Polestar has hinted that its new 3 SUV could spawn a number of additional derivatives including a high-riding off-road version and a range-topping performance variant. Speaking at the unveiling of the Polestar 3 – the brand’s first SUV – CEO Thomas Ingenlath suggested that the range had the potential to be expanded significantly over the next two years. 

Commenting on the possibility of future derivatives, Ingenlath said “We know already that the Polestar 3 is a very capable off-roader and we will look to explore every option.” As standard, the Polestar 3 comes with dual motor all-wheel drive and features a ‘torque vectoring’ system that allows precise power split between the wheels via two clutches. Launch versions are also equipped with air suspension rather than conventional steel springs. 

Equipped with this set-up, developing a model capable of tackling tougher terrain would require relatively minor engineering changes such as an increase in ride height and additional underfloor protection. Sister company Volvo has enjoyed success over recent year with a series of off-road inspired estates including the XC70 and V90 Cross Country. The addition of a similarly-styled Polestar 3 is likely to prove popular with buyers who want to take their cars further off the beaten track. 

In addition to an off-road variant, Polestar is also reviewing the possibility of a sporting flagship that could have even more power than the Performance model available from launch. That version, which will form part of the initial line-up that will arrive in Autumn 2023, already comes with 517bhp and 910Nm of torque. Boosting the output higher will give the Polestar 3 even sharper performance and put it on a par with rivals such as the Tesla Model Y Performance and the Porsche Taycan. 

Polestar 3 could go further off the beaten track if Swedish brand opts to launch an off-road variant