Polestar Arctic Circle Editions Puts Rally-Inspired EVs To The Test
by AutoExpert | 31 January, 2025
Polestar's Arctic Circle edition takes its inspiration from rallying, and this time, the Swedish brand has added some serious off-road tweaks to the Polestar 3 and 4, following the success of the Polestar 2 Arctic Circle one-off. This special lineup of rally-inspired EVs boasts upgraded suspensions, studded tires, and a range of cool accessories, all designed to take the brand's electric SUVs to a whole new level.
These one-offs were created at Polestar’s R&D facilities in Sweden under the guidance of Joakim Rydholm, former rally driver and current Head of Driving Dynamics at Polestar.
Rydholm described the process of giving their electric SUVs the Arctic Circle treatment as both enjoyable and challenging, as his team collaborated closely with tech partners to create "bespoke engineering solutions" that enhanced the driving experience.
Each of the three models gets a beefed-up suspension with 3-way adjustable Öhlins dampers and a front strut brace for improved performance. Ground clearance has been raised by 20-40 mm (0.8-1.6 inches) depending on the vehicle. The cars roll on 19- and 20-inch OZ Racing alloy wheels finished in white, shod with studded Pirelli tires for that rally-ready feel.
Visually, the cars are painted in a striking white and yellow livery, with Stedi Quad Pro LEDs at the front, Swedish gold hooks, and mud flaps. Roof rails from Thule, custom baskets, and ski mounts add to the rugged charm, with the Polestar 3 also sporting an LED bar.
Recaro bucket seats throughout the interior continue the rally vibe. The Polestar 4 elevates the experience with a hydraulic handbrake inspired by the drift scene. These models are based on the Long Range Dual Motor trims, each fitted with the optional Performance Pack. The Polestar 2’s output has been boosted to 470 hp (350 kW), while the Polestar 3 and 4 stick to their standard outputs of 510 hp (380 kW) and 537 hp (400 kW), respectively.
These electric SUVs will make their public debut at the 2025 FAT Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria, on February 1st, where Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller expressed excitement about showcasing the brand's "unique performance DNA" rooted in motorsport and Scandinavian design. While none of these Polestar Arctic Circle editions are going into production, they may pave the way for future special editions.
