Polestar 4 vs Zeekr 001: which one to choose? [Rivalz]

In 2025, we are expanding our test drive section with Rivalz, a new format designed to compare similar cars and help you make the right choice. The first two protagonists are the Polestar 4 and the Zeekr 001.

These two vehicles have a lot in common. Not only because they belong to brands under the same Geely umbrella, but also because they share the SEA platform, the same powertrains, and even the production facility in Ningbo, China. However, they differ significantly in philosophy and driving dynamics.

Do you want to know more? Read our Zeekr 001 test drive and Polestar 4 test drive.

Design and dimensions

Aesthetics are always subjective, but I believe the Polestar 4 stands out for its refinement. It has a much stronger presence, especially at the front with its large Dual Blade headlights, illuminated logo, and smooth, flowing lines. The rear, with no rear window and thin light strips, is particularly striking, especially at night. The Performance Pack version adds even more appeal, thanks to Brembo and Polestar Engineered customizations.

The Zeekr 001, on the other hand, is bulkier. It’s a shooting brake measuring 4.97 meters in length compared to 4.83 meters for the Polestar, giving it an advantage in interior space. Its design is certainly modern, but perhaps less refined than the Polestar 4 or even the newer Zeekr models like the 007 and 007 GT, designed by Stefan Sielaff, which have a more harmonious look. However, the Zeekr 001 compensates with a traditional rear window, whereas the Polestar’s cameras, while an interesting experiment, are far from practical.

Winner: Polestar 4

Interiors

Inside, the two cars are quite similar, adopting nearly the same layout. However, the Zeekr 001 appears to have a more refined finish. It features a matte instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, while the Polestar 4 opts for a glossy, floating-style screen, which isn’t as aesthetically pleasing. Both cars have a 15.4-inch touchscreen in the center and high-quality materials.

The Zeekr stands out for its Alcantara-metal combination, while Polestar focuses on sustainability, using 100% recycled PET or optional traceable leather. The Zeekr 001 also has a better-organized center console, while the Polestar 4 barely fits two cup holders and a smartphone, which tends to slide around since the surface isn’t non-slip. In terms of space, the 001 feels higher and brighter, thanks to its rear window and slightly longer wheelbase.

Winner: Zeekr 001

Software and User Experience

The two brands take completely different approaches to software. Zeekr 001 runs on a proprietary OS, developed in-house with partners like HERE Maps for navigation (read more here). This system is evolving but still needs improvement.

Polestar, like Volvo, relies on Google. The interface is intuitive and user-friendly, functioning like a standard Android tablet with Google services integrated, including Maps and additional app downloads. Polestar Charge is also a major advantage, as it’s currently the only system natively compatible with Tesla Superchargers.

However, both vehicles lean too much towards the Tesla-style approach, reducing physical buttons to a minimum and handling most controls electronically or through the steering wheel. Even opening the passenger glovebox requires navigating the touchscreen, which is frustrating. Yes, voice commands exist, but they are rarely as efficient as physical buttons.

Winner: Polestar 4

Performance and range

Both cars share the same powertrain: 544 hp from dual electric motors and a 100 kWh battery, providing about 580 km of range (for the Zeekr Privilege AWD and Polestar 4 Dual Motor). With the single-motor 272 hp version, range increases to 620 km for both.

Polestar 4 offers a more realistic range, as its energy consumption is around 20 kWh/100 km, despite its weight and power.

The driving feel is where they truly diverge. The Zeekr 001 is softer and more comfort-focused, typical of many Chinese EVs. Its air suspension makes little difference between settings, whereas the Polestar 4 delivers a more engaging drive. It has a slightly understeering setup, some body pitch, but remains sportier and more dynamic. Its ABS and One Pedal Drive system perform better, and steering feel is more precise.

That said, parking the Polestar 4 is frustrating due to its camera system. While the Zeekr 001’s small rear window still provides better visibility, its ADAS system is too sensitive, with overly aggressive alerts that can be annoying.

Winner: Polestar 4

Charging capabilities

Although the Polestar 4 benefits from Polestar Charge, it disappoints in DC fast charging. The SEA platform supports 800V, and Zeekr is taking full advantage with an upcoming 001 update that will feature over 500 kW charging, reducing 10-80% charge time to just 12 minutes.

Currently, however, both are limited to 200 kW, with charging times around 25-30 minutes. Polestar does not seem interested in introducing an 800V version, which gives the Zeekr 001 a big advantage—especially considering it costs less and comes better equipped in the base package.

Winner: Zeekr 001