The numbers tell the story: a 49% increase in overall sales, a 107% growth in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales, and consistent demand across its best-selling models, which are the BMW X1, X2, and 5 Series.  

And it’s not just Singapore. Across the region, BMW Asia has marked its highest-ever sales volume.  

“Our achievement in Singapore is definitely one for the books,” said Lars Nielsen, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia. “I believe our success this year is the result of providing a strong product portfolio, across both ICE and BEV models, delivering a series of exceptional customer experiences, and our steadfast determination to work with our partners towards one goal.”  

Electrification Powers BMW Growth  

If there’s one takeaway from BMW’s 2024 performance, it’s this: electrification takes up quite a big percentage.

The brand’s BEV portfolio surged by 107% year-on-year, reflecting a global shift in consumer sentiment. This growth aligns with BMW Group Asia’s regional success, where BEV sales saw a 35% increase, driven by models like the BMW i4, iX, and i7.  

“While 2024 certainly presented its fair share of challenges, our customers demonstrated their loyalty and trust in our brand, both of which were instrumental in getting us to where we are today,” Nielsen added. “We remain committed to going bigger and better this year, and we cannot wait to show Singapore what is in store for 2025!”   

While electrification is gaining ground, BMW’s high-performance division, BMW M, continues to prove that sheer driving pleasure is still very much alive.  

The BMW M division recorded a 45% increase in sales, reflecting the growing appetite for performance vehicles in Singapore. Models like the M3, M4, and X5 M Competition continue to attract enthusiasts who crave power, precision, and an unmistakable exhaust note.  

MINI also posted impressive figures, with a 17% sales increase in Singapore. MINI’s BEV sales also skyrocketed by an astonishing 1,163%. Probably due to the fact most of the models being sold here are electric.

According to Daren Ching, Head of MINI Asia, this is only the beginning. “MINI fans can rest assured that 2025 will be just as exciting,” Ching said. “From the official launch of the all-new MINI Cooper Convertible to the expansion of the MINI John Cooper Works lineup, there is something for everyone.”  

Following the successful launch of the all-new BMW 1 Series, X3, and 530i Signature at the Singapore Motorshow, 2025 will see the arrival of:  

• The all-new 2 Series Gran Coupe
• The all-new M5 Touring
• The new iX
• The all-new MINI Cooper Convertible
• An expanded lineup of MINI John Cooper Works models  

Beyond the cars, BMW is also investing in its customer experience.  

The newly transformed BMW Retail.Next flagship showroom, an expanded service network, and a commitment to personalised customer service all point towards a more immersive, customer-focused approach to car ownership.  

According to Lawrence Tan, Managing Director of Performance Motors, this is just the beginning. “We take pride in setting the benchmark for excellence in the premium automotive market and are excited to build on this momentum. With our flagship showroom, expanded service network, and a suite of industry-leading personalised service offerings, we are confident that BMW will continue strengthening its presence in Singapore.”  

Meanwhile, Jason Lim, Managing Director of BMW Eurokars Auto, echoed this sentiment.  “2024 has been a remarkable year for BMW Eurokars Auto, marked by significant sales achievements made possible by the phenomenal efforts of our dedicated team,” Lim said. 

“Looking ahead, we are excited to showcase exclusive features such as the stunning BMW Skytop and the iconic i7 SG60 edition, which is a 1-of-1 model at the BMW Eurokars Experience Centre.”  

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Alexander is the current Vice President of Individualisation and Classic at Porsche, and his journey in the automotive world is as compelling as the vehicles he’s helped create, culminating in the awe-inspiring Sonderwunsch program.

We caught up with him at the launch of the limited-edition Celestial Jade Taycan, and dove more in-depth into what makes the Sonderwunsch program so special.

Redefining Bespoke Luxury

Sonderwunsch, translating to “special request”, is not your average customisation program. It goes beyond selecting from a menu of pre-defined options. Instead, it’s about crafting something entirely unique, where the only limit is imagination.

