[SpicyBolt]

After three weeks my Bolt is repaired and I’ve returned the Polestar 2 to the rental company. The extended rental period allowed for validation of many initial impressions and reconsideration of others.

I found the front console to be poorly designed. There is little storage space in an incredibly large space. Never got comfortable with the cup holder placement. I, and 3 passengers found the seats to be the most difficult of any to climb out. They are low. The back seats are low.

I really liked the user interface with the infotainment system. Intuitive and responsive. The Google assistant is much better than Siri. Climate control worked very well.

The car was very quick and powerful. It wasn’t the smoothest ride in the world. The range, too, was less than I expected. At 90% charge it showed 220 miles of expected range.

Overall, I would expect many people to be satisfied with the Polestar 2. There is a lot to like. As a driver I found the issues with space and storage to grow more annoying over time. As a healthy 70 year old man, I found getting out of the vehicle to be more difficult than it should be. I’m sure it’s okay for many, but not for me.

I would not buy a Polestar 2 but I understand why many would. I’m glad I had the chance to drive it for an extended period.

It's always nice to be able to rent a car for some time vs just a test drive. I hope your Bolt is good as new.

Many years ago, I rented a Miata while on winter vacation in San Diego. A few years later, I ended up buying one here in Minnesota. As much as I enjoyed my Miata, it wasn't quite as nice as the rental. However, that may have had more to do with location.😃

 

[Packard V8]

After three weeks my Bolt is repaired and I’ve returned the Polestar 2 to the rental company. The extended rental period allowed for validation of many initial impressions and reconsideration of others. I, and 3 passengers found the seats to be the most difficult of any to climb out. They are low. The back seats are low. . . . As a healthy 70 year old man, I found getting out of the vehicle to be more difficult than it should be. I’m sure it’s okay for many, but not for me.

I would not buy a Polestar 2 but I understand why many would. I’m glad I had the chance to drive it for an extended period.

Agree. I have similar reaction to the Tesla Model 3. Once settled in and going down the highway, the Model 3 seats are more comfortable than the Bolt. However, climbing in and out while city errand running is easy with the Bolt, a PITA with the low-slung Model 3. Glad I have the opportunity to occasionally drive one in the family.

jack vines

 

[jwaterman]

Agree. I have similar reaction to the Tesla Model 3. Once settled in and going down the highway, the Model 3 seats are more comfortable than the Bolt. However, climbing in and out while city errand running is easy with the Bolt, a PITA with the low-slung Model 3. Glad I have the opportunity to occasionally drive one in the family.

jack vines

We tried the Model 3 but went with the Model Y. Cargo space was the primary reason but the low seats factored heavily into our decision. Keeping the Bolt, too.

 

[jwaterman]

Couple of updates. First, the body work on the Bolt was not acceptable so back in the shop. The gap between the bumper and rear fender was wide at the top and touching at the bottom. After a second attempt it is better but still not right. Will talk to adjuster. Second, had a chance to test drive RWD Ioniq5, SE model. Liked it so ordered RWD limited model, due in 3 to 6 months. Will keep Tesla order open as it isn’t scheduled for delivery until December.

 

[mattbatt]

OK so first off the Polestar 2 STARTS at $47k that's a car in a different price class than the Bolt and I hate when people compare differently priced cars without mentioning that Yes the Ferrari is nicer than the Caviler, but it costs a lot more too.
Second I feel like Polestar is aiming at a sportier market than the Bolt. But that could be because The most I hear about it is from Misha who drives for Apex a Nürburgring Taxi/Rental company.

Long story short, I'm jealous.

 

[jwaterman]

OK so first off the Polestar 2 STARTS at $47k that's a car in a different price class than the Bolt and I hate when people compare differently priced cars without mentioning that Yes the Ferrari is nicer than the Caviler, but it costs a lot more too.
Second I feel like Polestar is aiming at a sportier market than the Bolt. But that could be because The most I hear about it is from Misha who drives for Apex a Nürburgring Taxi/Rental company.

Long story short, I'm jealous.

I definitely realize an apples to apples comparison between the Bolt and Polestar 2 can’t be made. Having said that there are some aspects of every vehicle that can be compared. Functionality of space, ease of access and egress and functionality of common features between brands can be compared regardless of price. I noticed in the video the minute the driver got on the track he grumbled about the height of the center console. I think the Bolt has a much more functional interior space with ample storage, good cup holder location and easy access to controls. The PS2, not so much. It’s a performance demon for sure. It’s nice looking. After driving the PS2 for the better part of a month I find the Bolt far less sexy but very functional, accessible and actually, strictly my opinion, more fun to drive.

 

[mattbatt]

Can I tell you it drives me NUTS that the center console arm rest and the arm rest on the door are different heights in the Bolt.