Introducing the Contenders
The Polestar 3 and Tesla Model Y represent two of the most hotly anticipated electric SUVs coming to market. Polestar is an electric performance brand spawned from Volvo that launched its first model, the Polestar 1 hybrid coupe, in 2017. The Polestar 3 will be the company‘s first fully electric SUV when it debuts in October 2023.
Tesla of course needs no introduction as the pioneer of modern electric vehicles. Its compact Model Y SUV began production in January 2020 and has rapidly become one of the best-selling EVs globally thanks to competitive pricing and impressive capabilities.
So how do these two luxury electric SUVs stack up? Let‘s take a detailed look.
Pricing and Trims
The Polestar 3 launches at a base price of $85,300 in the United States, significantly higher than the Model Y Long Range which starts at $65,990. However, the Polestar 3 will also offer a high-end "Performance Pack" model with added features for around $110,000.
Both SUVs come decently equipped in their base versions, with the Polestar 3 adding upgrades like a heat pump, 21-inch wheels, and a 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system on higher trims.
Range and Charging
Range is one of the most important considerations for EV buyers. Here‘s how the Polestar 3 and Model Y compare:
Polestar 3: 348 miles to 379 miles EPA range depending on configuration
Model Y Long Range: 330 miles EPA range
So advantage Polestar when it comes to maximum distance on a charge. Both vehicles offer fast charging capability to regain around 200 miles of charge in 15 minutes. The Polestar 3 will eventually work with Tesla Superchargers in North America as part of an agreement between the brands.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Polestar 3 comes with an electric motor powering both the front and rear axles, giving it all-wheel drive traction. The standard model generates 489 horsepower allowing a 0-60 mph time of around 4.9 seconds. Opting for the Performance Pack boosts output to 517 hp and cuts the 0-60 acceleration benchmark to just 4.7 seconds.
Here is how that matches up with the dual motor Tesla Model Y configurations:
Model Y Long Range: 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, top speed 135 mph
Model Y Performance: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, top speed 155 mph
So the Performance Pack Polestar 3 can match the Long Range Model Y‘s pace, but the Model Y Performance still holds the edge for outright straight line speed. Around corners, the Polestar 3‘s sophisticated chassis and low center of gravity should allow it to be a match for the Model Y.
Design and Dimensions
The Polestar 3 cuts a sleeker profile than the more upright, crossover-esque Model Y. It measures 195 inches long, 78.7 inches wide and 64.3 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 115 inches between the axles. Compared to the Model Y (187 x 76 x 64 inches on a 113.7 inch wheelbase), the Polestar has a longer, lower stance overall.
Inside, both vehicles aim for a minimalist Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic blending premium materials with smart tech integration. The Polestar 3 stands out with unique touches like its center console wrapped in rock grey sustainably-sourced flax composite. Seating capacity is five passengers standard or optional third row to fit seven.
Technology and Safety Features
As you‘d expect from two cutting-edge electric vehicles, the Polestar 3 and Tesla Model Y come loaded with the latest technology. Highlights include:
Polestar 3
- Google built-in OS with Android Automotive
- Digital key with phone-as-key functionality
- Semi-autonomous highway driving assistance
- OTA updates to improve features over time
- Advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control
Tesla Model Y
- Centered 15-inch touchscreen display
- Continuous OTA update capability
- Autopilot advanced driver assistance system (extra cost option)
- Sentry mode security monitoring
- Smart Summon autonomous parking (with FSD package)
Both SUVs promise to offer five-star safety ratings as standard once rated. We‘ll have to wait for full testing to see how their accident avoidance systems compare.
The Verdict: Which is Right for You?
The Polestar 3 versus Tesla Model Y matchup has no clear runaway winner. Polestar‘s newcomer offers greater range and likely handling agility. The Model Y counterpunches with quicker acceleration, especially in Performance form, along with Tesla‘s vastly greater fast charging infrastructure reach.
Ultimately preferences for style and brand affinity may decide the choice more than specs. The minimalist Polestar badge speaks to a buyer wanting distinguished European luxury. Tesla remains the default option for diehard EV enthusiasts focused on technologywith its feature-packed interface.
You can‘t go wrong either way you choose. But the Polestar 3 looks ready to give even the mighty Tesla Model Y a run for the money. The EV SUV competition is heating up, and consumers stand to benefit from driving innovation forward.