Imagine a car that embodies a memory, a personality, or even a dream. Fabig likens it to bespoke tailoring, a precise and deeply personal process. “It’s not just about horsepower or aerodynamics,” he explains. “It’s about materials, colours, stitching, and storytelling.” In essence, Sonderwunsch transforms a car from a vehicle into a canvas of expression.

Recent projects, such as the stunning Sally Special and the Celestial Jade Taycan, highlight the program’s philosophy. The Celestial Jade Taycan, in particular, blends Porsche’s electric future with timeless customisation.

The Visionary Behind Sonderwunsch

From his early days of engineering fascination to becoming a pivotal figure in one of the automotive world’s most iconic brands, Fabig has always been driven by the mantra: “Dream it, and we’ll build it.” His leadership has transformed the Sonderwunsch program into a fairytale for owners vying for something truly unique in their collections.

In Fabig’s words, the program is all about offering an experience. Take the case of a customer who collaborated on a one-off 993 Speedster. Not content to merely provide input, the owner even painted parts of the car himself.

“It’s about turning clients into creators,” Fabig says with a smile. It’s this hands-on ethos that sets Sonderwunsch apart from other luxury carmakers’ personalisation programs.

Crafting Dreams, Building History

Fabig recounts the overwhelming emotion when unveiling creations like the Sally Special, which raised millions for charity. “You can’t put a price on love,” he says, reflecting on the passion that drives clients to invest in these bespoke masterpieces.

What makes Sonderwunsch truly special is its alignment with Porsche’s DNA. “Our customers don’t want pickup trucks; they want Porsches,” Fabig quips.

And while performance remains a cornerstone of Porsche’s identity, Sonderwunsch shifts the spotlight to personal expression.

A Legacy of Innovation

As our conversation winds down, one thing is clear: Alexander Fabig’s work with the Sonderwunsch program has redefined what it means to own a Porsche, making it a deeply personal experience.

Not everyone will get a chance to own a fully bespoke car, but at least the program drafts up dreamers who yearn for more.

Fabig leaves us with this thought: “At Porsche, we’re building dreams. And when those dreams take to the streets, they become objects that will inspire generations to come.”

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The marque concluded 2024 with record achievements in bespoke customisation and a significant £300 million investment to expand its Goodwood facilities.

2024 saw the Bespoke Collective (Rolls-Royce’s elite team of designers, engineers, and artisans) push creative boundaries to craft some of the most audacious and personalised vehicles ever imagined.

From intricate marquetry featuring over 500 meticulously shaped wooden pieces to holographic paint finishes and solid gold sculptures, the level of detail and innovation reached unparalleled heights. This bespoke approach resonated deeply with clients, driving a 10% year-on-year increase in bespoke content value per car, the highest in the brand’s history.

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, remarked: “Our clients are redefining luxury by commissioning motor cars that are deeply personal and emotionally resonant. This remarkable growth in bespoke content reflects the trust and creativity of our clients.”

The £300 million expansion at Goodwood marks Rolls-Royce’s largest investment since the plant’s inauguration in 2003. This development will bolster bespoke and coachbuilding capabilities, ensuring the brand remains at the forefront of luxury automotive design as it transitions to an all-electric future.

The expansion will not only enhance production capacity but also reaffirm Rolls-Royce’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Currently employing over 2,500 individuals, Goodwood has transformed from producing one car a day at its inception to up to 28 motor cars daily.

Rolls-Royce introduced four new models in 2024, including the Cullinan Series II and Ghost Series II, alongside their Black Badge counterparts. These launches, coupled with robust demand for the Spectre (the marque’s first fully electric model) propelled global sales to 5,712 vehicles, marking the third-highest annual total in Rolls-Royce’s history.

Interestingly, Europe emerged as the strongest market for the Spectre, reflecting its appeal as the epitome of silent, electrified luxury. The brand’s flagship, the Phantom, maintained its revered status as the ultimate Rolls-Royce, while bespoke commissions originating from the Middle East highlighted the region’s appetite for opulent personalisation.

