2026 Polestar 3

• 2026 Polestar 3 gains 800-volt architecture with DC charging up to 350 kW

• Power outputs now reach 500 kW, with improved rear-bias handling and range

• New NVIDIA Orin computer boosts processing power more than eightfold

Polestar has never been shy about pitching its flagship SUV as more than just a design exercise. The 2026 model year Polestar 3 shows that commitment by rolling out a sweeping set of upgrades — not cosmetic tweaks, but core changes to the vehicle’s hardware. With faster charging, new motor technology, and a leap in computing capability, the brand describes it as “like an entirely new car.”

Charging goes 800-volt

Central to the upgrade is the move to an 800-volt electrical architecture, a first for the SPA2 platform. The practical benefit is speed: peak DC charging now tops out at 350 kW, trimming the 10–80 percent window to as little as 22 minutes — more than a quarter quicker than before. Beyond convenience, efficiency also improves, with WLTP figures suggesting gains of up to six percent.

Polestar pairs the system with new CATL lithium-ion battery packs: 92 kWh for the single-motor Rear version, and 106 kWh for Dual motor and Performance models. Together, they extend the SUV’s long-distance credentials while easing charging downtime on the road.

More muscle in the drivetrain

Every variant benefits from a new in-house developed permanent-magnet synchronous rear motor, coupled with an asynchronous front motor. In the Performance edition, the system delivers up to 500 kW (680 hp) and 870 Nm, enough to launch the SUV from 0–100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. The Dual motor clocks 400 kW, while the Rear motor holds steady at 245 kW.

The front motor now disengages automatically when not needed, improving everyday efficiency. With a stronger rear bias, revised anti-roll bars, and refinements in steering software, the SUV takes on a more engaging character, designed to satisfy drivers who expect more feedback from a heavy EV.

Smarter at its core

Polestar also redefines the Polestar 3 as a software-defined vehicle, swapping its NVIDIA Xavier processor for the far more capable Orin unit. Processing power leaps from 30 TOPS to 254 TOPS, enabling faster safety system responses, more refined battery management, and smoother sensor integration.

In a customer-friendly move, existing Polestar 3 owners won’t be left behind. The brand says the new computing unit will be offered as a complimentary retrofit from early 2026 at authorized service points

Trim levels clarified

To simplify the range, Polestar reorganizes its lineup into three clear variants: Rear motor, Dual motor, and Performance. Battery sizes are optimized per model, and active air suspension becomes standard only on the Performance, optional on the Dual motor. Each version also gains subtle design identifiers, such as seatbelt accents: solid black for Rear, black with a Swedish gold stripe for Dual, and full Swedish gold for Performance.

Option packs have been reshuffled, too. The Climate pack covers heated rear seats, steering wheel, and even wiper blades. A new Prime pack bundles Pilot, Plus, and Climate features with rear privacy glass. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system, with headrest speakers and road noise cancellation, is available standalone or within the Plus pack.

Updated design cues

Outside, the 2026 Polestar 3 gains a new paint option, “Storm,” a dark grey metallic replacing “Thunder.” Door graphics now include both model variant and larger Polestar 3 lettering. Inside, the base upholstery steps up to Bio-attributed MicroTech in Charcoal, paired with repurposed aluminium trim that was previously optional.

Technical Specifications

Rear Motor

• Power: 245 kW (333 hp)
• Torque: 480 Nm
• 0–100 km/h: 6.5 s
• Top speed: 210 km/h
• Range (WLTP): up to 604 km
• Battery: 92 kWh, 800 V lithium-ion
• DC charging: up to 310 kW

Dual Motor

• Power: 400 kW (544 hp)
• Torque: 740 Nm
• 0–100 km/h: 4.7 s
• Top speed: 230 km/h
• Range (WLTP): up to 635 km
• Battery: 106 kWh, 800 V lithium-ion
• DC charging: up to 350 kW

Performance

• Power: 500 kW (680 hp)
• Torque: 870 Nm
• 0–100 km/h: 3.9 s
• Top speed: 230 km/h
• Range (WLTP): up to 593 km
• Battery: 106 kWh, 800 V lithium-ion
• DC charging: up to 350 kW

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