The Tesla Model 3 has been a popular choice for those seeking an affordable electric vehicle (EV) that also offers a significant range. However, it’s not without competition. Over the years, several impressive electric sedans have entered the market, such as the Polestar 2.
Polestar has earned a solid reputation for building high-quality cars, even though the company itself is relatively new. This makes sense since Polestar is owned by Volvo and shares many design features with Volvo cars.
So, how does the all-electric Polestar 2 stack up against the Tesla Model 3? And which one should you consider buying? Let’s take a closer look.
The first thing you’ll notice about these cars is their design, and they do look quite different from each other. The Tesla Model 3 resembles other Tesla models with its flush door handles, similar color options, and curved roofline. Despite its design aging a bit, it still looks sleek and modern.
On the other hand, the Polestar 2 boasts a more angular and blocky design compared to the Model 3. It incorporates design elements from modern Volvo cars, such as a squared-off light bar at the back and slim front headlights. The Polestar 2 comes in six more muted color options than the Model 3.
In general, both cars offer a modern and sleek appearance. Since design preference is subjective, there’s no clear winner here.
For the interiors, the differences continue. The Model 3 maintains its minimalist approach inside, with most functions controlled through a large 15.4-inch display. This screen manages everything, from climate control to navigation and audio. The car’s upholstery is faux leather, available in all black or a black-and-white combination.
The Polestar 2’s interior is a bit busy in comparison, featuring more physical controls to make for easy access without needing to navigate through menus. It has a large vertically-aligned screen loaded with Google’s Android Automotive system, coupled with a digital instrument cluster. Unlike the Model 3, the Polestar 2 supports CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use them instead of the built-in system if you prefer. Although the Model 3 doesn’t support CarPlay or Android Auto, it still offers one of the best software experiences available in cars today.
Ultimately, interior preferences are also a matter of personal taste, so it’s another tie.
When it comes to performance, both cars deliver the spirited drive that electric vehicles are known for, but they don’t perform the same.
The Tesla Model 3 is available in three versions: a standard rear-wheel-drive model, an all-wheel-drive Long Range model, and a Performance model, which is also all-wheel-drive. The standard model has a top speed of 140 mph and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Opt for the Performance model, and it accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars on the road.
The Polestar 2 isn’t slow, but it doesn’t match the Model 3’s capabilities. It comes in two versions: a long-range single-motor rear-wheel-drive model and a long-range dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant. The single-motor version hits 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, while the dual-motor model reaches that speed in 4.3 seconds, which is fast, but not as quick as the Model 3 Performance.
In terms of speed and acceleration, the Model 3 takes the lead.
Range is crucial for any electric car, and in this department, the two cars are quite close.
The standard Model 3 offers 272 miles of range, with the Long Range model going up to an impressive 333 miles, and the Performance model delivering 315 miles. All variants can charge at 250 kW, allowing them to gain 200 miles in about 15 minutes.
The Polestar 2 also performs well when it comes to range. Interestingly, the cheaper single-motor version offers a better range of 320 miles, while the dual-motor variant provides 276 miles. However, it can only charge at 150 kW, taking 35 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
While both cars offer comparable range, the Model 3’s faster charging speed gives it an edge.
Both Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 are readily available for purchase. However, their prices differ depending on the model you choose. The Tesla Model 3 starts at $41,240 for the standard model and goes up to $54,240 for the Performance model. Meanwhile, the Polestar 2 starts at a higher $48,900 for the single-motor version and reaches $54,300 for the dual-motor variant.
In terms of pricing, the Model 3 is the clear winner.
While the Polestar 2 is undoubtedly a great car, it ultimately falls short of competing with the Model 3 in most areas. The Tesla Model 3 offers faster acceleration, a slightly longer range, and quicker charging speeds, all at a lower price. If you’re looking for an excellent electric sedan, the Model 3 is probably the better choice for most buyers.