Rolls-Royce’s Private Offices, now expanded to New York and Seoul, offer a unique invitation-only experience for clients seeking unparalleled personalisation. These creative hubs allow clients to collaborate directly with designers, resulting in commissions that are, on average, 25% higher in value. The Whispers app, an exclusive members’ platform, also saw a 55% increase in membership, reinforcing the brand’s connection to its discerning clientele.

Rolls-Royce is poised to unveil its next all-electric model in 2025. As it enters this new chapter, the marque continues to celebrate its heritage while pushing the boundaries of luxury and craftsmanship.

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Notably, electric vehicles (EVs) played a pivotal role in this success, constituting 58% of total sales.

The star performer was the newly launched Volvo EX30, which became the brand’s best-selling model in Singapore. Together with the EX40 and EC40, these fully electric models make up Volvo’s current vehicle portfolio in Singapore.

Corinne Chua, Managing Director for Volvo at Wearnes, attributed this growth to the trust and confidence of Singaporean drivers. “The success of models like the EX30 and EX40 reflects our ability to meet the evolving preferences of our customers, who increasingly prioritise technology, safety, and sustainability. We remain committed to delivering premium electrified solutions that inspire confidence and contribute to the future of motoring in Singapore,” she said.

Globally, Volvo Cars has set ambitious goals, with more than 90% of its sales expected to come from electrified vehicles in the near future. Locally, the EX30, EX40, and EC40 have been pivotal in promoting this vision.

Looking ahead, Singaporean consumers can anticipate the arrival of the Volvo EX90 in 2025. Touted as a masterpiece of Scandinavian design, this model promises state-of-the-art safety features, sustainable performance, and a seamless blend of luxury and innovation.

Volvo Cars’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond vehicle electrification. The brand is steadfast in its goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

As the brand accelerates into 2025, its trajectory is clear: a dedication to crafting vehicles that embody freedom, safety, and sustainability. 

For more information or to explore Volvo’s latest offerings, visit the Volvo Cars Singapore website.

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Now serving as Vice President and General Manager of Design at Chery Automobile Co. Ltd, he’s at the helm of a brand that’s rapidly evolving from a regional contender to a global innovator.

Our conversation with Mr Eum delved into his career, Chery’s remarkable growth, and the company’s plans for electrifying the roads of Singapore and beyond.

Chery’s Meteoric Rise

Founded in 1997, Chery started as a state-owned venture in Wuhu, Anhui Province. With a vision to make cars for the Chinese middle class, it quickly gained traction through innovative models and a focus on affordability without compromising quality. Chery’s name, derived from the Chinese phrase “奇瑞” (meaning auspicious and prosperous), proved prophetic.

One of Chery’s pivotal moments was its commitment to exports. In 2001, it became the first Chinese carmaker to export vehicles, eventually reaching over 80 countries and regions. Chery has since exported more than 2.8 million vehicles globally, making it China’s largest passenger vehicle exporter for 20 consecutive years.

By 2023, Chery was producing over 1.5 million vehicles annually, with a significant portion being electric.

Its focus on technological advancement has earned it accolades, such as its inclusion in the Global Top 500 Most Valuable Brands and recognition for its ACTECO engines, which have won numerous awards for efficiency and reliability.

Shaping Automotive Design For The Future

Steve Eum’s journey in automotive design began with a fascination for problem-solving. He honed his craft at major international brands like General Motors, Hyundai, and Kia, gaining a reputation for combining creativity with technical rigour.

“A car is more than just transportation,” Eum explained. “It’s a reflection of our values, aspirations, and even our culture.”

When Eum joined Chery, the brand was already on the rise but lacked a clear global design identity. “Our first task was to create a cohesive design language that was unmistakably Chery,” he shared.

Under Eum’s leadership, Chery introduced its now-iconic design philosophy, “Life in Motion,” a principle inspired by the fluidity of nature and human movement. This ethos has been evident in recent models like the Tiggo 8 Pro.

A Vision For The Future

Steve Eum highlighted Chery’s strategic approach to EVs. “We’re not just making electric cars for the sake of it. Every model is designed to solve real-world challenges,” he explained. 

