Volvo Polestar 1

Overview: Is the Volvo Polestar 1 a Good Performance Hybrid?

The Volvo Polestar 1, offered for the 2020 and 2021 model years in the U.S., represents a unique chapter in automotive history as Volvo's high-performance sub-brand transitioned to independence. This limited-production grand tourer combines the elegance of a luxury coupe with cutting-edge hybrid technology, bridging the gap between Volvo's past and Polestar's electric future. As a halo car for both brands, the Polestar 1 showcases what's possible when Scandinavian design meets advanced powertrain engineering.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Volvo Polestar 1 cars for sale.

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Related: Which Years Of Used Volvo Polestar 1s Are Most Reliable?

Key Features

The Volvo Polestar 1 offers:

• Two-door, grand tourer body style
• 2+2 seating configuration
• Plug-in hybrid powertrain with 619 combined horsepower
• Carbon fiber body panels
• All-wheel drive with torque vectoring
• 34 kWh battery for up to 52 miles of electric-only range
• Öhlins adjustable suspension
• Akebono performance brakes
• Panoramic glass roof
• Hand-crafted interior with premium materials
• Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system

Trims

The Polestar 1 was offered as a limited-production model in a single, fully loaded configuration. However, buyers could personalize their vehicle by choosing from exterior colors and wheel designs.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Polestar 1 interior is steeped in luxury with bespoke touches. The cabin features a blend of premium leather, carbon fiber accents, and satin-finished metal trim. The seats, sculpted for long-distance comfort, offer heating, cooling, and massage functions.

A 9-inch touchscreen running Volvo's Sensus infotainment system sits at the dashboard's center. This display offers access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable information displays, including hybrid-specific data.

Despite its grand tourer status, the Polestar 1's cargo capacity is limited by its battery placement. The trunk offers a modest 4.3 cubic feet of space, supplemented by two hidden compartments under the floor for storing charging cables.

Review: Which Years Of Used Polestar 2s Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The Volvo Polestar 1's powertrain is a technological tour de force. It combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels with two electric motors powering the rear wheels. This complex system delivers 619 horsepower and an impressive 738 lb-ft of torque.

The result is an exhilarating performance, with the Polestar 1 capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 155 mph. The all-wheel-drive system, enhanced by torque vectoring on the rear axle, provides exceptional traction and handling dynamics.

Its substantial electric-only range sets the Polestar 1 apart from many performance hybrids. A 34 kWh battery can travel up to 52 miles on electricity alone, making it practical for daily commutes without using a gas engine.

The Öhlins adjustable suspension allows drivers to fine-tune the ride quality, balancing comfort and performance. While the car's curb weight of over 5,100 pounds is substantial, the carbon fiber body and advanced chassis tuning help mitigate its mass in corners.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) didn’t evaluate the Volvo Polestar 1.

Reviews

Due to the Polestar 1’s limited production, consumer feedback about this vehicle is not available to assess.

Learn More: Polestar 2 Ground Clearance: What To Know

Volvo Polestar 1 FAQs

How much does Volvo Polestar 1 cost?

When new, the Volvo Polestar 1 had a starting price of $155,000. According to CoPilot marketplace information, a used Polestar 1 costs $88,000 to $116,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Does Volvo make Polestar 1?

Volvo's performance division developed the Polestar 1 before Polestar became a separate brand focusing on EV models. It shares some components with Volvo vehicles but is considered a Polestar model. Volvo continues selling the S90 and other crossovers, wagons, and sedans.

Is Volvo Polestar 1 still for sale?

Production of the Polestar 1 ended in 2021. New models are no longer available, but pre-owned examples may be found on the used car market.

How many Volvo Polestar 1s are there in the world?

Polestar limited production to 1,500 units over three years (for two model years), making the Polestar 1 a rare and potentially collectible vehicle.

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