Electric vehicles are growing in popularity thanks to their instant torque, quiet ride, and lack of tailpipe emissions. For driving enthusiasts seeking an exciting EV, the Polestar 2 Performance and Tesla Model 3 Performance are two of the top options on the market today. But how do these high-performance EVs stack up? This in-depth comparison examines all aspects of these stellar sedans to help determine which is the better buy depending on your priorities.
Polestar and Tesla: Background
Before diving into the vehicles themselves, let’s quickly look at Polestar and Tesla as companies.
Polestar was founded in 2017 as a standalone performance brand spun off from Volvo. The company is jointly owned by Volvo Car Group and its parent company Geely. Polestar aims to bring cutting-edge electric vehicle technology and sustainability to the luxury performance market.
Tesla needs little introduction as the pioneer of electric vehicles. Founded in 2003, Tesla’s mission has always been to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. With sleek, technology-packed designs, Tesla has made EVs cool and brought them into the mainstream.
Polestar 2 Performance and Tesla Model 3 Performance Overview
The Polestar 2 Performance is an electric performance fastback based on the dual motor Polestar 2 sedan. It features enhancements like gold seatbelts and brake calipers, adjustable Öhlins dampers, and specialized tuning to make the most of its power.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance sits at the top of the Model 3 lineup with a dual motor AWD powertrain, lowered suspension, performance brakes, and specialized firmware to push the limits of acceleration, handling and speed.
Both are the highest trim levels of the Polestar 2 and Model 3 lineups respectively, appealing to driving enthusiasts who want excitement without the emissions. But the similarities end there.
Range and Charging Comparison
One of the most important considerations for any EV is range, or how far it can drive between charges. Here the Polestar 2 Performance is simply outmatched.
Based on the standard Polestar 2 with the same battery size, the Performance model likely achieves a maximum EPA estimated range of around 230 miles on a full charge. Real-world ranges will vary depending on driving style and conditions.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is EPA rated for 315 miles of range. Thanks to Tesla‘s Supercharger network, the Model 3 can add up to 175 miles of range in just 15 minutes and has access to over 25,000 Superchargers globally.
The Polestar 2 Performance can charge at rates of up to 150 kW and has access to Electrify America‘s network in the US, but charge times and infrastructure are still lagging behind Tesla.
Clearly, for overall range and charging convenience, the Tesla has a decisive advantage. Polestar still offers enough range for most commuting needs, but frequent long trips are better suited to the Model 3 Performance.
Performance and Handling
As the names imply, both of these models emphasize driving performance. How do they compare when the rubber meets the road?
The dual motor Polestar 2 Performance produces 408 horsepower enabling a manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 127 mph. Special Öhlins dampers provide adjustable compression and rebound tuning for a tailored ride.
Impressively, the Model 3 Performance is even quicker. Its dual motor system churns out a riveting 473 horsepower, rocketing from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.1 seconds. Top speed is capped at 162 mph. The lowered suspension, larger brakes and 20" wheels give the Model 3 tenacious grip when cornering hard.
Most reviewers agree that the Model 3 Performance is more exhilarating to drive. However, the adjustable dampers allow drivers to customize the Polestar 2‘s suspension to their liking. Around tight tracks like Laguna Seca the Polestar has posted comparable lap times to the Model 3 Performance. But on wide open roads or straight line performance the Tesla is hard to beat.
Interior Comfort and Tech
Inheriting Volvo‘s safety DNA and attention to detail, the Polestar 2 delivers a delightful Scandinavian-inspired interior experience. The cabin exudes minimalist elegance with sustainable materials and intuitive 9" touchscreen interface.
By contrast, the Model 3 goes for a more radical, technology-centric aesthetic. The famous 15" center touchscreen dominates the stark interior. Vegan leather seats and a glass roof enhance the airy feel. The contoured cockpit provides excellent driver ergonomics.
Both cars feature advanced smartphone integration, streaming entertainment services, and over-the-air software updates. Tesla does have an edge when it comes to autopilot and self-driving technology thanks to its vast data set, but Polestar plans to catch up with help from parent companies Volvo and Geely.
Ultimately interior preferences come down to personal taste. The Polestar prides itself on premium quality and natural material touches while the Tesla offers more flash and sci-fi appeal.
Safety
As an electric variant of the Volvo XC40, the Polestar 2 unsurprisingly delivers exemplary safety. It earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating as well as Top Safety Pick+ status from the IIHS in every category – with good reason. The rigid steel structure, defensive driving aids, and protective passenger cage give confidence that this EV will keep occupants as safe as possible.
Tesla‘s reputation for safety has taken some hits lately, but the Model still earned 5-star ratings from both NHTSA and Euro NCAP. Seven cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors and forward radar monitor hazards and enable cutting-edge driver assistance features. Over-the-air updates allow new safety tech improvements to be added seamlessly.
Both Polestar‘s and Tesla’s active safety suites feature collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane centering assist, blind spot monitoring and more to reduce accident risk. Overall safety standards are quite comparable, but Polestar may have a slight edge in construction quality.
Cost Comparison
As fully loaded performance models, neither of these EVs come cheap. The MSRP for the 2023 Polestar 2 dual motor starts at $51,900. Opting for the Performance Pack adds an extra $5,500 plus destination fees, bringing the total start price to $58,400.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance skips the pricing tiers, starting at a flat $62,990 including destination charges. Costs can rise higher depending on optional wheel, paint and interior choices. However, Teslas no longer qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit.
Polestar models are still eligible for the full $7,500 federal EV tax incentive as of January 2023, making them an even better value in areas where this perk can be utilized. The Tesla does cost several thousand more upfront, but resale values of Teslas continue to lead the EV market.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Polestar 2 Performance | Tesla Model 3 Performance |
|---|---|
| ✅ Beautifully crafted Scandinavian interior | ✅ Market-leading performance and acceleration |
| ✅ Volvo safety and chassis expertise | ✅ Best access to nationwide fast charging network |
| ✅ More affordable upfront price | ✅ Cutting-edge autopilot and self-driving tech |
| ✅ Eligible for $7500 tax credit | ✅ Proven high resale value |
| ❌ Less overall range | ❌ Stiff ride quality not for everyone |
| ❌ Charging network still developing | ❌ Base model lacks backup camera |
| ❌ Resale value TBD | ❌ No access to tax credits |
As we can see, both vehicles have compelling strengths as well unique advantages over the other. The Tesla Model 3 Performance lives up to its name as the quickest, fastest EV sedan on the mainstream market. But the Polestar 2 Performance offers almost as much driving excitement paired with Volvo‘s trademark safety and more accessible pricing.
Which High-Performance EV is Best For You?
For those whose need for speed eclipses all other priorities, the Tesla Model 3 Performance is the clear choice. With world-class acceleration, nimble handling, the latest tech and established infrastructure, it sets the bar for affordable electric performance. Just be prepared to pay extra for this pedigree.
Drivers wanting a more refined performance EV that still thrills would do well in the Polestar 2 Performance. The adjustable chassis, supportive seats, intuitive controls and upscale interior provide plenty of driving enjoyment with Scandinavian elegance. Plus you’ll save some money too.
At the end of the day, car preferences depend heavily on individual needs and tastes. Both Polestar and Tesla are advancing electric performance vehicles to exciting new levels. For now, the Model 3 maintains a distinct edge in straight-line performance. But Polestar‘s fit and finish combined with Volvo safety breeding cannot be ignored.
Any driving enthusiast would enjoy the visceral acceleration and low center of gravity dynamics these EVs offer over any traditional muscle car. As more models enter the ring, competition will heat up and buyers stand to benefit from ever-improving sustainable performance machines.
