Compare The Polestar 2 Vs. Tesla Model 3 Specs & More

The all-electric luxury vehicle market is competitive, and a comparison between the Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 reveals that only one takes the crown. The Tesla Model 3 is known for its range, as well as its simplistic interior with a focus on non-physical buttons. Meanwhile, the standard 476-horsepower dual-motor powertrain, the 38.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, and a wide array of standard convenient features make the difference between Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 quite clear – the Polestar 2 is the preferred model.

We at Polestar San Jose are proud of this EV's prestigious reputation. Let's visit the other aspects that make the Polestar 2 the best option for any driver.

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Specs

We begin our 2025 Polestar 2 vs. 2025 Tesla Model 3 analysis by looking at the powertrains. The Polestar 2 keeps your ride consistent with a single dual motor long-range AWD powertrain, while the Tesla Model 3 has the choice between two Long Range models and a Performance one.

While the Tesla Model 3 tries to boast a responsive performance, Tesla does what it can to hide the baseline horsepower and torque specs from their customers. Estimates from third-party sources like CarBuzz list the base strength of the Tesla Model 3 at 295 horsepower¹ – nearly 200 less than the standard horsepower of the Polestar 2. In addition, the Polestar 2 is always an AWD model (guaranteeing more control and stability on the road), while you have to upgrade to an AWD option for your Tesla Model 3.

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Trims

As we mentioned earlier, the Polestar 2 is set with a single trim, the Long Range Dual Motor. The Tesla Model 3 has three options: Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD, and Performance. This is because the Polestar 2 doesn't hide its luxurious driving experience or prestigious luxury options behind specific trim options; instead of putting its best horsepower behind paywalls, you'll always receive the optimal performance (with the Performance Package) when you purchase a 2025 Polestar 2.

There is an optional upgrade package for Polestar 2 models. The Nappa Upgrade adds ventilated, Nappa leather front seats to your EV for those hot California summers. But, unlike the Tesla Model 3, that is the only optional equipment package.

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Tech & Safety

In terms of technology, while the Tesla Model 3 might look flashy, the Polestar 2 is state-of-the-art and packed with luxury-grade amenities, ensuring your comfort on every stretch of the road. The Polestar 2 comes with Harman Kardon® premium sound by default, while the Tesla Model 3 requires upgrades to get similar sound quality. The Tesla Model 3 boasts a 15.4-inch touchscreen, but it also gets rid of the physical buttons that you've been accustomed to. The Polestar 2 has an 11.2-inch screen, but still utilizes a central console area and a familiar gear selector with a backlit symbol.

The Polestar 2 – available for a test drive at Polestar San Jose – also comes standard with a monumental list of Driver Assistance software.

• ADAS: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Information with steer assist
• Driver Steering Recommendation
• Electronic Stability Control
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation
• Pilot Assist
• Lane Change Assist

• Regenerative Stability Control
• Road Sign Information
• Trailer Stability Assist
• Understeer Control Logic
• Run-Off Road Mitigation
• Speed Limiter
• Traction Control
• Trailer Stability Assist
• Understeer Control Logic

Meanwhile, for the best driver assistance programs of the Tesla Model 3, you'll want to purchase the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) package, which is notorious for its inconsistent performance.³

Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 Cargo Space & Dimensions

The final stop on our Polestar 2 vs. Tesla Model 3 journey is size. While the Polestar 2 is a smaller vehicle, it also features a much more sizable cargo area – at a maximum of 38.7 cubic feet, compared to the Tesla Model 3 cargo limit of 24.1 cubic feet.

Not only is the Polestar 2 more cargo-efficient than the Tesla Model 3 while being 4.6 inches shorter, but it has competitive front-row and rear-row specifications (as estimated by Car and Driver).² When you test-drive this model at Polestar San Jose, you'll experience its versatility and comfortable front row for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Polestar 2 compare to the Tesla Model 3 in performance?

The standard Long Range Dual Motor powertrain of the Polestar 2 allows it to stay competitive with all but the highest-end variants of the Tesla Model 3. At 476 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque, the Polestar 2 leaves the initial two Tesla Model 3 variants behind. The only one that can surpass the four-second 0-60 mph time of the Polestar 2 is the Performance level.

How do charging options compare between the Polestar 2 and the Tesla Model 3?

Thanks to newly available NACS adapters and a network of compatible CCS stations, the Polestar 2 is capable of charging anywhere that a Tesla Model 3 can. Tesla Model 3 owners must purchase an expensive adapter to do the same. Both models also share easy-to-install home wallboxes that usually charge you to full overnight, leaving you with their maximum range as you get ready for work.⁴

Why choose the Polestar 2 over the Tesla Model 3 in the Bay Area?

The primary reasons to choose a Polestar 2 over the Tesla Model 3 are its versatility and style. The Polestar 2, despite being shorter than the Tesla Model 3 by over 4 inches, boasts a cargo volume of 38.7 cubic feet with your rear seats folded down. The Scandinavian design philosophy is another highlight, giving you a subdued yet classy cabin, compared to the modern, screen-focused Tesla EV.

¹This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://carbuzz.com/cars/tesla/model-3/2025/specs-and-trims/

²Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/polestar/polestar-2/specs

³This available feature requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicle autonomous. The activation and use of these features are dependent on achieving reliability far in excess of human drivers as demonstrated by billions of miles of experience, as well as regulatory approval, which may take longer in some jurisdictions. As these self-driving features evolve, your car will be continuously upgraded through over-the-air software updates.

⁴Charging 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 81 city/73 highway/77 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