Which EV Has What You Need - The Polestar 2 Or Tesla Model 3?


In our Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 comparison, we review the differences in range, charging, dimensions, and features between these all-electric vehicles for sale. Polestar is a sister brand of Volvo Cars that focuses exclusively on EV mobility. The automotive world is changing before our very eyes, and this Polestar vs. Tesla head-to-head comparison will help you drive into a zero-emissions future with incredible performance and style.

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Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Trims

The bold new Polestar 2 is now offered in three versions, each offering six metallic paint options, Pixel LED headlights, and integrated ground lighting. The Polestar 2 cabin gives you refined luxury with ventilated, power-adjustable seats, an 11.2-inch center touch screen, a Harman Kardon® Premium Sound System, ambient lighting, air filtering, wireless charging, USB ports, and a heated steering wheel.

  • 2024 Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor
  • 2024 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor
  • 2024 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor with Performance Pack

Frequently Asked Questions


The Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 are two-row all-electric sedans with five seats. However, the Tesla Model 3 is longer and wider, making it more difficult to maneuver on busy city streets or in crowded parking environments. The Tesla is 185.8 inches long and 82.2 inches wide, whereas the Polestar 2 is 181.3 inches long and 78.1 inches wide.



The Tesla Model 3 has more reported electric range than the Polestar 2, but recent real-world testing has cast some doubt on those figures.5 The Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor RWD has the automaker's best range specs at an EPA-estimated 320 miles,1 while the Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor AWD delivers an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 341 miles.3



The Polestar 2 gives you 14.4 cubic feet of standard cargo capacity (plus 1.4 cubic feet in the "frunk"), which is plenty of room to pack your gear, groceries, and anything else you might need. At the time of writing, Tesla Model 3 cargo specs have yet to be released, so we are still determining how much it could hold. Visit our dealership to test-drive a Polestar 2 and see its spacious cargo area!



Polestar and Tesla automakers have come together to ensure that Polestar vehicles produced for the 2025 model year will come with a North American Charging Standard charging port so that they can utilize Tesla Supercharging stations. Until then, adapters are available that can allow Polestar drivers to use a Tesla charger. Ask the team at DARCARS Volvo Cars if you have questions about either method.



Yes, you can charge a Polestar car using a regular outlet. However, it's not recommended as a long-term solution. This process will take exponentially longer than using a dedicated Level 2 EV Charger. When you test-drive a Polestar car at DARCARS Volvo Cars, our team can help you arrange the installation of one of these 11-kW wallboxes, which should get your vehicle fully charged overnight.


Choose one of two Tesla Model 3 editions and enjoy Stealth Grey paint. Choose from four additional paint colors for an additional fee. The Tesla Model 3, compared to other cars, does not offer the range of standard amenities you might expect. However, you will find interior features such as Voice Commands, In-Car Navigation, a 15.4-inch center touch screen, and black upholstery. Add Tesla Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving Capability for large upcharges.

  • 2024 Tesla Model 3
  • 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range
 

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Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Performance, Range & Specs

A Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 comparison shows both vehicles as performance-minded all-electric cars with impressive range and specs. Enjoy 299 horsepower and a 5.9-second 0-60 in a Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor, 421 horsepower and a 4.3-second 0-60 in a Long Range Dual Motor AWD, and a stunning 455 horsepower with a 4.1-second jump to 60 mph in a Long Range Dual Motor AWD with Performance Pack. What's more, for as stylish and sleek as these vehicles are, every Polestar 2 model can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.

A peek at Tesla Model 3 specs leaves something to be desired - namely, a proper reporting of horsepower and torque. Because we do not have access to the full, official Tesla Model 3 specs, we only know that this new vehicle is available in RWD or AWD configurations that produce a respective 5.8- and 4.2-second 0-60 rate. The Tesla Model 3 is also not rated for towing.

