By Veeno Dewan

There are few changes to Hyundai’s flagship Palisade luxury orientated SUV. It has always been a high value, nicely equipped family vehicle at a competitive price. New touches for 2024 include automatic climate control in the front and rear cabin as standard across the trim range and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon featuring an in-car intercom for the rear passenger as standard on both Urban and Ultimate models. Entry-level models are well equipped with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen instead of the previous models eight-inch unit.
Power for the Palisade is provided by an Atkinson cycle 3.8-liter V6, dual CVVT, direct-injected engine producing 291 horsepower. The transmission is an eight-speed automatic unit with a multi-plate torque converter and Hyundai’s HTRAC® four-wheel-drive fitted as standard to AWD models. All-wheel drive is standard on all Palisade models in Canada.
The 2024 Hyundai Palisade model comes in 5 trim levels and Canadian pricing ranges from $49,499 to $58,299. The entry-level, Preferred model starts at $49,499. The price for the mid-range Urban 7-Passenger trim (As tested.) is $55,199. The most expensive trim in the lineup is the Ultimate Calligraphy priced at $58,299 Freight and PDI is $1,975.
The Urban edition arrives in either a seven- or 8-seater version and adds a standard Sunroof, Smart Key with Keyless Entry, Keyless Start, heated Steering Wheel, Climate Control A/C, Auto, 3 Zones, Remote App Control, power synthetic Leather heated and ventilated front seats, rear. There are second row Captain’s heated seats and Fold Flat Third Row Seats. As standard is an upgraded 12-speaker, Harman/Kardon, Surround Sound system, 12.30-inch, Colour, Touchscreen, Voice Activating System for Audio, Phone, and Navigation. Apple Carplay, and Android connectivity The Palisade offers drivers the ability to start the vehicle via remote key fob or via the Blue Link app.
The Palisade has a great looking interior, with premium quality styling and materials. The center console has an updated “floating” design with good storage capacity. New expanded ambient lighting sets varying moods in the Palisade highlighted by a mix of high-quality contrasting materials throughout the cabin. Fit and finish is excellent with a premium feel.
Access to the small adult or kids sized third-row seats is much easier in the Palisade with one touch folding second row seats, Rear second row passengers also gain built-in sun shades, and heated and cooled seat functions. In terms of cargo space, the hands-free power liftgate offers a cavernous area when the second- and third-row seats are folded.
On the road, the Palisade is impressively quiet. The eight-speed automatic shifts seamlessly and engine noise is muted thanks to the good under-hood insulation, and special sound-deadening carpets. The powertrain tuning delivers smooth linear response and impressive acceleration. Maximum Power from the V6 is 291 hp @ 6000 rpm with max Torque at 262 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm. The Palisade handles and brakes very well with no issues. Drivers can tune the Palisade by choosing different driving modes, via a dial that can select Normal, Comfort and a firmer Sport mode, plus Eco and a “Smart” setting that automatically adapt to your driving style. There are also “terrain” settings, for Snow, Mud, and Sand –selected via a rotary knob that adjusts the AWD system’s parameters.
You are in serious good luck if you tow a boat or trailer, the Palisade offers an excellent standard towing capacity of 5,000 lb, (2,268 kg), which is top of its class. All Palisades come with a two hitch, Trailer Sway Control, pre-wiring, and a heavy-duty transmission oil cooler as standard equipment, while an auto-levelling rear suspension and a Class III receiver hitch are optional. Fuel economy is rated at 11.2 L/100Km combined, 12.6 city and 9.5 highway.
The Palisade is extremely high on safety, and equipped with Hyundai’s full active safety suite, including lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, plus blind spot monitoring with instrument cluster view, occupant monitoring system, and rear Safe Exit Assist system.
I just have to recommend the Palisade very highly. Even the base model is very well equipped and superb value. Quality is high, and the cabin is brilliant in execution. Downsides are few, the V6 can be thirsty and there is no Hybrid or All- electric version as yet. However, with a versatile roomy interior layout and the best towing capacity in its class, the Palisade is one heck of a good buy for any active family. Highly recommended.

