Polestar 2 vs Tesla Model 3: From An Actual Owner
Polestar 2 VS Tesla Model 3: How do these top tier EVs compare?
Tesla seems to be the de facto choice when it comes to fully electric vehicles. Previously, there were not many options for an EV, but recently the competition has increased. With ever-rising gas prices, potential buyers are doing their research on what electric vehicle is best for them. Among these competitions is the Polestar 2. Despite having significant differences, the Tesla Model 3 and the Polestar 2 are some of the best options in their respective segments.
Due to various aspects of my life, I ended up owning both of these vehicles. In March 2021 I purchased a used 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range with Full Self Driving. Then in April 2022, I purchased a new 2022 Polestar 2 dual motor with Pilot Package. I drive a large amount, with an average of 100 miles a day during the work week. Most of this driving is interstate highways, with 10-15% back mountain roads.
Since I have owned both of these cars for a decent amount of time, below are some key differences between the two highly sought-after EVs and various things I like and don't like based on my specific trim and model year.
Interior and Exterior
Tesla Model 3
Interior
Telsa has seemed to have pioneered minimalistic interior design in the EV market. It provides an open-air interior design as well as soft leather touchpoints throughout the car. Almost all functions are controlled from a large landscape touchscreen located in the center of the dash. This includes your speedometer, warning lights, notifications, and climate control, among almost everything else.
The only physical buttons are located on the steering wheel and the steering wheel stalks. The traditionally located steering wheel stalks operate as a "gear" selector, AutoPilot control, turn signals, and headlights. The physical steering wheel controls are used to adjust the Traffic-Aware Cruise Control(TACC) speed and following distance, as well as adjust media.
Having all functions on the touchscreen can take some getting used to. It seems as though a lot of people would prefer to have more physical controls rather than strictly controlled via the touchscreen. I have found that while that is true, you also get used to the touchscreen-only rather quickly.
In the 2018 Model 3, they used high gloss piano black plastics for the center console which quickly becomes scuffed and fingerprint laden almost immediately. Fortunately, in later year models, Tesla has begun to use higher quality non-piano black plastics that look significantly better in my opinion.
Otherwise, there is ample storage all throughout the vehicle. Tesla states the luggage capacity to be 15 cubic feet and seats 5. Between the frunk and large trunk with a sub-trunk, I have not had too many issues with storage.
One issue that does stick out to me is dash rattles and wind noise on the interior of the Model 3. Since the chassis is already so quiet due to the nature of it being an EV, dash rattles become even more apparent. Combine that with not the highest quality material, and you introduce frequent dash rattles. Mine mainly originate from the fake wood dash and the steering wheel shaft. That being said, the rattles are not deafening, but annoying nonetheless.
Exterior
The Model 3 has a flowing body with little sharp angles and a far softer design style. It comes in at a length of 184.8 inches, a width of 82.2 inches with mirrors, and a height of 56.8 inches while providing a ground clearance of ~5.5 inches.
Depending on the year of Model 3 the build quality of the car can vary widely. In the first few years of production, it was not uncommon to have rather large panel gaps, dash rattles, and wind noise. For the most part, Tesla has improved in this area over the years. I am fortunate enough to have very few panel gaps, although I did have Tesla service adjust the trunk that was off slightly. This was fixed free of charge.
Polestar 2
Interior
Polestar has not followed directly in the footsteps of Tesla when it comes to the interior of their first EV. Although the interior is on the minimalistic side, it definitely does not have an open-air feel like Teslas provides. Instead, The Polestar 2 has a different atmosphere than a Model 3, which is more like entering the cockpit of your own private jet. When you settle into your seat, you can easily access all the equipment and physical buttons needed to pilot your Polestar 2.
The polestar has a Polestar illuminated traditional gear selector in the center console as well as physical buttons for media controls, and front and rear defrosters. This leads up to a portrait-mounted 11.2-inch touch screen that controls a large portion of the car. The climate is controlled from the touchscreen however, unlike the model 3, the vents are able to be physically moved as compared to software controls on the model 3.
