Thinking about switching to an electric vehicle in Australia? The Polestar 2 is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about EVs on our roads—and for good reason. With its sleek Scandinavian design, powerful performance, and smart tech features, the Polestar 2 stands out in a growing field of electric competitors. But what’s it really like to own and live with this car day in and day out in Australia?
In this article, we dive into the long-term ownership experience of the Polestar 2 in Australia. From real-world range to service costs, charging infrastructure, and how it handles in Aussie conditions, we break it all down for EV enthusiasts, current owners, and anyone considering their first electric car.
Table of Contents
- Performance and Driving Experience
- Battery Life and Real-World Range
- Charging the Polestar 2 in Australia
- Interior Comfort and Tech Features
- Ownership Costs and Maintenance
- Resale Value and Market Demand
- Polestar 2 vs Other EVs in Australia
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Performance and Driving Experience
Everyday Driving Dynamics
The Polestar 2 delivers instant torque and smooth acceleration, offering a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. Even the Single Motor variant boasts impressive 0–100 km/h times of around 7.4 seconds, while the Dual Motor version cuts that down to a brisk 4.5 seconds.
Driving highlights in Australian conditions:
- Feels planted and confident on twisty rural roads
- Regenerative braking is smooth and adjustable
- Strong highway performance with excellent lane-keeping assist
Ride Quality and Suspension
While performance is a strong point, some Australian owners note the ride can feel firm over rougher roads—especially in regional areas. However, the Performance Pack offers Öhlins dampers that provide some adjustability for those who want a sportier or more refined feel.
Battery Life and Real-World Range
Official vs Real-World Range
The official WLTP range of the Polestar 2 varies:
- Standard Range Single Motor: ~470 km
- Long Range Single Motor: ~540 km
- Long Range Dual Motor: ~480 km
However, in real-world Australian conditions, with mixed driving and air conditioning use, many owners report:
- City driving: 420–480 km
- Highway driving: 350–400 km
Seasonal Variability
Australian summers can affect battery efficiency, especially in hotter regions like WA or QLD. However, the Polestar 2’s thermal management system helps minimise extreme degradation.
Charging the Polestar 2 in Australia
Home Charging Options
Installing a wallbox charger at home is the most convenient way to keep your Polestar topped up. Using a 7kW home charger:
- Full charge in ~8 hours (overnight)
- Cost per charge (off-peak rates): ~$10–12
Public Charging Network
Australia’s public charging infrastructure is expanding fast, especially along major highways. Fast-charging is supported at up to 155 kW DC:
- 10–80% charge in ~35 minutes
- Compatible with Chargefox, Evie Networks, and Tesla Superchargers (for CCS2)
Charging accessibility by state:
| State | Fast Chargers (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 200+ | Strong urban and regional coverage |
| VIC | 180+ | Good highway coverage |
| QLD | 150+ | Electric Super Highway a key asset |
| WA | 100+ | Expanding fast in metro areas |
Interior Comfort and Tech Features
Scandinavian Minimalism
Inside, the Polestar 2 combines premium materials with a clean, clutter-free layout. The vegan upholstery is a nice touch for sustainability-minded drivers.
Android Automotive OS
This is one of the first EVs to feature Google’s Android Automotive OS built in, offering:
- Google Maps with EV range integration
- Google Assistant voice commands
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
Owner-favourite tech features:
- Built-in Spotify, Google Maps and YouTube Music
- 360-degree camera and pilot assist
- Large 11.15-inch touchscreen interface
Ownership Costs and Maintenance
Running Costs
Polestar 2 ownership in Australia is surprisingly affordable:
- Electricity vs petrol: ~$2–$3 per 100 km
- Servicing: Minor checks every 24 months or 30,000 km
- Insurance: $1,200–$1,800 annually depending on location
Warranty and Roadside Support
Polestar offers:
- 5-year unlimited km warranty
- 8-year battery warranty (or 160,000 km)
- Free servicing for the first 5 years
- Roadside assistance included
Resale Value and Market Demand
Depreciation Trends
While EVs typically depreciate faster than ICE cars, the Polestar 2 has held its value reasonably well in Australia due to limited supply and increasing demand. Some early owners report:
- ~15–20% depreciation after 2 years
- High interest in used models on car sales platforms
EV Incentives and Rebates
Polestar 2 owners in several states have benefited from:
- NSW and VIC stamp duty exemptions or rebates
- QLD registration discounts
- Federal FBT exemption for employer-provided vehicles
Polestar 2 vs Other EVs in Australia
Comparisons with Top Rivals
| Feature | Polestar 2 | Tesla Model 3 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ~$67,000 | ~$61,900 | ~$72,000 |
| Real-World Range | 420–480 km | 400–500 km | 380–450 km |
| Tech System | Android OS | Tesla UI | Hyundai UI |
| Fit & Finish | Premium | Minimalist | Modern |
| Performance | Strong | Fastest | Smooth |
Verdict
The Polestar 2 offers a stylish, well-rounded EV experience with premium appeal. While it may not beat the Tesla Model 3 on raw speed or app features, it holds its own in comfort, design, and build quality.
FAQs
Is the Polestar 2 eligible for Australian EV rebates?
Yes, in many states it qualifies for EV rebates, stamp duty exemptions, or registration discounts.
How reliable is the Polestar 2 long-term?
So far, reliability has been strong, with few reports of major issues. OTA updates also fix bugs regularly.
Can I use Tesla Superchargers with the Polestar 2?
Yes, at compatible CCS2 Tesla Superchargers across Australia.
What’s the cost of replacing the battery?
While rare, battery replacement costs could exceed $20,000, but the 8-year warranty offers peace of mind.
Is it worth getting the Performance Pack?
If you enjoy spirited driving and want upgraded suspension and brakes, it’s a worthy upgrade.
Conclusion
Living with a Polestar 2 in Australia offers a blend of style, tech, performance, and sustainability that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re commuting in the city, road-tripping up the coast, or simply enjoying a quiet, zero-emission drive, this EV proves to be more than just a trend—it’s a long-term lifestyle shift. If you’re on the fence about your next EV, the Polestar 2 is definitely worth a test drive.
Ready to explore the Polestar 2 or compare it with other EV options? Join the growing community of Aussie EV drivers and discover what makes this electric car a standout.