“Comparing the Polestar 3: Luxury Electric SUVs in the Midsize Segment”
The newly unveiled Polestar 3 electric SUV enters the arena of upscale, two-row midsize all-electric SUVs, standing slightly larger than the Tesla Model Y and comparably sized to the 2026 Rivian R2. Naturally, prospective buyers will cross-shop these three vehicles due to their similar positioning in the market. However, each vehicle brings its own unique blend of features, performance, and pricing to the table.
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Polestar 3
While the Tesla Model Y boasts a reputation for offering surprising value, with its rear-wheel-drive version starting at $45,380 (before tax incentives) and the all-wheel-drive Long Range variant at $50,380, the Rivian R2 is anticipated to start at $45,000 upon its arrival in 2026. In contrast, the 2025 Polestar 3 aligns more closely with the pricing expectations of a midsize luxury SUV, electric or otherwise.
For the 2024 model year, the Polestar 3 is exclusively available in Launch Edition configurations, starting at $80,300 for the dual-motor Long Range version and $86,300 for the Performance package variant. However, Polestar has now disclosed the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) of the 2025-model-year 3s, marking the commencement of the regular, non-Launch-Edition lineup of electric SUVs.
The base price for the 2025 Polestar 3 begins at $74,800, including $1,400 in destination charges. This price secures a dual-motor, Long Range model equipped with 315 miles of range and generating 489 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque from its two motors. Notably, unlike the Tesla and Rivian R2, the entry-level Polestar 3 includes all-wheel drive as standard. Moreover, every Polestar 3 model utilizes the same 111-kWh battery, capable of being charged at a maximum rate of 250 kW.
Despite its impressive specifications, the entry-level Polestar 3 commands a price premium of nearly $25,000 over the roughly equivalent Tesla Model Y Dual Motor Long Range, which provides 310 miles of range. Stepping up to the Polestar 3 with the Performance package, priced at $80,800, maintains a similar premium over the Tesla Model Y Performance trim. The Performance package enhances the 3’s performance credentials with 517 hp, 671 lb-ft of torque, and 279 miles of driving range, mirroring the specifications claimed by Tesla for the Model Y Performance. Additionally, it introduces upscale features such as 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, “Swedish Gold” accents, and enhanced suspension tuning.
Buyers can further enhance their Polestar 3 experience by opting for the Plus package, priced at $5,500, which includes a premium 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, wool seats, 21-inch wheels, and heated rear seats. Furthermore, the Pilot package, featuring Lidar- and camera-based safety technology, previously offered as a $5,000 option, is now standard across the entire 2025 model year lineup, providing added peace of mind for drivers.