Pricing: 2024 Hyundai Palisade Urban: priced from:$49,499- $58,299. More info at: www.Hyundai.ca

TORONTO, Ontario– Building upon greatness, the new 2025 Toyota Camry enters its ninth generation with a fresh new look, enhanced performance and a Hybrid powertrain that’s made to move.. And now, as a part of Toyota’s effort to provide electrification for all, the 2025 Toyota Camry will be an exclusively Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), offering a combination of power and fuel efficiency that is ready to take on the daily drive.
“Toyota has led the industry in providing drivers with vehicles that reduce emissions and boost fuel efficiency. We have sold more than 20 million electrified vehicles worldwide since 1997 and today we offer Canadians a broad range of models to ensure there’s an electrified vehicle for every lifestyle,” said Cyril Dimitris, Vice President, Toyota Canada Inc. “This includes a growing number of models that are exclusively hybrid-electric such as the Prius, Crown, Venza, Sienna, and Sequoia – and we’re excited to add another core model, the Toyota Camry, to that list.”
Powering Camry is Toyota’s first-ever sedan pairing of its 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder engine and the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5). Combining the engine’s power with two electric motors, this dynamic new HEV has a standard 225 net combined horsepower on Front Wheel Drive (FWD) models and 232 hp on Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) equipped models. Toyota engineers have also tuned the new HEV system at lower speeds to reduce engine RPMs and increase power from the traction battery to provide satisfying acceleration and torque feel. The Toyota Camry will also adopt the “Beyond Zero” badge to signal Toyota’s strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions and its vision for a carbon-neutral future.
For the first time ever on a Camry Hybrid, Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system will be available on all grades. For added peace of mind, the AWD system provides additional traction when needed, like during inclement weather or while cornering. The AWD system’s capability comes from a dedicated rear electric drive motor generator that automatically supplies power to the rear wheels when needed.
The ninth generation Camry, designed by CALTY’s Newport Beach, California and Ann Arbor, Michigan studios, delivers a sleeker, athletic look to the popular sedan’s design.
The new Open-Style Cockpit design offers the modern open-concept and refined materials offer a unique experience to the interior design of each grade. Beginning with the sport grades, the SE comes standard with Black SofTex®-trimmed seats featuring sporty bold white accents while the XSE adds a standard leather-trimmed interior with artistic “shooting blade” patterned perforations found on both the side door trim and seating surfaces. The XSE interior is available in two colours Black with blue lined perforations or the fan-favorite Cockpit Red. The XLE grade is the first Camry to feature leather and Dinamica® microfiber-trimmed seats offered in Light Gray or Black. A quilted pattern in this material can also be found on the front door panels and dashboard.
Toyota Camry also sets the standard for convenience. The next generation model comes with a standard push-to-start button, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system with rear air vents.
For the 2025 model, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster comes standard on SE models, while a standard 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster is found in the XLE and XSE grades. The XLE and XSE grades also come with a standard 10-inch Head Up Display to allow drivers to check their speed, see warning indicators, and turn-by-turn navigation.
The Toyota Multimedia System includes a standard 8-inch touchscreen display or an available 12.3-inch screen. The system includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and pairs with the standard Qi wireless charging pad. Camry also offers a standard combination of USB-A and USB-C ports, with three in the front and two in the rear across all grades.
With an active available Drive Connect* trial or subscription, Camry drivers can also interact with the system through touch and voice activation. With Intelligent Assistant available through Drive Connect*, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice-activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates will also be available.

