Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor

Overview

The 2022 Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor, primarily an EU offering with its 61 kWh battery, showed Polestar's ambition to broaden its appeal. As an entry-level, front-wheel-drive liftback, it aimed to deliver that cool Scandinavian design and Google-powered tech at a more accessible point. Key highlights were its sustainable interior focus and minimalist chic. Since this specific trim wasn't officially sold in the US, official US pricing isn't available, but it represented a more value-oriented entry into the Polestar 2 family elsewhere, balancing features with a slightly more modest range.

What's New for 2022?

For the 2022 model year, the big global news was the arrival of single-motor Polestar 2s, including this Standard Range front-wheel-drive variant for markets like Europe. While the US received a single-motor version with a larger battery, this 61kWh (usable) model showcased the new entry point. Continuous over-the-air software updates kept the Android Automotive OS fresh. Polestar also typically introduced subtle enhancements like new wheel options or paint colors across the range, keeping the 2 looking sharp and modern for the year.

Design & Exterior

The 2022 Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor flaunts that head-turning, minimalist Scandinavian design. It's a sleek liftback with a commanding presence, measuring 181.3 inches long, 73.2 inches wide (no mirrors), and 58.3 inches tall. Iconic 'Thor's Hammer' LED running lights and frameless side mirrors enhance its premium, modern aesthetic. This version likely came with 19-inch alloy wheels designed for aerodynamic efficiency, complementing its clean lines and purposeful stance without skimping on style. It’s a proper looker!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor offers a sophisticated, vegan-friendly cabin that’s big on tech and minimalist cool. Dominating the dash are an 11.2-inch tablet-style center screen with Google's Android Automotive OS (hello, Google Maps!) and a 12.3-inch digital driver display. Apple CarPlay is also on board. There's seating for five, and cargo space is decent: 14.3 ft³ in the trunk, expanding to 38.7 ft³ with seats down, plus a nifty 1.2 ft³ frunk for your charge cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

Under the skin, this Polestar 2 features a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor powering the front wheels, dishing out 165 kW (around 221 hp) and 243 lb-ft of torque. It's zippy enough for everyday antics, hitting 0-60 mph in about 7.1 seconds, with a top speed of 99 mph. While not a rocket ship like its dual-motor siblings, it offers a composed and comfortable ride with predictable FWD handling. Adjustable regenerative braking, including a smooth one-pedal drive mode, makes city driving a breeze and helps maximize range.

Range, Battery & Charging

This Polestar 2 packs a 61 kWh (usable) battery, good for a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 234 miles. Efficiency is rated at a solid 3.84 mi/kWh. For charging, the standard 11 kW AC on-board charger will top it up overnight (around 6-7 hours) using a US-standard CCS Type 1 port. When you’re out and about, it can gulp down DC fast charging at up to 136 kW, getting you significant range in a hurry thanks to its 400V architecture. Pretty handy for those longer jaunts!

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Polestar doesn't skimp on safety, and the Polestar 2 boasts a 5-star NHTSA rating. Standard driver aids on this model would typically include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. For more advanced features like Pilot Assist (adaptive cruise control with lane centering), blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert with auto-brake, these were usually bundled into optional packages. So, while the basics are covered, the full tech suite might cost extra.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Owners of a 2022 Polestar 2 like this one would typically benefit from a 4-year/50,000-mile basic vehicle warranty in the US. The crucial battery and electric drive unit are usually covered for a more generous 8 years or 100,000 miles, with a guarantee against excessive degradation. Polestar often included a few years of complimentary scheduled maintenance too, adding peace of mind. As with many tech-heavy cars, keeping software updated is key for a smooth ownership experience with these advanced EVs.