2026 Polestar 2 Adds Faster Chip and Premium Audio Upgrade

Qualcomm Chip Boosts Infotainment Performance

The 2026 Polestar 2 update prioritizes measurable upgrades. The biggest change? A new Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. This chip runs the infotainment system faster and smoother. App launches are quicker. Touch responses improve. Users notice fewer lags during navigation or streaming.

This change positions the Polestar 2 more competitively in a market where EV buyers expect smartphone-level performance from their cars. The system now supports faster downloads, higher in-app responsiveness, and sharper center screen transitions. It’s a direct play for drivers who rely on Google-based infotainment.

Bowers & Wilkins Audio System Joins the Options List

Polestar added an optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system to attract customers focused on in-cabin experience. The new setup includes:

14 speakers
1,350-watt output
Tweeter-on-Top design
Continuum midrange speakers
Stainless-steel mesh covers
Polestar branding on door panels

This is Polestar’s first use of Bowers & Wilkins, already trusted in Volvo and BMW. The system delivers high-fidelity sound for premium buyers who care more about acoustic precision than base model audio.

Range Bump: New 70 kWh Battery

The Standard range Single motor variant now comes with a 70 kWh CATL battery, replacing the older 69 kWh LG Chem pack. Range improves from 546 km to 554 km (WLTP)—a gain of 5 miles, modest but competitive.

Here’s a breakdown:

Variant	Battery Supplier	Capacity	WLTP Range	Approx. EPA Est.
2025 Polestar 2 Standard RWD	LG Chem	69 kWh	546 km	~293 miles
2026 Polestar 2 Standard RWD	CATL	70 kWh	554 km	~297 miles

The updated range keeps the Polestar 2 aligned with the Tesla Model 3 RWD, which still leads at over 270 miles (EPA).

Plug & Charge Now Built-In

The 2026 Polestar 2 finally adds Plug & Charge functionality. Drivers can plug into compatible DC fast chargers and walk away—no apps or cards needed.

Activation happens inside the car or through the Polestar Charge app. Once enabled, authentication is automatic. This move cuts charging friction for U.S. and European customers using IONITY, Electrify America, or other networks with ISO 15118 support.

New Exterior and Interior Options

Polestar introduces new customization options with the 2026 model year to freshen showroom appeal.

Exterior:

New Dune metallic paint (replaces Jupiter)
Revised 20-inch forged alloy wheels with five-spoke layout
Lightest performance wheels in Polestar 2’s lineup

Interior:

Updated bio-attributed MicroTech upholstery in Charcoal
Contrasting Black Ash deco trim
Available through the Plus Pack

Optional Prime Pack Consolidates Features

Buyers can now choose the Prime Pack, bundling three existing upgrades:

Pilot Pack (driver assistance tech)
Plus Pack (comfort and interior features)
Climate Pack (cold-weather equipment)

It also includes rear privacy glass. The pack simplifies ordering and lowers total cost compared to buying each pack separately. This matters for leasing strategies and monthly payment calculators.

Trim and Powertrain Lineup Remains Unchanged

Polestar hasn’t adjusted its trim structure or powertrain layout. The 2026 Polestar 2 lineup still includes:

Standard range Single motor (RWD)
Long range Single motor (RWD)
Long range Dual motor (AWD)

Output and 0–60 mph times remain consistent with the 2025 model:

Trim	Output	0–60 mph	Est. Price (USD)
Standard RWD	~295 hp	~6.0 sec	~$51,000
Long Range RWD	~299 hp	~6.2 sec	~$54,000
Long Range AWD	~421 hp (up to 455 hp w/ Performance Pack)	~4.1 sec	~$59,000 to $64,000

Performance Pack buyers now benefit from the new lighter wheels, improving responsiveness and potentially shaving tenths from acceleration runs.

Global Availability Starts in Europe

As of April 2025, orders for the 2026 Polestar 2 are live across most European markets. Hong Kong and Israel are also included. U.S. and Canadian market rollouts are expected by Q3 2025.

Pricing hasn’t officially changed, but updates like the Prime Pack and audio upgrade will likely add $2,500 to $4,000 to the average transaction price. Polestar wants buyers to spend more without expanding the base lineup.

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Key Takeaways

Polestar’s 2026 refresh targets owners who value usability, not just looks.

Key Upgrades:

Qualcomm Snapdragon chip speeds up infotainment.
Bowers & Wilkins 14-speaker system adds premium sound.
Plug & Charge support simplifies EV charging.
CATL battery adds ~5 miles of range.
New Dune paint, wheels, and MicroTech interior modernize visuals.

Misses:

No performance gains
No pricing changes yet
No expansion of trim or drivetrain variety

Polestar focused on refinement and tech alignment, not reengineering. The hardware updates address pain points. The optional packs increase average sale price without inflating MSRP.

This update doesn’t leapfrog rivals, but it keeps the Polestar 2 firmly in the hunt—especially for EV buyers prioritizing Google-based software and streamlined charging workflows.