Review by Veeno Dewan

Visually, Mazda’s CX-5 is still one of the best in the compact crossover segment. Mazda’s Kodo design language combines edgy futurism with classic shapes without the need for gimmicky flourishes. For 2024 the CX-5 continues with last years mild revamp with range of model’s trims.
Engine choices include a naturally aspirated SKYACTIVE 2.5-liter inline-four with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. There is an optional SKYACTIVE 2.5-liter turbocharged cylinder unit producing 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard through the . Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode and paddle shifters.
We tested the new Suna Edition that replaces the previous Kuro Edition. This is a special model offering unique styling touches inside and out, Suna Edition trims add a cool Mazda Zircon Sand Metallic paint and black exterior touches, 19-inch alloy wheels, side mirrors, and front grille. Interior wise, But the Suna Edition will also feature an interior terracotta upholstery with black suede inserts, terracotta stitching and accent trims. Talk about classy. Its an interior that’s looks very unique. The Suna Edition package will be available on the upcoming 2024 Mazda3 Sport, MX-30 EV, CX-30, and CX-5.
Interior wise the Suna model has a neat, well- detailed cabin that has a sporty theme. The slick looking seats are offset by plenty of bronze, chrome, and gunmetal trim. Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery and Abachi wood-trim are highlights. The controls are simple, the gauges clear and there is a seamless uncluttered look to the dash. Infotainment comprises a 10-speaker, Bose, Surround Sound audio system, , Voice Activating System, Audio, Phone, Carplay, Android, USB, Bluetooth, AM/FM, Satellite Radio, Wireless Charging Pad, Navigation, and head-up Display and more. A 10.3-inch screen now sits atop the dashboard, replacing a smaller 7.0-inch display. The updated system features the new Mazda Connect interface, Mazda Connected Services (a Wi-Fi hotspot and access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app),
The front seats are roomy with good ergonomics and range of adjustment. Ventilated front seats (three positions adjustable), rear side airbags, heated front seats and heated rear seats (outboard seats only) and heated steering wheel are present. The rear cabin is smallish, and seats two adults in comfort, but three will be a squeeze. Nappa Leather upholstery and premium cross-stitched details are present. The CX-5 has 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat with the second row of seats down and more space available with the second row folded.
Safety is good with both active and passive systems such as: Skyactiv Technology Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems. Options include Adaptive cruise control is also included along with automatic reverse braking and a driver inattention warning system plus much more.
On the road, the 2.5L engines dynamic Pressure turbocharger ensure there is plenty of acceleration and a wide power band of usable torque, especially in the mid – range. There is a wonderfully linear, quick, and crisp acceleration with minimal turbo lag. Occupants are also well insulated from rough roads thanks to the improvements to the CX-5’s suspension, reducing noise, vibration, and harshness. Then revised damping also increases comfort. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system also adds refinement to the performance with sharpened handling adding some downforce on the front tires during cornering, keeping understeer to a minimum.
As mentioned earlier, all-wheel drive is available and offers superb grip. By the way, traction control is standard along with Dynamics Stability Control. Not much to complain about, the six-speed automatic transmission errs more to performance than fuel economy. fuel consumption estimates are 10.8/8.7 L/100 km (city/highway)
There is not lot to complain about, I was expecting more contrast trim in the interior cabin as its still mainly black. A few Suna Edition branding would be nice; for example on the seats, the steering wheel and some more color. Still the Suna us really the icing on the cake with unique attention-grabbing exterior and equally attractive interior. Just the thing to stand out from the crowd! Well worth considering if you are in the market for a fun to drive, nice looking compact CUV that offers superb value for money.

