2024 Polestar 2 vs Tesla Model 3 Specs and Features Comparison: Refreshed base models

The Polestar 2 costs $5,500 than the Tesla Model 3

Currently, $5,500 separates the base model variants of the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3. Both will be eligible for state government incentives and the FBT exemption for electric vehicles.

▶ MORE: 2024 Polestar 2 price and specs | 2024 Tesla Model 3 price and specs

For an estimated driveaway price and total cost of ownership - use the zecar cost of ownership calculator.

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The Tesla Model 3 is the more spacious vehicle inside and out (storage)

The Tesla Model 3 benefits from built on a dedicated EV platform which allows for greater interior space relative to the external footprint. The Polestar 2 is built on a shared platform and results in a more crmped interior. The Polestar 2 however has the benefit of the liftback shape which allows for a larger opening with the seats folded down.

The Tesla Model 3 is generally larger than the Polestar 2. The Polestar 2 is taller (+38 mm), but, the Model 3 is longer (+114 mm) and wider (+74 mm).

The Model 3 is the lighter vehicle, weighing 179 kg less than the Polestar 2. This is likely the main reason for its superior claimed energy efficiency.

The Model 3 and Polestar 2 are rated to tow 750 kg unbraked.

The Polestar 2 offers better range but the Tesla Model 3 is quicker off the mark.

On paper, the Polestar 2 offers slightly more claimed WLTP range (+19 km), attributable to its larger battery. It is however less efficient than the Model 3, due to being 179 kg heavier.

The Model 3 offers slightly faster acceleration than the Polestar 2, hitting 0 to 100 km/hr in 6.1 seconds. This is probably due its lighter weight and its rear-wheel drive setup.

The Tesla Model 3 offers faster DC charging than the Polestar 2

The Model 3 offers faster DC charging than the Polestar 2. The single phase on-board charger of both models offer pedestrian AC charging rates of 11 kW.

Both vehicles do not offer V2L which allows you to use the car's battery as a mobile power bank.

Read More:

• Tesla Model 3 Charging Guide
• Polestar 2 Charging Guide
• Are Tesla Superchargers worth it in Australia?

Both the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 have good driver assist technology

The Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 offer similar levels of driver-assist technology features. The Polestar 2 has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, whereas the Model 3 does not have one at all.

The Tesla Model 3 has the superior infotainment and connectivity offering

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The Tesla Model 3 is considered to have a superior infotainment and connectivity offering highlighted by its class-leading 15.4-inch centre screen, snappy user-friendly interface and high quality sound system.

Only the Polestar 2 features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Both models feature mobile apps which allow functionalities such as remote lock, pre-heating/cooling and charge monitoring.

The Tesla Model 3 offers more additional features such as making the heat pump standard. The Polestar 2 requires an upgraded trim in order to get the heat pump.

Despite being $5,500 more expensive, the Polestar 2 offers less standard features.

In order to align the Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor with the Model 3 rear-wheel drive, the Pilot Pack ($3500) and Plus Pack ($6000) will need to be added to have key features like more advanced safety assist systems, a heat pump, glass roof and more.

These options make the Polestar 2 over $15,000 dearer before on-road costs.

It's worth noting that the Polestar 2 offers unique features from in its option packs not available on the Model 3, including a 360-degree surround view camera, semi-automatic parking system, and radar-based blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts.