2025 Polestar 2 vs. 2025 Tesla Model 3 Comparison

The 2025 Polestar 2 and 2025 Tesla Model 3 are compact premium electric cars that are big on technology. From this point, their roads diverge significantly. The Polestar 2 sits somewhere between a regular car and an SUV. We’d be inclined to describe it as a somewhat high-riding hatchback. This year, the Polestar 2 goes much further upmarket, taking itself out of contention against all but the most powerful and expensive Model 3 variant.

As one of the original leading lights of the move toward electrics, the Model 3 first arrived for the 2017 model year and established itself quickly as one of the best-selling EVs, as well as one of the best-selling luxury vehicles. Only Tesla’s Model Y compact SUV — which uses much of the same mechanicals as the Model 3 — has higher annual sales in the United States. The Model 3 follows a more conventional car design.

We expect budget to play the main part in deciding between these two. But for those who would still prefer to take in the details, we’re highlighting aspects of both EVs to see how they compare. 

2025 Polestar 2

2024 model shown

In case you’re unfamiliar, Polestar began by tuning Volvo vehicles, became part of the company, and has now been reinvented as an all-electric marque. The Polestar 2 was introduced for the 2021 model year as the marque’s second vehicle, following the limited-production Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid coupe. 

Pricing of the 2025 Polestar 2 starts at $66,200, including the destination charge. That hardly compares well to the Model 3’s mid-$40K starting figure, but Polestar has made some radical changes this time around. In previous years, this would have been the top-of-the-line model with all the options. For 2025, there is no line beneath it, and all erstwhile options are now standard. Which explains the price. For a Tesla Model 3 to get close, it would have to be the Performance model with 510 horsepower, starting in the mid-$50K region.

Polestar 2 Highlights 

Everything, all at once: Polestar has turned the 2 into a one-off. Previous option packages that included adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance, heated rear seats, upgraded Brembo brakes, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system all become standard this year.

Power and speed: Electric motors are known for their ability to create thrust. The 476-horsepower Polestar 2 capitalizes on that ability by rushing from zero to 60 mph in a whisker below four seconds. That’s fast, even if it’s not quicker than the Model 3 Performance model.

Google-based infotainment: A 11.2-inch touchscreen (oriented vertically) runs a Google-based infotainment system that features Google Maps navigation and user-friendly voice commands. Apple users aren’t forgotten — the unit is compatible with Apple CarPlay in addition to Android Auto. During testing, we’ve found the graphics are clear, while response times are satisfyingly quick. There is a bit of a learning curve, however.

Non-animal interior: Polestar makes a point of offering a vegan-friendly interior in the 2. The standard seat coverings are of a durable woven fabric. There’s also the option of fine leather upholstery, sourced from the highly regarded Bridge of Weir company in Scotland.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Polestar 2 models near you.

2025 Tesla Model 3

2024 model shown

The Model 3 has been humming along U.S. roads since the 2017 model year. After receiving revised exterior and interior styling, improved interior trim quality, more sound deadening, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ambient LED interior lighting, and ventilation for the front seats last year, the maximum range increases to 363 miles (https://www.kbb.com/car-news/tesla-brings-back-longer-range-model-3-rwd/) from 341. Tesla has also discontinued the Standard Range version, previously the cheapest Model 3.

With its entry-level 286-hp electric drivetrain, the Model 3 is sufficiently speedy, complemented by sharp steering responses. Upper trims are wildly quick — the Model 3 Performance delivers 510 hp to all four wheels and scorches from a standstill to 60 mph in about three seconds. Pricing begins at $44,130, including the destination charge. The Model 3 may also be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500.

Tesla Model 3 Highlights 

Supercharger network: This is a big benefit when buying a Tesla vehicle. Over the years, its nationwide network of Supercharger stations has expanded and improved. This takes a lot of anxiety out of longer drives, particularly in areas where an EV driver isn’t familiar with the location or prevalence of charge points.

Range: The Model 3’s range varies from 303 miles for the Performance model to 363 miles in the Long Range RWD variant. Rivals are closing in, and occasionally surpassing, but Tesla EVs often retain the upper hand in this respect.   

Cargo space: Despite its tidy proportions, the Model 3 has a roomy trunk of 21 cubic feet. There’s also a small front trunk (a “frunk”) measuring 3.1 cubic feet — big enough for a small duffel, backpack, or grocery bag. The frunk in the Polestar 2 is only 1.2 cubic feet in capacity.

15.4-inch touchscreen: We’ll admit not everyone will love having every bit of information displayed on the Model 3’s large 15.4-inch central touchscreen. On the plus side, though, it has superb clarity, large icons, and cool features like the ability to stream Hulu and Netflix (when parked, of course). However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Model 3 models near you.

Similarities

The Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 have a lot to offer car buyers interested in an EV. Each has a usable driving range and DC fast-charging capability. Adults will be happy sitting in the rear seats, although squeezing three back there is a tall (pardon the pun) order. We also think their designs are relatively conservative, which could be a plus for many people. 

Conclusion

It’s not the similarities but the differences that should make this an easy decision. With a lower price, greater range, and more practicality, the Model 3 is a clear winner. Even the Performance variant looks impressive against the 2025 Polestar 2. We also expect Model 3 resale values to be stronger. The Polestar 2 might appeal to anyone who has ruled out buying a new Tesla Model 3 — perhaps you’ve already owned one and want to see what else is out there in EV Land.

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Polestar 2 vehicles and New 2025 Tesla Model 3 vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

	2025 Polestar 2	2025 Tesla Model 3
Popular Powertrains
Engine	Dual electric motors	Single electric motor
Horsepower	476 hp	286 hp
Torque	546 lb-ft	322 lb-ft
Transmission	Single-speed automatic	Single-speed automatic
Range	254 miles/91 MPGe	303-363 miles/138 MPGe
Also Available	N/A	Dual electric motors, AWD
Specs
Basic Warranty	4 years/50,000 miles	4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	8 years/100,000 miles	8 years/100,000 miles
NHTSA Overall Safety	5 star	N/R
Max Seating Capacity	5	5
Wheelbase	107.7 inches	113.2 inches
Overall Length	181.3 inches	185.8 inches
Width	73.2 inches	72.8 inches
Height	58.2 inches	56.7 inches
Turning Diameter	37.7 feet	38.4 feet
Headroom, Front	41.3 inches	40.3 inches
Headroom, Rear	37.7 inches	37.8 inch
Legroom, Front	42.2 inches	42.7 inches
Legroom, Rear	33.9 inches	34.5 inches
Shoulder Room, Front	54.6 inches	56.7 inches
Shoulder Room, Rear	52.6 inches	54.2 inches
Cargo Volume	14.4 cubic feet	23 cubic feet