2024 Mazda CX – 5 Suna Edition Priced from $44,200. As tested – plus options and deliver – $46,295. More info at : www.mazda.ca

Auto review
by Veeno Dewan

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson is the Korean company’s fourth generation of its phenomenally successful compact SUV. The bold exterior design continues with Hyundai’s parametric dynamics design language- with creases, folds, and curves in the sheetmetal making for a sleek upmarket design. Hyundai’s compact 5-seat SUV has received some mild trim and packaging changes for 2024 and offer hybrid and gasoline engine powertrains. The Tucson receives: new rear seat side airbags, rear outboard seatbelt pre-tensioners, seatbelt reminders for all seats, and haptic steering wheel feedback for the lane-keeping and blind-spot warning systems.
In terms of powertrain, the Front-wheel-drive gas-powered models deliver 9.4 L/100 km during city driving, 7.4 on the highway and 8.5 combined, this is courtesy of a 187-hp 2.5-litre, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. The hybrid (HEV) models offers a turbocharged 1.6-litre four cylinder that makes a combined 226 hp, or 261 hp in plug-in hybrid models. All models use an eight-speed automatic transmission, apart from the sporty N-Line version. The standard self charging Hybrid (HEV) as tested has a fuel economy figure of around 6.4 L/100 km combined and an All-Electric driving range of 33km.while the PHEV features an all-electric range of 53 km on a full charge and 6.7 L/100 km combined when the battery is depleted. The hybrid (HEV) range starts at $40,099 – $42,499. All Tucson’s come equipped with excellent features as standard – really leaving most of its competition behind. The fully loaded models having all the bells and whistles you could wish for.
We tested the sporty Tucson N Line hybrid. The N Line treatment adds a unique sporty flair with exclusive bumpers front and rear, along with body-color wheel arches. There is black-out treatment around the exterior windows, plus racy split-five-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels. Also added is an N Line-only rear spoiler, Single twin-tip exhaust Shift-by-Wire gear selector, Paddle shifters, HTRAC™ All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Drive Mode Select and Electric Parking Brake. Performance upgrades add an optimised Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS), offering slightly edgier handling on the road through adaptive damping technology.
Interior N-Line enhancements include black suede N-branded sporty seats with red contrast stitching dedicated N steering wheel, leather gear shift knob and branded shift by wire console cover. the 2024 Hyundai Tucson N Line is priced at $40,599 plus destination. Fees and taxes. The Tucson is roomy with an acceptable level of head and legroom in all quarters. The front dash is good looking with a nicely rendered design and clear controls. The driver front cabin gains a heated steering wheel, and comfortable power-adjustable seats. The Tucson also features dual-zone climate control, a power liftgate, ambient lighting controls and a wireless phone charger. 10.25” full digital display instrument cluster Entertainment is courtesy if a Bose premium audio system with 8-speakers.The 1,097 litres of space in the cargo area expands to an impressive 2,108 litres when you fold the rear seats down. The rear quarters are spacious as well with adequate leg and headroom.
Ride quality is good ,even with the 19-inch wheels and tires. The Tucson also gains a vectoring control type system for better cornering with Hyundai’s e-Handling technology which meters out braking force to the front wheels through a corner and on exit as the electric motor sends more torque to the rear axle. The Tucson N Line is no super performance CSUV, but sport mode livens up things a little. Well weighted steering, compliant suspension set up and the AWD provide satisfying road feel, traction and inspire a sense of confidence. Downsides are few, Don’t expect a high-performance screamer, however the Tucson N line offers a decent turn of speed and agility.
Instead, driver s get a satisfying, sporty ride, and handling with enough interest to make it enjoyable to drive. It does look the part with its exterior additions and attractive sporty interior .Fuel economy is rated at (EnerGuide Estimate) – City: 6.3 (2023) (L/100 km) – Highway: 6.6 (2023) (L/100 km). The 2023 Tucson N-Line is a compelling buy in this segment. Highly recommended.