Chery is also pushing boundaries in autonomous driving. Through partnerships with tech giants like Huawei, it has developed Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous systems, which are being tested in various markets, including Asia and Europe. “Our goal is to democratize technology, making features like autonomous parking and adaptive cruise control accessible to more people,” said Eum.

For a nation like Singapore, where environmental consciousness and urban mobility are top priorities, Chery’s vision aligns perfectly. The government’s push for electrification, including plans to phase out internal combustion engines by 2040, creates fertile ground for Chery’s EV offerings.

Singapore’s consumers have already shown an appetite for Chery’s vehicles, with models like the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo J7.

Chery and Singapore

Steve Eum’s career and Chery’s evolution are a study in synergy. Both are proof that ambition, paired with a willingness to innovate, can lead to extraordinary results.

As our conversation wrapped up, Eum left us with a thought that summed up both his philosophy and Chery’s mission: “Great design isn’t about standing out; it’s about fitting in – into people’s lives, their dreams, their world.”

With leaders like Steve Eum at the wheel, that future looks incredibly promising.

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This marks Changan Automobile’s first foray into the local market. The flagship S07, a sleek, all-electric mid-sized SUV, is set to debut at the Singapore Motorshow 2025. 

With a legacy spanning over 40 years in automotive innovation, Changan Automobile has established DEEPAL in 2022.

Hadi Widjaja Tanaga, President of Premium Automobiles Group, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “As EV adoption continues to grow, we are thrilled to expand our portfolio with DEEPAL. The S07’s blend of style, intelligence, and sustainability is perfectly aligned with Singapore’s green ambitions.”

Come January 2025, the DEEPAL Showroom at 281 Alexandra Road will open its doors, offering a space for customers to immerse themselves in the brand’s offerings.

Shen Xing Hua, President of Changan Auto Southeast Asia, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “The S07 represents a bold vision for the future of mobility. Together with Premium Automobiles, we’re confident this model will resonate with Singapore’s discerning drivers.”

With the addition of DEEPAL to its repertoire, Premium Automobiles maintains its position as one of the leaders in Singapore’s EV market. 

For more information on DEEPAL and the S07, stay tuned to our coverage at the upcoming Singapore Motorshow.

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I was recently in Thailand to attend Das Treffen 9, and Porsche Thailand has very kindly provided me a car to get around Bangkok. 

To my delight, they tossed me the keys to the new electric Macan Turbo. Having driven The Macan 4 earlier this year, I was eager to have a go in the torque monster.

Power Unleashed

Let’s start with the numbers because they are nothing short of staggering. The Macan Turbo boasts a dual-motor powertrain that delivers 630hp and a frankly ludicrous 1,130Nm of torque.

To put that into context, this is an SUV that can launch itself from 0 to 100km/h in a blistering 3.1 seconds. A figure that could make even some 911s blush.

While the absence of a growling combustion engine might seem like a loss to purists, the instant surge of silent power gives you something arguably even more addictive: unrelenting, whisper-quiet thrust.

The acceleration is visceral. Tap the throttle, and you’re pinned back into the seat, the Macan translating electrons into unrelenting momentum. There’s a sense of precision in how it delivers this performance – controlled, deliberate, and utterly captivating.

Going The Distance

Porsche has packed the Macan Turbo with a 100kWh battery, which promises a range of up to 590km.

Even with lots of enthusiastic pedal pressing, I still managed about 447km of range, which is very respectable for something that sits pretty at 180km/h.

Supporting up to 270 kW DC fast charging, the battery can be juiced from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. Perfect for a quick coffee stop before you hit the road again.

The Macan doesn’t make you feel like you’re driving an EV; it makes you feel like you’re driving a Porsche. And therein lies its magic.

Defying The Laws Of Physics

At over 2,405kg, the Macan Turbo Electric is no lightweight, but you wouldn’t know it once you’re on the move.

This is where Porsche’s decades of engineering prowess shine through. The Macan feels impossibly nimble for something of its size and weight, carving corners with the agility of a car half its bulk.

