover-like appearance toward a more defined and sporty saloon profile. The redesigned 2, slated for release in 2027, will be the first full model replacement under the leadership of CEO Michael Lohscheller and design chief Philipp Römers.
A Calculated Evolution
Despite the brand’s success with over 180,000 units sold, Polestar is avoiding a radical redesign. Lohscheller emphasized that the new model will retain key strengths while addressing customer feedback and integrating improvements in battery technology and range. The goal is to secure existing customers while enhancing the vehicle’s overall appeal.
Design Shift: Lower, Longer, and More Dynamic
Philipp Römers, formerly of Audi and Volkswagen, intends to dramatically alter the 2’s stance. The current model’s jacked-up notchback with SUV-style cladding will be toned down in favor of a lower, sleeker profile. Römers confirmed the ride height will be reduced, visually lowering the car and emphasizing horizontal design cues. The new 2 is also expected to be approximately 100mm longer, aligning it with the dimensions of a BMW 3 Series.
Customers have requested more rear space, and the new model will deliver. Polestar is prioritizing a more balanced design that retains the best elements of the current vehicle while correcting past shortcomings.
Performance-Focused Interior and Exterior
The exterior will feature Polestar’s signature ‘dual-blade’ headlamps and a raised section across the nose to improve aerodynamics. Inside, the cockpit will be more driver-oriented, with angled screens and a warmer user interface featuring physical switches. The design ethos is rooted in performance, drawing inspiration from Polestar’s high-performance ‘Beast’ edition from 2022.
Unified Architecture for Efficiency
Polestar is streamlining its vehicle platforms, moving away from the current fragmented approach. The new 2 will be based on a shared architecture within the Geely Group, which includes Volvo, Lotus, and Zeekr. This move is driven by economic pressures and a strategic push for component sharing, as outlined in owner Li Shufu’s Taizhou Declaration.
Software-Defined Future
The new platform will also enable advanced software integration, including cutting-edge stacks and central core computing. Polestar aims to leverage these technologies to enhance safety, autonomous features, and dynamic performance. The platform’s flexibility allows for diverse vehicle configurations, supporting both lower-riding saloons like the 2 and future SUVs like the 7.
Pricing and Market Position
The redesigned Polestar 2 is expected to launch in the summer of 2027, with prices starting just under £50,000 in the UK. The shift to a unified platform and shared components is a strategic move to reduce costs and maximize efficiency, positioning Polestar for sustainable growth in the competitive EV market.
The new Polestar 2 represents a calculated evolution, balancing customer retention with performance enhancements and architectural consolidation. This is a critical step for Polestar’s future, ensuring long-term viability in the increasingly competitive EV landscape.
