The Polestar 5 is shaping up to be one of the most interesting electric grand tourers on the horizon. Sitting at the premium end of Polestar’s growing line-up, it’s designed to take on established players like the Porsche Taycan and the Audi RS e-tron GT, but with a distinctly Scandinavian take on performance, sustainability and design.

We got our first proper look at the Polestar 5 at the Brussels Motor Show, and while we haven’t driven it just yet, the hardware and ambition on display suggest this is a very serious contender in the luxury electric saloon segment.

Performance

Polestar is offering the 5 in multiple configurations, with performance firmly at the heart of the package. The headline figures are eye-catching. In Performance trim, Polestar is targeting a 0–100km/h time of around 3.2 seconds, with engineers hinting that real-world results could be even quicker when launch control is engaged.

The Dual Motor version is slightly more relaxed, but still rapid by everyday standards, with a claimed 0–100km/h time just under four seconds. Either way, this is firmly performance GT territory rather than outright hypercar theatrics, which feels very much in keeping with Polestar’s understated approach.

We’ll look forward to taking it out on the road for a full review in the coming months.

Range and Charging

Powering the Polestar 5 is a large 106kWh usable battery (112kWh total capacity), integrated directly into the aluminium structure of the car. Polestar says this not only improves efficiency, but also boosts overall rigidity, something that should pay dividends when it eventually hits Irish roads.

In terms of range, the Dual Motor version is targeting up to 678km WLTP, while the higher-performance model drops to around 558km WLTP. Those figures put it right in the mix with its closest rivals, even if ultra-long-range EVs like the Mercedes EQS still go further.

Where the Polestar 5 really impresses is charging. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, it supports ultra-rapid DC charging at up to 350kW. In ideal conditions, Polestar claims a 10–80% charge in just over 20 minutes. For home charging in Ireland, a full charge on a typical 7kW wallbox will take roughly 16 hours.

While final Irish specs haven’t been confirmed, we’d expect the Polestar 5 to support vehicle-to-load and potentially broader bi-directional charging functions, following in the footsteps of the Polestar 3.

Design and Interior

The Polestar 5’s exterior design is sleek, low-slung and unmistakably premium, but it’s inside where the car really makes its case. Polestar continues to push its sustainability message, using recycled and bio-based materials throughout the cabin without it feeling worthy or compromised.

Materials made from flax composites replace traditional plastics in places, reducing weight and lowering environmental impact, while still delivering a tactile, high-end finish. It’s a cabin that feels modern and carefully considered, rather than flashy.

The dashboard is dominated by a large 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen running Google built-in, giving access to Google Maps, Assistant and Play Store apps directly through the car. The system looked responsive and intuitive during our time with it, with plenty of customisation available for shortcuts and menus.

Technology levels are suitably high, with a standard premium audio system and an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade featuring 21 speakers, active noise cancellation and a rear soundbar. Driver assistance is handled by Polestar’s Pilot Assist system, using a comprehensive array of cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors to support semi-autonomous driving.

Rear passengers are treated to a genuinely luxurious experience too, with sculpted seats, four-zone climate control and even massage functionality. The Polestar 5 is primarily designed as a four-seater, though there is a narrow fifth seat option if needed.

One notable design talking point is the absence of a rear window. Like the Polestar 4, the 5 relies on a high-definition rear-view camera instead. It keeps the exterior design clean and aerodynamic, but it’s likely to divide opinion once customers get behind the wheel.

Cost Considerations

Irish pricing is set to start from €129,200 for the Dual Motor model, and rising to €144,200 for the Performance version. That places it firmly in premium territory, but it comes well equipped as standard, with features like a panoramic glass roof, large alloy wheels, advanced driver assistance and a fully loaded infotainment system included from the outset.

Verdict

From our first look at the Brussels Motor Show, the Polestar 5 feels like a confident statement of intent. It blends strong performance, rapid charging and long-distance ability with a genuinely premium interior and a clear sustainability focus.

It won’t be for everyone. The price, the four-seat layout and the rear camera-only view will all be talking points. But for buyers looking for a distinctive electric GT that prioritises design, comfort and real-world usability over outright excess, the Polestar 5 is shaping up to be one of the most compelling premium EVs heading for Ireland.

We’ll reserve final judgement until we get it on Irish roads, but first impressions suggest Polestar is very much playing in the big leagues with this one.