The Tesla Model 3 is currently the world’s best-selling electric car, with undisputed success in key markets such as the United States, Europe, and China.
Most manufacturers have focused on launching electric cars with hatchback bodies and SUVs; thus, so far, the Tesla Model 3 has had no direct rival. However, this will change in the short term thanks to the arrival of the expected BMW i4 and Polestar 2.
The BMW i4 will be the electric version of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, the fastback variant of the popular 3 Series. The Polestar 2, for its part, is the second model of Polestar, Volvo’s former sports division, now established as an independent brand within the group, Geely. The latter model was the first direct rival to the Tesla Model 3 to hit the market, and now British magazine Auto Express has decided to take them on for the first time.
The duel featured the Polestar 2 Performance Pack and the Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor Performance, the sportiest versions of their respective ranges. The Polestar has a 408 hp power and does 0 to 60 miles per hour (0-96.6 km/h) in just 4.7 seconds, while the Tesla reaches 490 hp and lowers the time to 3.2 seconds. Both models have an all-wheel drive.
Despite Tesla’s superior performance, the Polestar is somewhat expensive: $59,900, compared to $58,190 for its rival. Both have a battery of similar useful capacity (72.5 kWh). However, in real conditions, the Tesla is much more efficient, as demonstrated by the real autonomies obtained in the test (329 miles for the Model 3, 292 miles from a full charge for the Polestar 2).
Testers at Auto Express conclude that the winner of the comparison is the Tesla Model 3, as it is faster and more efficient, loads at higher power (250 kW vs. 150 kW), and is more comfortable and spacious. The Polestar 2 is convincing for its smooth handling and interior quality; Also, its chassis is more dynamic.