Database / Comparisons / Tesla Model 3 vs Polestar 2
Tesla Model 3 vs Polestar 2
Two of the most cross-shopped electric cars, compared on EPA test data and verified prices. Updated October 2026.
2026 Tesla Model 3
2025 Polestar 2Side by side
| 2026 Tesla Model 3 | 2025 Polestar 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $36,990 | $64,800 |
| EPA range | 363 mi | 314 mi |
| Efficiency | 137 MPGe | 114 MPGe |
| Battery (usable) | 79.0 kWh | 79.0 kWh |
| Max DC fast charging | 250 kW | 205 kW |
| DC charge per 100 mi | ~6 min | ~9 min |
| EPA fuel cost / year | $550 | $650 |
| Fuel cost / mile | $0.04 | $0.04 |
| 5-yr fuel savings | $9,250 | $8,750 |
| Body style | Sedan | Sedan |
What the numbers say
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 goes farther: 363 vs 314 mi of EPA range.
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 costs less up front: $27,810 less ($36,990 vs $64,800 starting MSRP).
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 is more efficient: 137 vs 114 MPGe combined — cheaper miles every day you drive it.
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 road-trips faster: ~6 vs ~9 minutes of DC fast charging per 100 miles of range.
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 is cheaper to fuel: $550 vs $650 a year (EPA estimate).
Questions, answered
Which has more range, the Tesla Model 3 or the Polestar 2?
The 2026 Tesla Model 3: 363 vs 314 miles of EPA range.
Which is cheaper, the Tesla Model 3 or the Polestar 2?
The 2026 Tesla Model 3, starting at $36,990 MSRP before destination (vs $64,800). Prices verified by hand.
Which charges faster, the Tesla Model 3 or the Polestar 2?
The 2026 Tesla Model 3, peaking at 250 kW DC (vs 205 kW). Real-world peaks vary with battery temperature.
Specs: U.S. EPA via fueleconomy.gov, model years 2025–2027. Prices are verified starting MSRP before destination. Charging figures are manufacturer ratings for the quickest trim.