Polestar Models Vs. Tesla Vehicles: Compare Specs, Reliability & More

Are you ready to explore Polestar vs. Tesla models to see which one is worth investing in? These two luxury brands are among the leading EV manufacturers, with the Tesla company being a well-versed figure in the sedan and SUV space. However, despite being relatively new, the Polestar brand has already made an impact. These EVs, from the sporty and responsive Polestar 3 SUV to the spacious Polestar 4, are bringing Scandinavian style to the luxury electric marketplace.

Let us at Polestar Marin show you a direct comparison before you visit our location in Corte Madera, CA.

Polestar vs. Tesla Design: Standout Luxury

Polestar Vehicles

One of the standout elements of Polestar models is their design. Take the Polestar 4 performance SUV as an example. The exterior is chic and modern, with L-shaped headlights and an aerodynamic design. Five themes paint the interior of your model, through combinations of colors like Zinc, Charcoal, and Mist.

Tesla Vehicles

Compare those Scandinavian highlights to the standard design of the Tesla Model Y. A singular headlight line under the hood with two lower lights creates a stilted, scattered front, while the handles of the doors sit embedded into the vehicle, feeling almost alien. The interior is similarly unique, with a flat central console and a skinny dashboard making the experience behind the wheel unremarkable.

Tesla vs. Polestar Technology: Comfort & Convenience

Polestar Vehicles

The Polestar collection is luxury-grade and thus emphasizes comfort and convenient features. For example, the new Polestar 3 offers a highly advanced air cleaner as an available option to keep your cabin ideal in all scenarios. Convenience like Google built-in helps keep you connected, while an optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system turns your cabin into a personal sound stage.

Tesla Vehicles

Tesla models also have similar technology to Polestar vehicles, like Dog Mode, which can be comparable to Animal Mode in the Polestar 4. Tesla cabins are also cozy, with highly adaptable seats that you can find in the Model Y. However, the Polestar 4 has more options, such as massage seats for ultimate relaxation.

Tesla vs. Polestar Performance

Polestar Vehicles

The Tesla vs. Polestar specs comparison is difficult, as the Tesla brand hides its metrics and official horsepower counts (besides their performance models). However, you can generally expect Polestar SUVs to be a step ahead of their Tesla equivalents. Here are the highest horsepower, torque, and acceleration numbers for our new Polestar vehicles in Corte Madera, CA.

• Polestar 3: 517 horsepower, 671 pound-feet of torque, 4.5-second 0-60 mph time.
• Polestar 4: 544 horsepower, 506 pound-feet of torque, 3.7-second 0-60 mph time.

Tesla Vehicles

In terms of acceleration, the Polestar lineup is typically favored in comparison to the Tesla options. For example, the Model Y can only reach a 4.6-second 0-60 mph time, unlike the 4.5-second time of the Polestar 3 or the 3.7-second time reached by the Polestar 4.

Polestar vs. Tesla Range & Charging

Polestar Vehicles

Tesla vs. Polestar charging is a close competition, with all models being in close contention. Depending on your Polestar model of choice, the Polestar vs. Tesla range comparison is also very competitive.

Tesla Vehicles

Tesla models do have some advantages, like a minor boost in SUV range and a lower charging rate when using a Level 2 charger. However, when both models utilize a Level 3 DC fast charger, they power up at similar speeds.

Polestar vs. Tesla Reliability & Reviews

Because of how new Polestar models are, it can be challenging to assess their reliability. However, according to U.S. News & World Report, Polestar vehicles remain highly competitive with Tesla equivalents, with the 2025 Polestar 3 ranking higher than the Model Y in their list of Luxury Electric SUVs.^5,6

Tesla vs. Polestar safety is easier to gauge. The Tesla model has basic safety features, but puts a lot of emphasis on their Self-Driving Autopilot, a rather infamously inconsistent and expensive option.⁷ Polestar automobiles have a more standardized and innovative lineup of safety tech, like Blind Spot Information with Steer Assist, a SmartZone system with cameras and sensors, Interior Radars, and fantastic assistance software.

