Polestar 2 gets a large-scale update for 2023

Polestar has worked hard to keep its model number 2 relevant, switching it to rear-wheel drive from FWD and replacing the electric motors along with other drivetrain parts.

The entry-level spec now utilizes a single motor on the rear axle capable of 272 PS (268 hp / 200 kW) and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque. It is a massive upgrade over the previously available FWD motor churning out just 231 PS (228 hp / 170 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft). The sprint time goes down from 7.4 to 6.4 seconds. The battery size stays at 69 kWh, but optimizations have added 44 km (27 miles) of extra range for a total of 518 km (322 miles).

The Long Range Single Motor spec now commands 299 PS (295 hp / 220 kW) and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque. It needs 6.2 seconds for the launch. The base AWD spec enjoys a bump to 421 PS (415 hp / 310 kW) and 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque and sprints 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (used to be 4.7 seconds).

Finally, the topmost spec stays at 476 PS (469 hp / 350 kW), but gets a torque increase to 740 Nm (546 lb-ft). The sprint time goes down 0.2 seconds to 4.2 seconds.

On the outside, the 2023 Polestar 2 rocks new wheels and a solid front panel replacing the faux grille. Pre-ordering is already available.