Polestar 2 gets tech and audio boost for 2026 model year

Polestar is giving its Polestar 2 electric car a significant upgrade for the 2026 model year, focusing on technology and audio enhancements. The Swedish automaker wants to keep its popular EV competitive with new features that improve the overall driving and entertainment experience.

A key update is the integration of a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor chip. Although Polestar did not specify which chip it actually is, we presume Polestar meant an upgrade to the Snapdragon 820 platform. This means a 2.1 GHz Kryo CPU with Adreno 530 GPU and super-fast X12 LTE modem built-in. This upgrade will significantly speed up the car's infotainment system. Drivers will notice faster app downloads, quicker response times within apps, and smoother overall performance on the center display.

The 2026 Polestar 2 also introduces a new exterior color called Dune. This metallic color, with its sandy hue and smooth mica finish, replaces the previous Jupiter option. Additionally, a new five-spoke design for the 20-inch forged alloy Performance wheels is available as part of the optional Performance Pack.

Inside, customers can opt for a new bio-attributed MicroTech upholstery in Charcoal. This upholstery features a distinctive quilting design and Black Ash deco, available with the optional Plus Pack. For audiophiles, there's the new optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system. This premium system includes 14 speakers and delivers 1,350 watts of power.

The Standard range Single motor variant gets a battery upgrade with a 70 kWh battery from CATL replacing the previous 69 kWh LG Chem battery. This upgrade increases the car's range to 344 miles (WLTP), up from 339 miles. And the final update is the inclusion of Plug & Charge technology, previously seen in the Polestar 3. This lets drivers simply plug their car into a compatible public charger, and the car will automatically initiate and authenticate payment for the charging process.

Polestar also introduces a new, optional Prime Pack, bundling the Pilot, Plus, and Climate packs, along with rear privacy glass, into a single cost-effective package. The Polestar 2 model year 2026 is available to order in Europe, with other markets following later in the year.

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