Polestar 2 Price (as tested): £56,800*
THE Polestar was narrowly beaten by the Volvo XC40 Recharge in its caravan-weight class, because this category took into consideration specific objective test factors including caravanability, ease of stowing caravanning equipment, driver ergonomics, reversing and acceleration.
It was a tough decision, though, and the judges awarded the Polestar first place in this specific EV category, based on the facts that it has a longer towing range and is more cost-effective than the Volvo. It’s not surprising the two models are relatively closely matched, of course, because Volvo owns the Polestar brand and both these rivals share the same engineering platform.
As an EV all-rounder, the Polestar is also an Auto Express favourite and a car that oozes quality. It makes a great alternative to a Tesla Model 3, too. One of its key selling points is cool Scandinavian style – particularly when it comes to the interior design – but, of course, its 336-mile quoted range is a compelling figure, too. Once again a high kerbweight – 2.2 tonnes here – plays a part in making the Polestar 2 a consummate towcar, but it’s not at the expense of agility and comfort. This EV feels composed and agile with communicative steering, and it’s quick, too. Once you’ve unhitched the trailer or caravan, you can look forward to a 4.5-second 0-60mph sprint and a 127mph top speed.
We also rate the Polestar well for practicality, in part due to the wide-opening hatchback that reveals a decent 405-litre boot. That expands to 1,095 litres with the rear seats folded down.