Take an Unforgettable Test Drive at Polestar Marin

If you're ready to take advantage of Polestar specials to get the high-end EV you deserve, come to our dealership in Corte Madera, CA. Experienced Polestar representatives will help you find the model that best matches the needs of you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Polestar vehicles use Tesla charging stations?

Yes, thanks to the NACS Charging Adapter, Polestar vehicles can charge at the Tesla Supercharging Network. This available implementation unlocks over 17,000 additional stations nationwide, maximizing your range and versatility on road trips. If you want to have access to these additional stations, talk with a Polestar representative. We'll show you how the adapter works and the difference between charging ports.

Which has better life expectancy: Polestar or Tesla models?

Since the Polestar brand is relatively new, it is difficult to say for sure which model will have the longer life expectancy over the next few years. However, with advanced engine technology, a similar warranty of four years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first),⁸ and regular maintenance and care, you can expect these models to last around the same amount of time.

Do Polestar vehicles have better performance than Tesla cars?

Polestar automobiles offer extraordinary performance. While the Tesla company hides its true specs, such as horsepower and torque metrics for its motors, Polestar models proudly display their strengths. For example, the Polestar 4 can deliver 544 horsepower and 506 pound-feet of torque, letting it reach 60 mph in as little as 3.7 seconds. The Tesla Model Y scores a slower 4.6-second acceleration time.

Does the Polestar brand offer autopilot like Tesla?

Polestar models do not have autopilot in the same way a Tesla car does. Instead, many Polestar vehicles will utilize Pilot Assist to serve as an aid in driving. While the Tesla brand commonly markets its "Full Self-Driving" program as an autopilot,⁷ it may cause drivers to over-rely on the system. Pilot Assist acts as a guide for fatigued drivers, rather than trying to replace your input.

What Our Loyal Customers Say About Polestar Marin

Bobby Roberts

04/04/2025

10/10 experience here ALL around! Exactly what you'd wish modern-day car buying to be. Incredible service, beautiful showroom, the product (Polestar 3) is absolutely stunning, and efficient and transparent purchasing process. Kevin at the Marin center knew how to provide a seamless experience and made the unthinkable happen in locating what I needed and delivering it same-day. Michael did a fantastic job with a product demonstration, making sure I was well acquainted with the Polestar 3.

William Carlson

11-04-2024

Couldn’t have been a better experience. Joey helped me and he was great, straight shooter. I’ve been shopping around and going to a few bait and switch dealership. Particularly financing terms/monthly payments where I’d be quoted something reasonable then after all the add ins and final talk with the bank a figure way over my budget would be presented. Joey presented exactly what was discussed on the phone. No trickery or upselling. Knowledgeable about the cars and his orientation was helpful, clear and practical. Love the car and recommend this dealer

Marc Hedlund

08-04-2022

Michael Muela was fantastic to work with and a huge help throughout the process. The dealership was very easy to find and everyone I interacted with was great. The car walkthrough was comprehensive and helpful. And I love the car.

¹Preliminary data. Subject to final vehicle EPA certification. Range figures based on the Polestar 3 Single motor and the EPA calculated test data. This is an electric vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to convert the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including, but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery package/condition, tires, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

²Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov

³Charging times may vary and are influenced by several factors, including but not limited to outdoor temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, battery condition, and the overall condition of the vehicle. For precise information on charging times for a specific vehicle model, please contact our dealership.

⁴Charging time measured from 10-80% capacity using a DC 205 kW charger. Charging time and range target based on Long range Single motor variant and EPA standard. This is an electric vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to translate the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). EPA-estimated combined xx city/xx highway/xx combined MPGe figures. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov

⁵Reference to this third-party review is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/polestar

⁶Reference to this third-party review is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla

⁷This available feature requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicle autonomous. The activation and use of these features are dependent on achieving reliability far in excess of human drivers as demonstrated by billions of miles of experience, as well as regulatory approval, which may take longer in some jurisdictions. As these self-driving features evolve, your car will be continuously upgraded through over-the-air software updates.

⁸Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.