Tesla Model Y Or Polestar 3: Specs, Price & Range
There's no better place to start your search for a premium all-electric SUV than by comparing the Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y lineups. The Tesla Model Y is well-known for its range and versatility, but the automaker has a tendency to hide certain performance specs. Additionally, the SUV's minimalist cabin isn't for everyone. Meanwhile, Polestar engineers put it all out on the table, showcasing the unmistakable luxury, thrilling electric motors, and elegant design of the Polestar 3 for all to see. Join Polestar San Jose as we compare these electrified sport-utes.
The Difference Between Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y EVs at a Glance
- While Tesla engineers claim a higher maximum range, the Polestar 3 boasts more horsepower and can reach a 4.5-second 0-60 time with its available Performance Pack trim.
- The Tesla Model Y comes with two trims, while the Polestar 3 has a third performance-driven option for motorists who want a thrilling ride.
- Both SUVs have comfortable seating, but where the Tesla Model Y excels in cargo space, the Polestar 3 specializes in extraordinary passenger room.
- For high-end technology and safety systems, such as available Pilot Assist and 12 ultrasonic sensors, choose the Polestar 3.
Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y Specs
We begin by taking a look at the motors that power these SUVs. The Tesla Model Y is known for its acceleration, but the quickest Polestar 3 is 0.1 seconds faster. Tesla engineers also typically remove the rollout time, artificially speeding up the models ahead of their competitors. Factor that in, and ultimately, a 2025 Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y performance comparison favors the former.
For example, compare the base trims. At 299 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque, the Long Range Single Motor Polestar 3 feels more responsive than the 309 pound-feet of torque1 produced by the standard Tesla Model Y. Plus, the advantage only tilts more toward the Polestar 3 as you climb their trim levels. See the top performance specs for yourself in the chart below.
Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y Trims
As touched on earlier, the Polestar 3 and Tesla Model Y use their trim levels to improve performance. The Polestar 3 has three trim levels:
- Long Range Single Motor
- Long Range Dual Motor
- Long Range Dual Motor with Performance Pack
While the Tesla Model Y comes in the following two configurations:
- Long Range RWD
- Long Range AWD
The Polestar 3 also has additional technology and performance packages, so you can choose what your experience from Polestar San Jose looks like.
Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y Cargo Space & Dimensions
No matter your trim selection, you'll receive a fairly spacious vehicle. Both the Polestar 3 and Tesla Model Y provide over 180 inches of length, though the Polestar 3 is more than four inches longer. While the Tesla Model Y does have better cargo space, the storage area of the Polestar 3 is plenty for luggage, groceries, errands, and other gear. It also puts greater emphasis on passenger space – with a longer frame and slightly smaller cargo hold, there's more room for occupants in the first and second row to stretch out and relax in this luxury model.
The best way to see if the Polestar 3 offers the passenger space for your family is to contact Polestar San Jose, CA, and schedule your test drive. We'll showcase the spacious second row, let you see how much you can store in the trunk and frunk, and help you maneuver around the block with some of the safety technology we'll go over next.
Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y Tech & Safety
The final stop on our Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y comparison guide will look into the features that make these models feel so luxurious and comfortable. The Tesla Model Y is an exceptional ride, thanks to a 15.4-inch touchscreen with the Tesla Theater and eight exterior cameras. However, it does have rather lackluster safety, with a focus on the Supervised Full Self-Driving add-on.6
The Polestar 3 isn't comfortable with "good enough," though. For instance, 12 ultrasonic sensors look in every direction to detect potential obstacles, while a 14.5-inch center display and 9-inch instrument panel work together to unclutter your center and redirect focus onto the road. Rather than settle for the 15-speaker Tesla sound system, you can surround yourself with the available 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins® audio system in a Polestar 3. The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems suite helps to carefully guide you in all situations, rather than relying on still-updating self-driving software.
Additional amenities, like the available 9x3-inch Head-Up Display, gorgeous interior lighting displays with welcome/farewell arrays, and a PM2.5 particle matter sensor, create an unforgettably high-end experience.
Shop the More Luxurious Option at Polestar San Jose
While we believe either model can open a gateway into a world of premium all-electric driving, the Polestar 3 is undoubtedly the choice for the discerning driver who wants incredible, cutting-edge technology and prestigious Scandinavian style. With better performance metrics, similar range and charging specs, and a more impressive interior than the Tesla Model Y, the Polestar 3 has already made a name for itself in the burgeoning all-electric SUV market.
Now, we want to give you the opportunity to see what the next leap in EV technology feels like. Tour the Polestar 3 in our showroom, pick your preferred configuration, and hit the road with one of our representatives for a test drive to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polestar 3 vs. Tesla Model Y Comparison
How does the Polestar 3 compare to the Tesla Model Y in performance?
The Polestar 3 comfortably outperforms the Tesla Model Y. While the Tesla brand does its best to hide powertrain specifications from its audience, Car and Driver estimates that the single-motor configuration produces 295 horsepower and the available AWD setup produces 425 horsepower. The Polestar 3 starts out at 299 horsepower, but it can reach up to 517 horsepower with dual motors and the Performance Pack.
What safety features make the Polestar 3 different from the Tesla Model Y?
The Polestar 3 differs from the Tesla Model Y in its breadth of safety options. Where the Tesla Model Y is comfortable with simple options like Lane Assist and Collision Avoidance Assist, the Polestar 3 protects your investment through the grille-replacing SmartZone, intelligent lighting software, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Change Assist, all as part of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite.
How do charging times differ between the Polestar 3 and Tesla Model Y?
The Polestar 3 is a consistently excellent charger, going from 10-80% in just 30 minutes and charging at a Level 2 station in 11 hours.4 The Tesla Model Y is around the same efficiency, with a 10-80% time of roughly 21 minutes and an eight-hour home charging time.5 Either way, you can charge at a Level 3 station during lunch or at home overnight.
1This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-y/specs/2025/tesla_model-y_tesla-model-y_2025/464492
2Preliminary data. Subject to final vehicle EPA certification. Range figures based on the Polestar 3 Single Motor, Dual Motor, and Dual Motor with Performance Pack and the EPA calculated test data. This is an electric vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to convert the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including, but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery package/condition, tires, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
3Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
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 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
5Charging 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.
6This 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.