 

 
2024 Polestar 2 2024 Tesla Model 3
Motor - Long Range Single Motor RWD
- Long Range Dual Motor AWD
- Long Range Dual Motor AWD w/ Performance Pack
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Long Range Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
Horsepower 299 / 421 / 455 Unavailable
Torque 361 / 546 lb-ft Unavailable
Drivetrain RWD or AWD RWD or AWD
0-60 Rate 5.9 / 4.3 / 4.1 sec 5.8 / 4.2 sec
EPA-Est. Range 320 / 276 / 247 mi1 272 / 341 mi4
DC Charge Time (10-80%) 28 / 34 mins2 Unavailable
Towing Capacity 2,000 lbs3 Not Rated for Towing

Range & Charging

The 2024 Polestar 2 offers an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 247 to 320 miles,1 depending on the powertrain you select. When charging at home with an AC Wallbox charger, you can fully energize your battery in about eight hours.2

When you're out and about, the new Polestar 2 recharges from 10-80% on a public DC fast-charger in just 28-34 minutes. 2 You can easily find thousands of nationwide DC fast public charging stations and connect for quick electric power.

In stark contrast is the 2024 Tesla Model 3, whose reported EPA-estimated electric range of 272 to 341 miles, 3 depending on the powertrain, has been proven false by European real-world tests. In fact, advertised Tesla Model 3 range figures were nearly 30% lower than the automaker claims.5

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3

Charging a Tesla Model 3 is also more complicated. Although this vehicle boasts a 175-mile gain in only 15 minutes, 6 you can only achieve these results at a Tesla Supercharger station. You'll need a special charging adapter to charge at a regular public charging station, and you won't see the same results.

Looking for another electric vehicle that can rival these models' driving ranges? Check out the specs for the new Volvo XC40 Recharge electric SUV for up to an EPA-estimated 293 miles7 of single-charge driving!

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Dimensions

 
2024 Polestar 2 2024 Tesla Model 3
Exterior Length 181.3 in 185.8 in
Exterior Width (Incl. Mirrors) 78.1 in 82.2 in
Exterior Height 58 - 58.2 in 56.7 in
Wheelbase 107.7 in Not Available
Ground Clearance (Front/Rear) 5.9 / 6.6 in or 5.7 / 6.3 in 5.4 in
Standard Cargo Volume 14.4 cu ft Not Available

With considerably smaller exterior length and width dimensions, the 2024 Polestar 2 will be much easier to park on city streets or in tight garages. At only 181.3 inches long and 78.1 inches wide with thrilling engine performance, this vehicle also gives you 5.7 to 5.9 inches of front ground clearance and 6.3 to 6.6 inches of rear ground clearance to keep your undercarriage protected.

A cursory Tesla Model 3 size comparison reveals this vehicle to be larger and potentially more difficult to park. At 185.8 inches long and 82.2 inches wide, the Tesla Model 3 has a ground clearance of only 5.4 inches, meaning you'll have a more difficult time not catching your Tesla vehicle on speed bumps or any other obstacles in your path.

Pack for weekday commutes or weekend road trips with the Polestar 2 and its 14.4 cubic feet of standard cargo space - plus an additional 1.4 cubic feet in the front of the car, commonly known as the "frunk." Unfortunately, the Tesla Model 3 specs for cargo dimensions have not been released.

Gabe Mathy
31.05.2024

Fantastic experience buying a Polestar here. Calm thorough walkthrough of vehicle with Paola, explained everything and set up my phone to link with the car. Paperwork was effortless with Firooz and Peter, supported by Nate and Haman. There's a whole team to support you at Darcars Volvo, highly recommend stopping by.

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1Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov

2Charging time measured from 10-80% capacity using a DC 205 kW charger. Charging time and range target based on Long range Single motor variant and EPA standard. This is an electric vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to translate the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). EPA-estimated combined xx city/xx highway/xx combined MPGe figures. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov

3When properly equipped.

4Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov

5This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-lowers-range-estimates-us-regulators-tighten-vehicle-test-rules-2024-01-09/

6Charging times may vary and are influenced by several factors, including but not limited to outdoor temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, battery condition, and the overall condition of the vehicle. For precise information on charging times for a specific vehicle model, please contact our dealership.

7Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.