The Polestar 2 also has a 12.3-inch display that takes place of the analog gauge clusters in the traditional location. Similar to the Model X and S, this display will show you the expected information such as speed, range, and even navigation, freeing up the main infotainment to display other screens.
The center console and steering wheel buttons have fallen victim to high gloss piano black interior plastics that just feel low quality after use. Some people are even taking to wrapping their center consoles to alleviate this problem. The interior of the car is made entirely of vegan materials. This material, instead of providing a soft touch experience like the Model 3, it comes off as more abrasive even though it is of higher quality materials.
Although the cockpit-like interior design is nice in providing a driver-oriented experience, the awkwardly large center console can be a point of contention. The center console protrudes slightly into the space of the occupant. Depending on your seating position, this may cause your knees to uncomfortably bounce off of the sharp corner of the center console. I personally sit low enough that this does not affect me, however, I have had many passengers complain about this very issue. Even though the center console is awkwardly large, it does not provide a large amount of storage either.
The Polestar 2 has a generally solid interior. Everything feels very well put together. There are little to no gaps in the panels and the materials used are of good quality. There are a few rattles that have been plaguing this car. I have seen multiple reports of noise coming from the A and B pillars and seat belt assembly. I personally experience both on non-smooth roads. It is easily drowned out by music, but still an annoyance. Apparently, Polestar Spaces are aware, and it is easily resolved, but not without having to take the panel apart.
Exterior
Where the Model 3 is more curved and soft, the Polestar 2 has a more boxy, yet sharp feel to it with sharp corners and creases. The rear end puts me into a scene out of Cyberpunk, with the continuous LED brake lights. While at the front of the vehicle are Thor's Hammer LED headlights that provide a unique look that adds to the aesthetic.
It comes in at 181.3 inches long, 78.1 inches wide with mirrors, and 58.2 inches tall. The ground clearance is about 6 inches. Build quality is not a concern with the Polestar 2. There are no panel gaps or build deviations. The doors have a solid thud when closed unlike the Model 3 giving it a high-quality feel.
Efficiency and Range
Tesla Model 3
It is obvious that Tesla spent a solid amount of time in a wind tunnel designing the Model 3 to be as aerodynamic as possible. Without really thinking about driving efficiently, the Model 3 is able to easily get roughly 26.6 kWh/100mi, mainly driving the highway.
When new, the 2018 Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive was quoted as having a 310-mile range. Since all batteries degrade over time, I see estimates of roughly 285-290 miles of range. I generally do not get below 5% state of charge, so I have not tested the real-world range, however, I would guess the estimates are pretty close from my experiences.
Polestar 2
In the roughly 6000 miles I have driven the Polestar 2, I have averaged about 34.3 kWh/100mi driving similar roads as the Model 3. This can be attributed to the less aerodynamic design and the roughly 600 pounds of additional weight. I have been able to get better efficiency if I am conscious of my throttle input and actively try and get better efficiency, though.
The 2022 Polestar 2 dual motor was released with a quoted 249-mile range. Although range tests have seemingly resulted in higher than reported EPA ranges.
Charging and Charging Networks
Tesla Model 3
Tesla uses their own proprietary connector in the United States. With a built-in button to open the charging port, the lightweight charger is small and easy to use. I have a NEMA 14-50 receptacle connected to a 40 amp breaker in my garage. This allows me to charge at roughly 29 miles per hour at 32 amps, which is the mobile charger's maximum. Tesla sells a Wall Connector, which is a hardwired 48 amp compatible charger that would maximize your home charging capabilities to upwards of 44 miles per hour.
When it comes to electric vehicles, a big question that comes to mind is the charging infrastructure. There will be situations where at-home charging will not be enough for the distance you are required to drive. Knowing this would need to be accounted for, Tesla launched the Tesla Supercharger network back in 2012. Since then, they have continued to expand their network and as of 2022, there are roughly 1,447 Tesla Superchargers locations across the United States.