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (HEV) priced from – $40,099 – $42,499.
More info at Hyundai.ca

By Veeno Dewan
The Mazda3 is an award-winning car, much loved by Canadians for its sporty looks, refined interior, and sprightly performance, the Mazda3 arrives as either a hatchback or a sedan. This car is so good it has retaken the 2023 Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) award as a category winner in the Canadian Car of the Year awards the . as Best Small Car in Canada for 2023.
For 2024 changes include the introduction of a new Suna Edition, available 10.25” infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay™ and engine and Android Auto™ connectivity. Technical upgrades include a revised Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, replacing the previous Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter engine. This upgrade now delivers 191 horsepower and an impressive 186 lb-ft of torque with either regular 87 octane or premium 93 octane fuel. There is also better fuel efficiency.
There is a large range of MAZDA3 models with a sedan and hatchback, turbo and non turbo models, standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and available i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) in select models. Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport models are now equipped with the efficient Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, paired with a smooth-shifting Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode and Drive Selection switch, FWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus. As standard is an 8.8-inch centre display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, push button start, remote keyless illuminated entry, and rearview camera. The biggest news for 2024 is the new Mazda3 Sport Suna Edition which arrives in fabulous looking Zircon Sand Metallic exterior colour with 18-inch black metallic finish wheels and gloss black door mirrors. Unique exterior styling elements include a black interior that features AN exclusive Black/Terracotta, completed with exquisite Terracotta stitching. The Mazda 3 is among the models set to receive a Suna special edition for 2024. The new Suna (“Sand”) Zircon color is exclusive to the Suna versions. It is quite an eye-catching shade and drew lots of interesting looks.
The Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport GT Turbo are powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. With regular 87 octane fuel, the turbo engine has 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
We tested the 2024 Mazda3 GT with 2.5L SkyActiv engine with AWD and the 6-Speed auto transmission. The car looked stunning in the signature Red Crystal Soul metallic paint, Its great looking car from all directions sitting on the 18-inc h wheels and tires.
The interior is exemplary with a sporty, neat driver orientated cockpit. and good cabin packaging. The ambience is premium all the way with quality as good as some entry -level high priced German cars. The dash features an 8.8-inch infotainment display situated higher up and set angled towards the driver. The “Commander” control knob on the center console, for the infotainment system is simple to use and quick in reaction. The cabin also features specially designed seats and ergonomics that make the driver feel as if they are at one with the car, the front cabin is roomy enough, although it is a squeeze to fit three large adults in the back.
Cargo capacity is rated at 374l (940 total with rear down.) Active and passive safety aids include Smart Brake Support Rear (SBS-R), Smart Brake Support Rear Crossing (SBS-RC), Front and rear parking sensors, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR. Also, on the safety front there is Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, windshield-projected colour Active Driving Display, and a host of other equipment.
On the road, the 2024 Mazda3 offers smooth drive dynamics and an exceptionally quiet cabin, and it all carries an air of luxury befitting a much more expensive vehicle. A distinct advantage with its superior grip and well-balanced torque. The Mazda3 still remains fun, sporty, and engaging to drive. The 2.5-liter L4 Engine never runs out of steam and is a lively willing performer with smooth quick gear changes. The chassis is beautifully balanced with good control and handling are thanks to the addition of supple suspension and well calibrated steering. The sophisticated All-wheel-drive system provides confidence and grip in all situations.
Not a lot to complain about, fuel economy is rated at 8.9/100 km (city) / 6.6L/100 (highway) / 7.9L/100 km (combined). The 2024 Mazda3 GT offers a fresh take on this perennial favourite. Highly recommended.

