Polestar has unveiled major hardware upgrades for its flagship SUV, the Polestar 3. For the 2026 model year, the Swedish performance brand brings an 800-volt electrical architecture, faster charging, more power and a major increase in computing capability.
For drivers this means extra versatility: the 800-volt platform boosts peak DC charging to up to 350 kW, allowing a 10–80 percent charge in just 22 minutes, around 25 percent faster than before. The new system also improves overall efficiency by up to six percent and enables integration of the latest lithium-ion batteries from supplier CATL. These include a 92 kWh battery pack for the Rear Motor version and a 106 kWh pack for Dual Motor and Performance models.
But there’s more than just quicker charging. Performance has also increased across the range. The Performance variant now produces up to 670 bhp (500 kW) and 870 Nm of torque, achieving 0–62 mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph. The Dual Motor model delivers 544 bhp (400 kW) and 740 Nm, while the Rear Motor version offers 329 bhp (245 kW) and 480 Nm.
To improve efficiency, the front motor can automatically disconnect when not needed, shifting the power balance toward the rear axle. Combined with updated anti-roll bars and revised steering software, the new configuration is said to enhance handling and driving engagement while maintaining long-distance comfort.
Polestar has also introduced a new core computing platform using the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin processor, replacing the previous Xavier unit. Processing performance rises from 30 trillion to 254 trillion operations per second, improving the responsiveness and intelligence of active safety, battery and energy management systems.
The upgrade will be offered as a complimentary retrofit for existing Polestar 3 customers, with installations due to begin in early 2026.
New 800-volt architecture part of simplified range
For 2026, Polestar has simplified the trim line-up to Rear Motor, Dual Motor and Performance, replacing the previous naming convention. The Rear Motor model now starts from £69,990, Dual Motor from £77,990, and Performance from £91,990. Battery range figures are rated at up to 394 miles for the Dual Motor, 375 miles for the Rear Motor, and 368 miles for the Performance variant.
A revised pack and options structure now simplifies ordering. The new Prime Pack (£6,500) bundles the Pilot, Plus and Climate packs with rear privacy glass, and is standard on the Performance model. The optional Plus Pack (£4,600) adds a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, head-up display and active road noise cancellation. A new Climate Pack (£700) adds heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and heated wiper blades, while the Pilot Pack (£2,300) includes lane change assist and a 360° 3D camera.
Design updates include a new metallic colour called Storm, refreshed model graphics and upgraded Bio-attributed MicroTech upholstery with repurposed aluminium décor as standard.
The upgraded Polestar 3 is available to order now for your next lease car, with first UK deliveries scheduled for early 2026.