I have been using the Supercharger network since I purchased my Model 3 and have run into very few issues, save for the occasional broken stall or small queue. With charging speeds of up to 175 miles in 15 minutes that usually gives me just enough time to go to the bathroom and grab a bite to eat.
Polestar 2
Polestar uses the more standardized CCS connector for its charging needs. CCS connectors, which has an AC and DC intake port integrated and are what is most commonly found on non-tesla EVs. I am still able to utilize the same NEMA 14-50 receptacle at home, however, at 32 amps the Polestar 2 is only able to charge at roughly 22-25 miles per hour in my experience. That being said the included mobile charger does support up to 48 amps, unlike Tesla's mobile charger which is a maximum of 32 amps. 48 amps would allow for faster at-home charging.
Polestar does not have its own dedicated charging infrastructure like Tesla does. Instead, they take advantage of using the standardized CCS adapter and utilizing third-party networks such as Electrify America and Chagrepoint(there are more than just that). I have only used non-home-based charging once with the Polestar 2. I go into more detail here, however, Electrify America provided an adequate experience for the first time using their network. The only gripe I have is the CCS cable is large and bulky compared to the Tesla charger.
Driving Impressions
Tesla Model 3
Almost all EVs have similar driving attributes. The instantaneous acceleration paired with the smoothness of a single "gear transmission" are common traits. The Model 3 is no different. The Long Range AWD with acceleration boost will reach 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. It is never not entertaining to punch the go pedal in this car.
The Model 3 does not feel like a 2-ton vehicle, even when throwing it through corners. The planted grip gives you the confidence to take that corner even faster than before.
The place this car really excels for me in driving experience is simply highway driving. It is a significantly comfortable long-trip vehicle. The suspension is not too soft to not provide the expected feedback but still provides a smooth ride when the road is rough. Couple the smooth ride with the best-in-class driver-assistance systems and it makes highway driving a breeze.
Polestar 2
The chassis provides a responsive feel when turning into those curvy bits of road. The dual motor drivetrain then propels you with 408 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque out of the corner. Every time it is intoxicating.
The dual motor achieves a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds. But the even more addicting piece is while around tight corners. Even when fitted with its standard Michelin Primacy 4 tires, the compact Swedish car maintains a planted position and provides outstanding grip.
At 05:00 in the morning, the Polestar 2 can also provide a peaceful and easy commute when you are looking to slow things down. With the Pilot package, you get access to Volvo's Pilot Assist function. This safety assistance program makes driving on the highway and long commutes a cakewalk with minimal driving fatigue. I did a longer review on that here.
Price and Availability
Tesla Model 3
The price of Teslas has skyrocketed in the past few years. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range is currently upwards of $58k however it was selling at about $48k in March 2021. Regrettably, at this time, the Model 3 Long Range is unavailable until the 2023 model year.
Tesla operates with direct sales which makes the buying process significantly easier than dealing with dealerships. When I purchased my Model 3, everything was done via the online portal. I did not speak with anyone until I was ready to schedule a pickup. I was delighted with the entire process.
Polestar 2
The base model of the 2022 Polestar 2 dual motor had a starting price of $49,900. There are three packages available for add-ons. With all 3 packages on the dual motor, it would reach almost $69K. Placing an order now, Polestar is projecting deliveries of November 2022 or later.
Polestar, being a relatively new brand, is also trying to operate with direct sales, however, at this time, it feels more like a hybrid experience. When I purchased mine, almost everything was done via the online portal, but all the paperwork was done at a Volvo dealership during pickup. I go into more detail here about my purchasing experience.
Verdict
Polestar 2 vs Tesla Model 3 is difficult for me to pick a true winner as both cars excel so well in their own ways. I think Tesla has the better software on all fronts. But I think Polestar wins in design, performance, and quality. They are both really great cars. I am happy and thankful that I have the luxury of owning both. It would be difficult to choose between the two. I would not want to give up the additional range and astonishing driver-assistance systems in the Tesla, but I love the way the Polestar 2 looks and drives.