I don’t think I’ve driven a car as special or as unique as the Polestar 1. It’s not because of its rarity with only 1,500 units sold. Oh no. This car helped define the ethos of the Polestar brand and informed how every car in the lineup must drive. In other words, this car was a revelation. A luxury grand touring coupe that characterized Polestar performance wrapped in timeless Scandinavian design that proudly flaunts its Volvo heritage. Let’s take a look back and revisit the thrill.
Polestar 1: Complex Dynamism
The Polestar 1 was the only plug-in hybrid ever made by the brand. It coupled a super and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, three electric motors, an eight-speed automatic, and a 34-kWh battery. The result? 619 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque that gives this 2.5-ton coupe efforless acceleration. Smooth yet relentless, you always had power and it helps that the transmission responds quickly, too. As a result, the 1 hid its weight well, resulting in a car that feels every bit a grand tourer..
Polestar complemented all of this electrified power with a masterfully tuned chassis. Firm yet supremely comfortable, the 1 blended exceptional handling, body control, and comfort. The standard Ohlins dampers gave plenty of adjustability. However, they required manual adjustment, so set them to your preferred setup and forget about them. The 1 steered well, too, offering good accuracy and responsiveness. Although it can feel a little disconnected, it’s far from a deal breaker. The e-AWD setup also helped the Polestar 1 up the fun factor, giving it unflappable grip when combined with its Pirelli P Zero summer tires. Additionally, it’s playful, rotating willingly thanks to the two electric motors overdriving the rear wheels.
When its time to stop, the massive Akebono brakes offers confident performance, especially combined with strong regenerative braking and natural pedal feel. Moreover, the 1 is surprisingly efficient with an EPA rating of 22/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined. Plus, it has a 52-mile driving range rating in EV mode, too, adding to its desirability.
Scandinavian Style Inside and Out
Timeless and modern, the Polestar 1 flaunts its minimalist Scandinavian style. Essentially a production version of the Volvo Concept Coupe, it also embraces its Volvo heritage. Featuring Thor’s hammer LED headlights and a Polestar-specific grille, this coupe commands attention with its smooth, flowing lines.
Step inside and you’ll find what’s essentially an identical interior to the S90 sedan. However, since the 1 is a coupe, you get tight jump seats in the back best used as extra cargo space to complement the small trunk. Otherwise, the rest of the cabin screams Volvo, which isn’t a bad thing. Everything you touch felt expensive, while the bolstered front sport seats offered the same renowned comfort as its kin. Details like genuine carbon fiber trim, metal speaker grilles, and an Orrefors crystal gear shifter add a special touch to an already unique vehicle. Plus, the cabin stays incredible hushed even at freeway speeds.
Tech-wise, the Polestar 1 borrowed heavily from Volvo, including the nine-inch touchscreen housing the Sensus interface. While not the newest, the system works fine, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also included a 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system that was simply epic for all types of music. On the other hand, the 1 features a full driver assistance suite that includes Pilot Assist. The systems work well, just like in other Volvo and Polestar products, making them great for long-distance driving.
The Definitive Scandivian GT
Without a shadow of doubt, the Polestar 1 made a statement. Performance meets Scandinavian design. This grand tourer helped establish Polestar’s DNA and it was evident with the Polestar 2 Performance Pack I owned for three years and the Polestar 3 I recently had the chance to drive. Mind you, the latter didn’t even have the Performance Pack and the 1’s influence shines through.
More than three years after its discontinuation, the Polestar 1 remains the brand’s halo. Although the fully-electric models that succeeded it are quicker, sharper, and more refined, the 1 set the stage for a performance-oriented automaker. Most importantly, it carves its own path while respecting its Volvo heritage. This car is the definition of a halo. A brand shaper that set the stage for what’s next.
