Polestar, the electric performance brand born from Volvo and Geely, is stepping boldly into the luxury SUV space with the Polestar 3. With clean Scandinavian design and advanced tech, the vehicle positions itself as a direct competitor to Tesla’s Model X and BMW’s iX. But does it offer enough to compete with these established names?
Designed to Stand Out
The Polestar 3 doesn’t just aim to blend in with existing electric SUVs—it wants to stand apart. The design is strikingly modern, with sharp lines, an athletic stance, and minimalistic styling. The SUV also emphasizes sustainability, using recycled and vegan materials inside the cabin. This approach appeals to drivers looking for luxury without compromise on values.
Inside, the vehicle offers a clutter-free cockpit with a large vertical infotainment screen and Google’s Android Automotive OS powering the system. This integration allows for voice control via Google Assistant, live Google Maps navigation, and app downloads through the Play Store—all without needing a smartphone connection.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Polestar 3 offers strong performance. The dual-motor setup gives the SUV all-wheel-drive capability and confident handling. The battery range is competitive with rivals, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips.
Unlike Tesla’s sometimes polarizing ride quality, the Polestar 3 emphasizes balance. Adaptive air suspension adjusts to road conditions, offering both comfort and agility. Drivers can also choose between different modes depending on whether they want a sporty or relaxed feel. Early reviews suggest that while Tesla remains slightly ahead in straight-line acceleration, Polestar may hold an edge in ride refinement.
Safety with Volvo Roots
Polestar benefits from its Volvo heritage when it comes to safety features. The Polestar 3 includes driver assistance tools like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping aid, and pilot assist. These tools support the driver without being overly intrusive. A forward-facing LiDAR system and radar technology enhance situational awareness, a feature BMW also includes in its iX.
Unlike Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system, which is still under development and occasionally controversial, Polestar focuses on supporting—not replacing—the driver. For many buyers, especially those new to EVs, this makes for a more reassuring transition.
Where It Stands Against Tesla and BMW
The competition is intense. Tesla’s Model X offers a longer track record, supercharger network access, and more aggressive performance. BMW’s iX, meanwhile, brings premium craftsmanship and a long-standing reputation for driving excellence.
Polestar 3 carves a space for itself by blending thoughtful design, cutting-edge tech, and a more grounded approach to automation. Its minimalist style and eco-friendly materials appeal to a different type of luxury buyer—one less concerned with flash and more with function. The brand’s limited showroom presence in the U.S. may pose a hurdle, but interest is growing fast thanks to strong marketing and partnerships with Volvo dealerships.
Buyers who value a traditional luxury experience with modern EV capabilities may find the Polestar 3 more appealing than Tesla’s futuristic approach. Meanwhile, those drawn to understated Scandinavian design may prefer it to BMW’s bolder, more complex aesthetics.
Charging and Range Considerations
The Polestar 3 supports fast charging and has a battery capacity that allows for long-range driving, though final numbers can vary based on driving conditions and climate. It works with major charging networks in the U.S., including Electrify America and ChargePoint. While Tesla’s Supercharger network remains more robust, third-party charging infrastructure is improving rapidly. The recent move toward Tesla’s NACS plug standard may also reduce charging differences across brands in the future.
Home charging setup is straightforward, with Level 2 charging offering overnight full charges for most users. While some owners may still experience range anxiety, real-world feedback suggests that the Polestar 3 is capable of handling routine needs with minimal inconvenience.
A Rising Challenger Worth Watching
Polestar may not yet have Tesla’s following or BMW’s legacy, but the Polestar 3 proves it’s more than a niche player. With its thoughtful engineering, luxury touches, and balanced driving dynamics, this electric SUV has the tools to carve out a loyal audience.
For buyers looking beyond brand hype, the Polestar 3 offers a fresh, capable, and stylish path into the EV future.