The adaptive air suspension works like a charm, smoothing out imperfections while keeping the car flat and composed in spirited driving. Every turn of the wheel inspires confidence, every corner an invitation to push harder.

The Lap Of Luxury

Stepping into the Macan Turbo’s cabin is akin to entering a high-tech lounge. Dominating the dashboard is a 12.6-inch curved digital instrument cluster, flanked by a 10.9-inch central touchscreen.

For those in the passenger seat, an optional display offers control over entertainment and navigation.

The materials are as luxurious as you’d expect: soft-touch leather, brushed aluminium, and fine detailing. Even the colour matches the Provence coat on the outside.

Electrifying

The Porsche Macan Turbo is a redefinition of what an SUV can be in the electric era. It’s fast, luxurious, and dynamically engaging.

A car that reminds you why we drive, even in a world that’s going green.

Technical Specifications

Porsche Macan Turbo

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 430kW (576hp)
Torque: 1,130Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 3.3 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 260km/h
Battery Capacity: 100kWh
Drive Range: 590km (claimed)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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The ninth instalment of this iconic event, held on 17 December 2024, turned Impact Speedway into a dazzling showcase of automotive passion.

This year’s theme, “Limited Edition,” encapsulated the exclusivity and individuality that defines Porsche ownership.

A Gathering of Kindred Spirits

Upon arrival, one could immediately sense the electric atmosphere. Hundreds of Porsches from rare classics to cutting-edge modern marvels lined the venue, each either meticulously polished to perfection or caked with dirt, battle scars from their journey to Bangkok.

If you were curious, a total of 627 cars showed up and more than 3,050 Porsche enthusiasts attended. No wonder our shirt sizes were quickly sold out.

Das Treffen is predominantly a community event, a place where owners and admirers bonded over their shared obsession.

Enthusiasts from neighbouring countries added an international flair, bringing a fascinating diversity to the mix.

It’s always heartwarming to witness how cars can transcend borders and connect people. Das Treffen 9 nailed this effortlessly, with cars donning different license plates parked side by side.

Doesn’t matter which country you’re from, as long as it’s a Porsche.

Highlights That Stole the Show

The organisers didn’t just rely on the cars themselves to make an impact. Each zone at the event was a carefully crafted tribute to Porsche’s heritage and innovation, offering attendees something truly unique.

Adding a dash of artistic flair to the proceedings was Landmark No. 9, a striking installation art piece that served as both a vibrant photo backdrop and a bold statement of creativity.

Meanwhile, the Gymkhana Zone turned up the adrenaline, as drivers manoeuvred their own cars through timed challenges with precision and skill.

The Human Touch

What sets Das Treffen apart is its ability to marry the automotive with the personal. The Rooftop Lounge at Porsche HQ, an elegant two-story container setup, provided guests with a sophisticated vantage point to soak in the sights.

From here, the sprawling rows of Porsches shimmered in the late afternoon sun, a sight that would make any car enthusiast’s heart race.

This year’s collaboration between 2000 Publishing & Media Co., Ltd. and Porsche Thailand by AAS Group ensured every detail was thoughtfully executed.

No event is perfect, and Das Treffen 9 had its minor hiccups. The sheer scale of the event meant that navigating through the crowd could be challenging at times.

Additionally, while the Landmark No. 9 installation was impressive, more “photo booth” locations could be curated to spread out the queues of Porsche lining up for a shot.

That said, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise exceptional event.

Driven By Dreams

Das Treffen 9 was everything a Porsche enthusiast could hope for and more. It celebrated the marque’s storied legacy while looking ahead to its exciting future.

Whether you’re a die-hard Porsche purist or a casual admirer, this event had something to captivate every kind of car lover, and exactly what makes Porsche and its community so special.

Here’s to Das Treffen 10; it’ll have a tough act to follow.

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While it’s easy to mistake it for a 4 Series Gran Coupe with a battery, the i4 is so much more than a mere EV conversion.

