Polestar's bread-and-butter model, the Polestar 2, has been considerably reworked for the 2024 model year and arrives with fresh styling, improved performance and range, and more standard features than ever.

Like the recently-revised Volvo C40 and XC40 Recharge, the single-motor Polestar 2 now sends power to the rear wheels instead of the front. Thanks to the newly-developed permanent magnet motor and a silicon carbide inverter, total outputs have been boosted to 299 horsepower and 361 lb-ft. That's a considerable increase over the outgoing FWD model's 231 hp and 243 lb-ft.

This has reduced the 0 to 60 mph sprint by 1.1 seconds, allowing the base model to hit the benchmark speed in 5.9 seconds.

While the dual-motor variant retains its all-wheel-drive setup, Polestar has given it a rear-drive bias which is said to improve driving pleasure and performance. Here, the rear motor is the main motivator, supported by the asynchronous motor on the front axle.

Where the old model produced 408 hp and 467 lb-ft, the new system provides 421 hp and 546 lb-ft. The dual motor can now hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. When possible, the front motor can be disengaged to aid efficiency. Should you require extra power, it engages instantly.

Those with a penchant for speed can spring for the optional Performance Pack. This boosts power to 455 hp and further reduces the 0 to 60 mph sprint time to 4.1 seconds.

"The updated Polestar 2 is an even more playful and agile car, retaining its compactness and complete sense of control, while at the same time becoming more mature with added comfort," said Polestar's Joakim Rydholm.

Perhaps more important than performance are the projected range improvements. The long-range dual-motor derivative is said to offer up to 270 miles, while the single-motor variant has an impressive 300-mile range. The latter also gains a larger 82 kWh battery and can be charged at speeds of up to 205 kW DC.

Despite the increased power and larger batteries, Polestar says carbon emissions for models with the 82 kWh battery have been reduced by 1.1 tons due to improved cell chemistry.

The exterior of the 2024 Polestar 2 also benefits from a subtle nip/tuck. The crossover borrows the SmartZone from the larger Polestar 3; it replaces the 2's "grille" with a panel that houses important safety features, including the mid-range radar and the front-facing camera.

Performance Pack models now receive 20-inch forged alloy wheels. Should you opt for the standard 19-inch items, Polestar will happily wrap them up in Michelin all-season tires.

Polestar has also used this opportunity to bolster the crossover's standard equipment. In North America, the long-range dual-motor models now ship with Pilot Pack, which includes cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and more. Elsewhere, Driver Awareness features form part of the standard spec, along with a wireless phone charger.

In selecting the Performance Pack, the Plus Pack is automatically equipped. The Performance Pack doesn't just bring extra power. Ohlins Dual Flow Valve dampers, Brembo Brakes, and gold seat belts all form part of the bundle.

The automaker has not mentioned revised pricing but says the 2024 Polestar 2 is now available to order, with deliveries expected to commence later this year. As a reminder, the 2023 model has a starting price of $49,800, but that doesn't include any options or accessories.

These updates will hopefully boost the Polestar 2's image and keep it as popular as it currently is. The automaker has plans to introduce a new electric model every year, with the desirable Polestar 6 electric roadster expected to debut in 2026.