Audi e-tron vs Polestar 2

Audi’s use of “e-tron” is confusing. First, it’s technically lowercase, like this: e-tron. But that’s just weird. Second, since the name first appeared on a 2010 concept vehicle, both plug-in hybrids and electrics have worn it. Third, Audi has used e-tron interchangeably as a model name and a powertrain designation. This review is about the e-tron SUV model in its Sportback configuration.

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Polestar is one of the newest brands in the automotive firmament, but it still has a connection to an established automaker.

The Polestar name originally belonged to an independent motorsports and tuning company focused on modifying Volvos. It was eventually acquired by the Swedish automaker, and for a short time became its performance sub-brand, similar to Mercedes-AMG or BMW M. Volvo then decided to reassign the Polestar name to a new brand focused on electric vehicles. Launched for the 2021 model year, the Polestar 2 was the new brand’s first volume model, following the limited-edition Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid.

Polestar has other EVs planned, but for now the 2 remains its sole offering. The 2024 Polestar 2 gets some notable upgrades, including a range boost, revised styling, and some powertrain changes. All of that helps keep the 2 fresh in the face of competition like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6.

Polestar keeps its lineup simple. Buyers can choose between Long Range Single Motor and Long Range Dual Motor configurations. We sampled the single-motor Polestar 2 for this review.