2024 Mazda3 GT AWD: Priced from $333,200. As tested with Options, freight and PDE – $36,995.

More info at www.mazda.ca

By Veeno Dewan

The 2024 Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered is an offshoot variant of the Volvo V60 wagon. Sleek, solid looking, the V60 looks every inch the desirable expensive premium Swedish wagon it is. Its five-door format with a rear hatch and a useful cargo area make it supremely versatile The Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered as tested is the plug-in-hybrid powertrain variant with electric all-wheel drive, and Polestar Engineering to make it very performance focused with excellent handling and acceleration, Key change for 2024 is an increase in battery size from 9.1 kWh to 14.9 kWh, which increases EV range to handy 64km. Maximum power is now up to an astonishing 455 horsepower, with peak torque at 523 pound-feet. The V60 Polestar is distinguished by a Polestar Grill, Colour Coordinated Door Handles w/ Illumination and Puddle Lights. Hidden Tailpipes, Black Retractable Rear-View mirrors and a Bowers and Wilkins Premium Sound System. The Polestar Chassis is uprated with Öhlins Dampers with Polestar Engineered Stiffer Springs, front Brembo brakes Polestar engineered front strut brace, Bump Stops and 19” 5-Y Spoke Black Polished Forged Alloy Wheels. It looks exotic with a premium European image and feel about it. It comes superbly equipped and safety is extremely high as in all Volvo Vehicles.
The engine is a –2.0L, Direct-Injected Turbocharged Engine with total output of 455 hp and 523 pound-feet of torque. The revised turbo-only engine produces 312 horsepower and 295 pound-feet on its own and is aided by the battery. Power is transmitted to the ground via an 8-Speed Geartronic Automatic Transmission. Official ratings are 8.0 L/100 km in the city, 7.2 L/100 km on the highway, and 7.6 L/100 km combined —

The V60 Polestar has a starting price of 77,500 and offers a huge list of equipment such as: Panoramic Sunroof, Keyless Entry with Handsfree Tailgate Opening, 12.3” Driver Display, Power Adjustable Heated Front Seats with Driver Memory. Entertainment includes Google Automotive Services w/ Google Maps, Google Assistant & Google Play Store, Volvo Cars App w/ 4 Year Subscription, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto plus Sirius Satellite Radio. Creature features include: HomeLink™, 4 Zone Climate Control, Air Purifier, Heated Steering Wheel, ventilated Front Seats and a Head Up Display,
The V60 cabin itself is very typical Volvo; with a wonderfully bright and unique looking interior. Our tester in a tasteful Thunder Grey paint had the Charcoal Nappa leather/Leatherette/interior.
A plethora of metal detailing, tasteful trim, and chrome are also highlights. A large, sunroof, a power tailgate, and heated leather seats are also standard fare The seats are excellent as well — comfortable and incredibly supportive and the front cabin is very roomy. The standard powered lift gate opens up to 648 L of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1431 L. Its low cargo floor height is a boon for loading stuff. Safety is high, with such features such as: Pilot Assist, Semi Autonomous Drive System w/ Adaptive Cruise Control, 360° Camera, Park Assist Front and Rear & Side LED Headlights with Active Bending Lights, Collision Mitigation Support, Front & Rear, Lane Keeping Aid, Descent Control. Road Sign Information (RSI) automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and other features too long to list.
On the road, The turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder unit offers smooth acceleration, and it was hard to detect any turbo lag. offers crisp off the line starts, and the eight-speed automatic delivers smooth shifts. The driving experience is particularly good, the solid chassis offers a ride that is compliant and comfortable. The Polestar engineered suspension exhibits little body roll or wandering when taking curves. There is excellent traction on all road surfaces and light trails. The steering is responsive. Hard cornering is taken care of it effortlessly. Acceleration is amazingly fast and this is true sleeper performance wagon on par with any of its contemporaries out there.as befits it specification and quality. The eight-speed automatic transmission is unobtrusive and the transition from Electric drive to the gas engine is almost undetectable. Brake regeneration can be activated by shifting the wagon into B instead of D,
Nothing too negative to write about the V60 Polestar. It is expensive and strangely although the battery is upgraded, a full charge will still require an overnight plug-in via a Level 2 charger. The V60 Polestar Engineered is sublime, is sleek, graceful, powerful, and extremely fast and undeniably special – and you will not see many around which is a huge plus point. With its brilliantly executed premium Swedish design it is well worth the price. Superb in so many ways.

