Polestar 5 Review: Range, Charging Time & Top Speed Explained

Polestar 5 Review: Range, Charging Time & Top Speed Explained

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Written by Skye

February 17, 2026

The evolution of the electric vehicle market has reached a pivotal moment with the introduction of the Polestar 5. Born from the striking Precept concept, this luxury four-door Grand Tourer represents a bold leap forward for the Swedish-Chinese brand. It isn’t just another electric sedan; it is a statement of intent, built on a bespoke bonded aluminum architecture that promises the structural rigidity of a supercar. Designed to go head-to-head with established titans like the Porsche Taycan and Lucid Air, the Polestar 5 combines minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics with a high-performance powertrain that pushes the boundaries of what enthusiasts expect from sustainable mobility.

Performance and Top Speed Dynamics

When it comes to raw power, the Polestar 5 is nothing short of a rocket. The flagship Performance model features a sophisticated dual-motor setup that delivers a combined 884 horsepower (650 kW) and a massive 1,015 Nm of torque. During high-speed testing, this translates into a blistering 0-100 km/h sprint of just 3.2 seconds. Even the standard Dual Motor variant remains incredibly potent, offering 748 horsepower and reaching highway speeds in 3.9 seconds. For those wondering about the ceiling of this electric beast, both versions are electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). This speed is managed by an in-house developed rear motor that provides the lion’s share of the thrust, ensuring that the car feels stable and composed even as it approaches its limit.

Battery Capacity and Range Efficiency

At the heart of the Polestar 5 lies a massive 112 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (with approximately 106 kWh of usable capacity). Range anxiety is largely mitigated by the vehicle’s impressive efficiency figures. Under the international WLTP testing standard, the standard Dual Motor version targets a range of up to 670 kilometers (416 miles), while the more power-hungry Performance model is rated at 565 kilometers (351 miles). Real-world driving will naturally vary based on weather and speed; however, early tests suggest that even on the highway, drivers can expect a solid 450–500 km of travel on a single charge. This balance of high-capacity storage and optimized aerodynamics makes it a true trans-continental tourer.

Feature Polestar 5 Dual Motor Polestar 5 Performance
Max Power 550 kW (748 hp) 650 kW (884 hp)
Peak Torque 812 Nm 1,015 Nm
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) 3.9 Seconds 3.2 Seconds
Top Speed 250 km/h (155 mph) 250 km/h (155 mph)
WLTP Range 670 km (416 miles) 565 km (351 miles)
Battery Capacity 112 kWh 112 kWh
DC Charging Peak 350 kW 350 kW

Ultra-Fast Charging Capabilities

One of the most significant technological upgrades in the Polestar 5 is its 800-volt electrical architecture. This system is designed to handle extreme power inputs, allowing for ultra-fast DC charging at rates of up to 350 kW. If you find a compatible high-speed charger, the car can replenish its battery from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes. This is a game-changer for long-distance road trips, as it reduces charging stops to the length of a quick coffee break. For those charging at home, the onboard 11 kW AC charger will take roughly 11 hours to go from empty to a full 100%, making it perfectly suited for overnight replenishment.

Engineering and Bespoke Architecture

The Polestar 5 isn’t just fast in a straight line; it is engineered to handle corners with precision. It utilizes the Polestar Performance Architecture (PPA), which is a lightweight, bonded aluminum chassis developed by an R&D team in the UK. This platform provides exceptional torsional rigidity, which enhances both safety and handling. To keep the car grounded, Polestar has equipped the Performance model with MagneRide adaptive dampers that can adjust their firmness up to 1,000 times per second. This ensures a “private jet for the road” experience, where the car remains comfortable over rough surfaces but tightens up instantly when the driver demands more engagement.

Interior Luxury and Sustainable Design

Stepping inside the Polestar 5 reveals a cabin that defines modern luxury through sustainability rather than excess. The interior is largely “vegan,” utilizing recycled PET plastics, reclaimed fishing nets, and natural flax-based composites for the trim panels. A massive 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen serves as the command center, running a refined version of Google’s built-in operating system. Interestingly, the car lacks a traditional rear window to improve aerodynamics and structural strength; instead, a roof-mounted camera provides a high-definition feed to a digital rear-view mirror. While this takes some adjustment, it offers a wider field of view than a conventional mirror ever could.

A New Benchmark for Electric GTs

As Polestar moves away from its Volvo-derived roots, the Polestar 5 stands as its most authentic creation yet. It successfully bridges the gap between a high-performance sports car and a luxury long-distance cruiser. With its combination of rapid 800V charging, supercar-level acceleration, and a bespoke aluminum frame, it offers a distinct alternative to the current market leaders. While the price point reflects its flagship status, the sheer depth of engineering and the commitment to sustainable materials make it one of the most compelling electric vehicles of 2026. For the driver who wants cutting-edge tech without sacrificing the “soul” of a driver-centric machine, the Polestar 5 is a formidable contender.

FAQs

Q1 How fast can the Polestar 5 charge at a public station?

Using a 350 kW DC fast charger, the Polestar 5 can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 22 minutes thanks to its 800V architecture.

Q2 Does the Polestar 5 have a rear window?

No, the Polestar 5 does not have a traditional glass rear window. It uses a rear-facing camera system that displays a live feed on a digital mirror inside the cabin to maximize aerodynamics.

Q3 What is the maximum driving range on a full charge?

The standard Dual Motor version offers a WLTP-estimated range of up to 670 km (416 miles), while the Performance variant offers roughly 565 km (351 miles).

Disclaimer

The content is intended for informational purposes only. you can check the officially sources our aim is to provide accurate information to all users.

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