Beneath its sleek silhouette lies a purpose-built electric platform that stakes its claim as a true driver’s car.

Does It Drive Like A BMW?

BMW went back to the drawing board for the i4, tweaking the floor, suspension, and even the seats to fit the electric drivetrain seamlessly. 

The eDrive35 comes with 282bhp and 400Nm of torque, giving you a century sprint time of six seconds flat.

It’s quick, and the steering is accurate, but it’s also a bit too… sterile. Even switching to the sportier settings doesn’t add the kind of visceral connection BMW enthusiasts might crave.

You will definitely round the corner the same way a 4 Series can, but will you have a smile on your face afterwards?

BMW’s one-pedal driving system is a mixed bag too. While the regenerative braking system delivers up to 265bhp of deceleration, it puts a lot of responsibility on your right foot. You can switch to the brake pedal, but the pedal itself is sharp and lacks progressive feedback.

Ironically, sticking to one-pedal mode often feels smoother and more intuitive, even if it takes some getting used to.

Something About Its Range…

The i4 eDrive35 has an interesting range conundrum. On paper BMW claims it can do 483km, but in my testing I could only irk out a theoretical maximum of 320km, even with careful driving. Once you drop past 70%, the range plummets quite drastically, so have a charger handy on your commute route.

On that note, the i4 supports up to 180kW charging, meaning you can go from flat to 80% in about 35 minutes. Just enough time for a coffee and a sandwich.  

Modern, But Not Overwhelming  

The BMW i4 greets you with a cabin that’s unmistakably BMW; refined, snug, and generally well built.

The frameless doors are a lovely touch, adding a hint of coupe elegance. The dual curved screens offer crisp graphics and deep integration with your smartphone. 

However, BMW has ditched many of its physical shortcut buttons in favour of touch controls, so adjusting driver aids or other settings on the fly can feel more distracting than intuitive.  

The seats are another area where function slightly outweighs form. They’re comfortable and supportive, but the leather feels a bit too firm, and you might wish for bigger bolsters when taking on sharp corners.  

Despite its coupe-like silhouette, the i4 offers a 470-litre boot, expandable to 1,290 litres with the seats folded flat. It beats the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 in sheer cargo space, but don’t expect luxury for rear-seat passengers.

The floor isn’t flat, thanks to the central tunnel housing the EV’s cabling, and foot space can feel a little tight.  

The Sweet Spot Of Electric Driving

The BMW i4 eDrive35 might not have the headline-grabbing performance of the M50, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a car that excels where it matters most – everyday usability, driving pleasure, and that quintessential BMW charm.  

It’s not trying to be a spaceship; it’s just a proper BMW with an electric heart.

Technical Specifications

BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 210 kW (282 bhp)
Torque: 400 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 6 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 190 km/h
Battery Capacity: 67.1 kWh
Drive Range: 483 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.15 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$328,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Contact: Performance Motors / Eurokars Auto

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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When Polestar first made headlines, it was as Volvo’s hip, younger cousin, complete with funky designs and a conscience for sustainability.

Now, with the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, the brand has taken a bold step into the world of full-size electric SUVs, but in typical Scandinavian style, it’s done so with restraint and elegance. 

Subtle But Striking

At first glance, the Polestar 3 invites attention. With a sleek 1.6-metre roofline, clean lines, and minimalist surfaces, this isn’t a car that’s trying to out-brash a Lamborghini Urus or dominate a Tesla Model X in a game of visual intimidation.

It whispers sophistication.  

Despite its subtlety, there’s a certain presence to the Polestar 3. The low-drag silhouette, complete with clever aerodynamic features like an S-duct in the bonnet, hints at both efficiency and dynamism.

It’s a big car (long, wide, and clearly premium) but it’s refreshingly unpretentious.

A Lot Of Bang For The Battery

For now, the Polestar 3 comes in two flavours – both feature dual motors and a 111kWh battery. The Long Range Dual Motor offers 360kW (483bhp) and 840Nm of torque, while the Performance Pack cranks it up to 380kW (510bhp) and 910Nm, plus gets a sprinkling of “Swedish gold” accents for extra flair.