2024 Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered. Priced as tested- to $77, 500 plus Freight & PDI .$2,620.
More info at www.volvo.ca

Review by Veeno Dewan

Polestar is an unfamiliar name to Canadians and is a standalone sub-brand of the Swedish Volvo and Chinese Geely auto out of China – who actually own Volvo. It is a premium brand competing with the likes of Tesla and Audi, with a focus on quality, performance, and cabin design.
We were lucky to gain a test drive in the new Polestar P2 Crossover, an arresting All- Electric fastback-style five door hatchback with hints of Volvo in the design language. There are the distinctive Volvoesque Thor’s hammer-style LED daytime running lights and a high Volvo style tailgate. It looks fun and interesting.
For 2023, the Polestar P2 EV has slightly improved range for dual-motor models along with an upgraded heat pump for even better wintry weather performance. There is also more interior and exterior design options such as fresh paint colors, wheel designs, ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, Light Ash wood trim, removable sunshade for the panoramic glass roof, Advanced cabin filter and upgraded interior particulate matter sensor and new in-car apps.
There are two versions of the Polestar P2; the long-range single motor model, as tested and the long-range dual motor model evaluated a while ago. The single motor model features a 228 hp unit powering the front wheels with a driving range of 434 km of range. The dual-motor model features a combined 408 horsepower and all-wheel drive with extremely fast acceleration.
Both models feature a 78-kWh battery that allows 155 kW DC fast charging. Recharge times are good with the battery able to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 35 minutes. It takes eight hours to charge from empty to full using a 16-amp home setup.
Canadian pricing for the 2023 Polestar P2 Single Motor starts at $56,250, including the $2,300 destination fee. The Polestar 2 Dual Motor starts at $61,250, including the destination. Option packages for the single motor model include a Plus Pack for $5,700, which has an upgraded sound system, WeaveTech seats, energy-saving heat pump and a wireless phone charger. The upgraded $4,700 Pilot Pack adds some driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, parking assistance and blind spot information monitoring.
The optional Performance Pack to the Dual Motor models offer increased horsepower bumping to 476 hp, along with flashy gold painted Brembo brake calipers, and special Öhlins Dual Flow Valve adjustable shock absorbers and gold cosmetic accents here and there.
The Polestar interior also smacks of high quality Scandicool Volvo. A fixed panoramic sunroof makes the light interior even more airy and there is a fairly roomy cabin overall. The front area features fully-electrically adjustable heated seats with lumbar support, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, and a gamut of tech features accessed by the 11-inch portrait touchscreen. There is the same neat, minimalist, Scandinavian style dash, with few hard controls or buttons. The touchscreen operates and adjusts most functions.
The Polestar is truly green too, and features eco technology such as recycled materials in interior textile surfaces. Technology is high with an Android based Automotive operating system, Google Play and Google Assistant integration and the 13-speaker Harman Kardon Premium sound system. The rear is beautifully finished with comfortable seats and the Polestar offers 405 liters of cargo space, including the additional 41 liters under the false floor. cargo space in the trunk. Space expands to 1,070 litres when the rear seats are folded. The 2023 Polestar 2 is rated to tow 3,000 lbs.
On the road, the 2023 Polestar P2 has the typically intoxicating instant acceleration of all EVs from a standing start. The drive modes include a regenerative braking mode, which can be set to coast or maximise charge with one-pedal driving which is nicely calibrated. The steering is also well weighted and nicely progressive along with fine handling. There is good traction when accelerating in all conditions. Suspension errs to soft although the Performance Pack equipped version with the bigger tires rides a little firmer. Overall, there is a nice balanced feel to the Polestar 2 on the road. There are some downsides, its not super agile and the Dual motor model packages are pricy.
Still the Polestar P2 is a premium hatchback that can stand against rivals such as the Tesla Model 3, Audi Q4 E-Tron, and Volkswagen ID.3. It can only get better. If you like Volvo’s you will not be disappointed with the Polestar.
2023 Polestar P2 Single motor. Priced from t $56,250, including the $2,300 destination fees. Option extra.

More info at www.polestar.ca