Polestar 2 vs Tesla Model 3
Which EV do you prefer?
Although Tesla's Model 3 has been available since 2019 and the Polestar 2 hit roads in 2021, these two electric luxury cars will square off against each other in terms of price, performance and range. But what are the big differences between the two EVs? Will you go for the "smooth" design of the Tesla Model 3 or for the "badass" look of the Polestar 2?
Polestar 2
More than just a “Tesla Killer”, the Polestar 2 handles and drives with real sophistication. Recognisably Volvo design on the outside, premium interior with all the safety features you could want and a state of the art infotainment system.
Tesla Model 3 (long range)
The Tesla Model 3 takes everything you love about Tesla’s in a more affordable package. The acceleration power is impressive, though the range is significantly less. All in all, a very appealing electric option for drivers who want a luxury sedan for a smaller price tag.
Range and power
With the Polestar 2, Volvo has its first electric vehicle with some impressive range, clocking in at 482 km WLTP on a full 78-kWh lithium-ion battery. Although less than the Long Range Tesla Model 3, which boasts 580 km WLTP range, it is more than the standard battery Model 3. In terms of power, the Tesla seems to have the upperhand. The Polestar 2 gets a mighty 400 horsepower from its dual electric motors and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than five seconds.
However, the dual-motor Tesla Model 3 reaches 450 hp and accelerates to 100km/h in an impressive 3.3 seconds. Charging-wise, the Polestar 2 has a charge rate of 150 kW, compared to the Model 3’s charging rate of 250 kW. That means that, depending on connection and socket, charging your Tesla Model 3 either at home or on the road will usually take ⅓ less of the time. However, you can charge the Polestar 2 from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes with fast charging. In addition, its new MY24 model year to come will include the arrival of new electric motors, more powerful batteries with a longer range - now up to 635 km (WLTP), and a new rear-wheel drive version.
Design and tech
It’s clear that the design teams behind these two sedans have taken very different approaches. Take one look at the Polestar 2, and the strong Volvo DNA is immediately clear. Especially the headlights and typical vertical "grille" feel familiar as well as the squared-off nose. In contrast, the Model 3 has the rounded front / end design preferred by Tesla and instead of a grille, the focus is on the cat-like headlights.
The Polestar has conventional door handles but Tesla has opted for high-tech hidden handles, perfectly fitting in the door. Both electric cars have an expansive glass roof. The Tesla 3 proves that less is more with the largely button-free interior which revolves around the landscape 15-inch touchscreen display. The Polestar’s high-quality interior is outfitted with vegan textiles as standard, though a ventilated vegan leather option is also available. A big plus for Polestar 2 is the integration of Android OS and, as a result, embedded Google services such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store. Both cars use an iPhone app instead of a key.
Conclusion
The Polestar 2 evolved into a full-fledged competitor to the Tesla Model 3, which until recently dominated the mid-range electric vehicle market. With its robust design, range of 482 km, Google infotainment system and competitive pricing, the Polestar 2 is not only a competitor to Tesla, but can also challenge the fossil-powered sedans and hatchbacks in the middle and luxury class.
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