Unlike some EVs that fizzle out after 100km/h, the Polestar 3 keeps its energy well into higher speeds. The accelerator is responsive without being overly twitchy, allowing for smooth control whether you’re pottering through town or overtaking on highways.  

Both versions will rocket to 100 in around 5 seconds, despite weighing a hefty 2.6 tonnes. The rear torque vectoring system is a standout feature, making the Polestar 3 feel lighter and more agile than its dimensions suggest.

The accurate steering and well-sorted geometry mean it corners with confidence, even on bumpy roads.

Still, the ride does lean towards the firmer side, even with dual-chamber air suspension and adaptive damping.

It’s sporty, yes, but some might wish for a bit more plushness on uneven roads. 

Practical Enough For Most Journeys

The 111kWh battery offers a real-world range of 450km to 560km in the Performance Pack variant, which is respectable for a car this size.

Charging is a mixed bag. On the upside, the Polestar 3 supports 250kW DC fast charging, so you can top up from 10% to 80% in just 32 minutes.

On the downside, 11kW AC charging will take a full 11 hours, so you’ll want to plug it in overnight and dream of a fully charged morning.  

Scandinavian Design Galore  

The Polestar 3 welcomes you with an interior that feels modern and sleek. The 14.5-inch portrait display dominates the dashboard, complemented by a smaller driver’s display and an optional head-up display.

While the big screen might look a bit “stuck on,” its crisp graphics and intuitive layout make up for it.  

What really stands out is the material quality. Polestar has embraced sustainability using a mix of recycled fabrics, PET plastics, and welfare-secured Nappa leather. The panoramic roof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of calm that’s quintessentially Scandinavian.

The seats are both comfortable and supportive, perfect for long drives. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom thanks to the car’s long wheelbase, though the sloping roofline might cramp taller occupants slightly.

Still, it’s a pleasant place to be, whether you’re driving or being driven.  

Tech Is Brilliant But Baffling

The Polestar 3’s tech game is strong but not without quirks. It runs on Android Automotive OS, which means Google integration is seamless. Apple CarPlay is not included at the moment, but Polestar claims it will eventually be provided in a future software update.

Navigation, voice control, and over-the-air updates are all here, powered by a Snapdragon processor for snappy performance.  

The issue is a lack of physical buttons. Adjusting drive modes or disabling certain driver-assist features requires navigating multiple layers of menus. Plus, this feels like an early build of the OS.

Granted, with time I’m sure over-the-air updates can solve these teething issues, but it’s a point to bear in mind if you’re one of the early adopters.

That said, the Bowers & Wilkins stereo system, with 25 speakers and Dolby Atmos, turns the Polestar 3 into a rolling concert hall. If you love your music, this is a must-have feature.  

Plenty of Space, Plus a Frunk

For a sporty SUV, the Polestar 3 is surprisingly practical. The 484-litre boot (expandable to 1,411 litres with the rear seats down) is plenty for most families.

There’s also a 32-litre frunk, perfect for stashing charging cables or smaller items.  

A Balanced, Stylish Contender 

The Polestar 3 is a fresh take on the luxury electric SUV. It’s not trying to out-Tesla Tesla or out-BMW BMW. Instead, it carves its own niche with a focus on understated design, thoughtful engineering, and eco-conscious manufacturing.  

Yes, the tech interface could be more intuitive, and the ride might feel firm for those used to cushier SUVs. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise impressive package.

If you’re tired of the usual suspects in the premium EV space and want something that stands out without shouting, the Polestar 3 deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Technical Specifications

Polestar 3 (Long Range Dual Motor Performance Pack)

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 380 kW (510 bhp)
Torque: 910 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 4.7 seconds
Top Speed: 210 km/h
Battery Capacity: 111 kWh
Drive Range: 560 km (WLTP)
Energy Consumption: 4.4 km/kWh (WLTP)

Price: S$471,000 (LRDM), S$525,000 (Performance Pack), both with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Polestar Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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