The 2026 Polestar 4 is officially on sale in the US, priced slightly higher than originally promised

Polestar has begun US sales of its Polestar 4 crossover SUV as a 2026 model, with prices starting at $56,400. The vehicle, initially slated for Chinese production, will now be manufactured in Busan, South Korea, with deliveries expected to begin this fall; the Long Range Dual Motor variant boasts a 0-60 mph acceleration of 3.7 seconds, making it Polestar's fastest production model to date.

Analysis

Polestar (PSNY) has officially commenced US sales for its Polestar 4 crossover SUV, now designated as a 2026 model, with a starting MSRP of $56,400, a slight increase from the previously announced $54,900 for the 2025 model. This launch follows a significant strategic pivot: production for North American units has shifted from China to Busan, South Korea, a decision likely influenced by the looming threat of US tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles and a recent CEO transition. Consequently, the initial lineup of eight variants has been streamlined to five, with the original entry-level Long Range Single Motor trim (previously $54,900) being discontinued, contributing to the higher base price. Despite these adjustments, Polestar highlights the 4's positioning in the premium performance D-SUV segment, with its Long Range Dual Motor variant achieving 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, making it the company's fastest production model. Customers who placed orders for the 2025 model will receive a price-protected 2026 version. Production in South Korea is scheduled to begin this summer, with initial customer deliveries anticipated in the fall, representing a delay from the original late 2024 projection. This revised strategy, alongside the US-assembled Polestar 3, aims to strengthen Polestar's offering in the competitive North American SUV market.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors should evaluate the strategic shift in Polestar 4 production to South Korea as a de-risking measure against potential US tariffs on Chinese imports, while also considering any new logistical or supply chain complexities.
• Assess the impact of the streamlined variant lineup and the adjusted starting price of $56,400 on the Polestar 4's competitiveness and market penetration in the premium D-SUV segment, particularly against established EV offerings.
• Monitor Polestar's execution on the revised production timeline, with South Korean manufacturing starting summer 2024 and deliveries in fall 2024, as adherence to this schedule will be critical for credibility and sales momentum.
• Consider the company's ability to manage operational hurdles, as evidenced by the model year change, production relocation, and revised launch timelines, and how these factors might influence future product rollouts and financial performance.