The Polestar 2 Performance Pack has been available since launch and remains one of the most discussed options in the community. Here's what's included, how it changed across model years, and whether it justifies the cost.
What's Included
- Öhlins DFV (Dual Flow Valve) dampers — manually adjustable 20-position dampers developed specifically for the Polestar 2
- Brembo front brakes — 4-piston calipers with 375mm discs, finished in gold (Polestar's signature color)
- 20" forged aluminum wheels — lighter than the standard 19" cast wheels despite being larger
- Gold seatbelts and valve caps — subtle visual touches
- Extra power — depending on model year (see below)
Does It Add Power? It Depends on the Year
| Model year | Dual Motor (standard) | With Performance Pack |
|---|---|---|
| 2021–2022 | 300 kW / 408 hp, 660 Nm | 300 kW / 408 hp — no power increase |
| 2023 | 300 kW / 408 hp, 660 Nm | 350 kW / 476 hp, 680 Nm (software upgrade included) |
| 2024 (US, 78 kWh) | 310 kW / 421 hp, 740 Nm | 335 kW, 740 Nm |
| 2024+ (82 kWh; US from 2025) | 310 kW / 421 hp, 740 Nm | 350 kW / 476 hp, 740 Nm |
On 2021–2022 cars the extra power was a separate purchase: the Performance software upgrade (350 kW / 680 Nm), delivered over the air. It launched in Europe in November 2021 (about €1,000) and in North America in December 2022 ($1,195). It's available for Long Range Dual Motor cars with or without the Performance Pack hardware.
The 2024 update brought all-new motors — a rear-biased layout with a new rear motor and an asynchronous front motor — so a 2024+ Performance Pack car is a different powertrain from a 2021–2023 one. US 2024 Performance Pack cars (which kept the 78 kWh battery that year) make 335 kW — Polestar's US marketing quoted 455 hp — and the same power increase was offered as an OTA software upgrade for 2024 Dual Motor cars without the pack. That's actually less peak power than a 2023 Performance Pack car (350 kW), but with considerably more torque (740 vs 680 Nm). Cars with the 82 kWh battery — other markets, and US cars from 2025 — are rated at 350 kW / 476 hp.
The Case For
Handling transformation. The Öhlins dampers are the star of the package. The difference in body control, turn-in response, and high-speed stability is immediately noticeable. The car feels significantly more composed and connected.
Brake feel. The Brembo package provides better pedal feel, shorter stopping distances, and far more fade resistance. For spirited driving or track days, they're a meaningful upgrade.
Weight savings. The forged 20" wheels are actually lighter than the standard 19" cast wheels by roughly 2 kg per corner. Less unsprung mass = better ride quality and handling.
Resale value. Performance Pack cars consistently command a premium on the used market.
The Case Against
Ride quality trade-off. Even on the softest Öhlins setting, the ride is firmer than the standard suspension. On rough roads, this can become tiresome.
Tire cost. 20" tires are more expensive to replace and offer fewer all-season options. The standard 19" size has far more tire choices.
The brakes are overkill for daily driving. Regenerative braking handles 90% of your deceleration. The Brembo upgrade matters most in sustained hard use.
Cost. The package has ranged from $5,000–$6,000 depending on market and model year. That's a lot for dampers, brakes, and wheels.
Verdict
If you enjoy driving and the Polestar 2 is more than an appliance to you, the Performance Pack is the single best option you can add. The Öhlins dampers alone transform the driving experience. But if you prioritize comfort and low running costs, the standard setup is perfectly good.