The Polestar 3 can now go faster and charge faster thanks to a sweeping technology boost.
The brand’s flagship SUV has been upgraded with 800V electrical architecture for its SPA2 platform – that’s double the voltage in the current model and delivers a massive uplift to its capabilities that means it’s “like an entirely new car” according to CEO Michael Lohscheller.
Key changes include significantly faster DC charging with a peak rate of up to 350kW, compared to 250kW currently. That means the 10-80% battery charge benchmark now takes as little as 22 minutes; more than 25% faster than before.
The new architecture also delivers enhanced efficiency, up to 6% according to the WLTP cycle.
It also supports the integration of new lithium-ion batteries from supplier CATL: a 92kWh battery pack for the rear-motor version and a 106kWh battery pack for the dual-motor and Performance variants. Official WLTP range stands at 375, 394 and 368 miles respectively.
The heavily upgraded 3 also gets a new rear motor with a substantial increase in power for all versions. Paired with an asynchronous front motor, the new combo delivers up to 680hp of total power in the Performance variant.
As with dual-motor versions of Polestar 2, the front motor can now automatically disconnect when not needed, improving efficiency and range during everyday driving. The new rear motor also shifts power balance to a greater rear bias than before and the 3 gets updated anti-roll bars and software changes to steering.
There’s also an upgraded core computer with more than eight times greater processing power for faster, more intelligent management of active safety systems, battery performance and sensor data.
In line with Polestar’s commitment to continuous improvement, this hardware upgrade will also be offered as a complimentary retrofit to all existing Polestar 3 customers, with upgrades of customer cars planned to start in the beginning of 2026.
Finally, the 2026 model year introduces a new trim level structure: Polestar 3 Rear motor, Dual motor and Performance – replacing the previous naming convention and making a clearer distinction between versions. Part of the set-up is an optimised battery size for the entry level Rear motor and air suspension remains standard on Dual motor and Performance versions. Seatbelt design will also differentiate the trims.
The line-up also gets a revised pack and options strategy, and design is updated with the new Storm exterior colour option, revised door text graphics and updated upholstering and aluminium deco inside.
Matt Galvin, managing director, Polestar UK, said: “The response to Polestar 3 has been phenomenal here – so much so that we’ve already sold out of our 2025 model year. This strong demand reflects the growing appetite for premium electric performance in the UK, and we’re excited to continue building on that momentum with the latest iteration of our flagship SUV when it arrives early next year.”
Prices for the new Polestar 3 start at £69,990 for the rear-motor model, £77,990 for the dual-motor and £91,990 for the Performance.
