Polestar 1 Plugin Hybrid Review

The Polestar 1 is a car that truly stands out from the crowd, not just because of its striking design, but also due to its exclusivity. With only 1,500 units produced globally, this limited-edition hybrid grand tourer offers a unique blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology. But with a price tag of £139,000, is it really worth the investment? Let’s take a closer look.

It’s a stunning piece of engineering, blending hybrid technology with a sleek grand touring experience.

Design: A Masterpiece on Wheels

From the moment you set eyes on the Polestar 1, it's clear this is no ordinary car. It shares its underpinnings with the Volvo S90, but Polestar has taken things to the next level with extensive use of carbon fiber and added stiffness to the chassis. The result is a sleek, muscular silhouette that’s hard to ignore. The 21-inch wheels and large Akebono six-piston brakes add an extra layer of aggression, while the carbon-trimmed exhausts give it a sporty edge.

It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive art. From the frameless doors to the bold front grille, the Polestar 1 is a feast for the eyes. While it carries design cues reminiscent of its Volvo roots, this car feels like a refined evolution, possibly the most beautiful product to come from the Polestar-Volvo partnership.

Performance: Hybrid Power Meets Precision Engineering

Beneath the Polestar 1’s sculpted exterior lies an impressive powertrain. At its heart is a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that’s both turbocharged and supercharged, delivering plenty of punch. But that’s just the beginning. This petrol engine is paired with electric motors, resulting in a combined output of 609 horsepower.

The hybrid setup allows for a seamless transition between electric and petrol power. In its default hybrid mode, the Polestar 1 optimizes efficiency, and during my experience, it averaged around 45 mpg—impressive for a car of this size and power. And when you switch to full power mode, the car rockets from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.2 seconds. While it doesn’t have the visceral growl of a V8 or the instant torque of a pure EV, it offers a balanced, refined driving experience that feels effortlessly powerful.

That said, it’s not without compromise. The Polestar 1’s acceleration, while quick, doesn’t deliver the same theater you might expect from a sports car in this price range. The combination of petrol and electric power is smooth but lacks the drama and punch of a V8 or the electrifying acceleration of a high-performance EV.

Interior: Premium Materials with a Few Quirks

Step inside the Polestar 1, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both luxurious and minimalist. The materials are top-notch, with premium leather and soft-touch plastics throughout. The frameless doors close with a satisfying thud, and the quality of the craftsmanship is immediately apparent.

However, there are a few drawbacks. For a car in this price range, it’s disappointing to see the lack of wireless charging. The tray with a USB port for your phone is also too small to hold most modern smartphones while plugged in. Additionally, while the infotainment system was cutting-edge when it first launched, it’s beginning to show its age. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, but they’re limited to a small portion of the screen, which feels outdated.

The rear seats are another area of compromise. The Polestar 1 is technically a 2+2, but the back seats are incredibly cramped, suitable only for short trips or small children. And with just 126 litres of boot space, don’t expect to pack much for a road trip—especially not your golf clubs.

Driving Dynamics: Smooth, Comfortable, but Heavy

Despite sitting on large 21-inch wheels and low-profile tires, the Polestar 1 rides surprisingly well. It’s smooth and comfortable, making it a great option for long drives. However, its size and weight—over two meters wide—are hard to ignore. While it handles well for a car of its bulk, it doesn’t have the agility of lighter sports cars.

The car’s left-hand-drive-only configuration can also be a challenge for some markets, particularly in the UK. Navigating narrow streets or parking spaces might take some getting used to, and judging the position of the front corners can be tricky from the driver’s seat.

One area where the Polestar 1 truly shines is torque. With 1,000 Nm of torque at your disposal, the car can surge from 50 to 70 mph in the blink of an eye. This makes overtaking on the highway a breeze, and the overall driving experience feels smooth, composed, and luxurious.

The Price Dilemma: Is It Worth £139,000?

Now, the biggest question—what about the price? At £139,000, the Polestar 1 is up against some serious competition. You’re in Aston Martin and Porsche territory, and at this price point, buyers expect perfection. While the Polestar 1 is undeniably beautiful and offers solid hybrid performance, it lacks the badge prestige of some of its rivals.

In comparison, you can get cars like the BMW 8 Series or a Porsche Cayman GTS for significantly less. These cars may not be as exclusive, but they offer similar or better performance, more interior space, and brand recognition that many buyers value.

However, exclusivity is where the Polestar 1 excels. With only 1,500 units ever made, it’s a rare gem, and that scarcity could make it a collector’s item in the future. If you’re looking for a unique vehicle that not many others will own, the Polestar 1 is a compelling choice.

Final Thoughts: A Car for Collectors, Not the Masses

In the end, the Polestar 1 is a car for those who appreciate rarity, craftsmanship, and design. It’s a stunning piece of engineering, blending hybrid technology with a sleek grand touring experience. But for most buyers, the steep price and compromises—such as limited space and dated technology—make it a tough sell against more established rivals.

Pros:

- Impeccable build quality

- Stunning design

- Powerful hybrid performance

- Extreme rarity and exclusivity

Cons:

- High price tag

- Limited rear seat and boot space

- Dated infotainment system

- Left-hand drive only

If you’re someone who values owning something unique and aren’t deterred by the price tag, the Polestar 1 could be a future classic. For everyone else, there are faster, roomier, and more prestigious options available at a lower cost. But one thing’s for sure—if you own a Polestar 1, you’re part of an elite group of automotive enthusiasts, and that’s something money can’t always buy.

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