Oct. 1, 2022 1:27 pm EST Trygve Finkelsen/Shutterstock When the Tesla Model 3 was produced in 2017, it was one of the most anticipated electric vehicles. It went on to become one of the highest-selling electric vehicle models in the world, according to CleanTechnica. In an effort to catch up, traditional automakers such as Volkswagen, Ford and General Motors are on a mission to dethrone Tesla in the EV market. However, newcomers such as Lucid Motors and Polestar also have a point to make, and they're producing electric cars that are as good as a Tesla — if not better. Advertisement Case in point: The Polestar 2 is an electric car that is often pitied against the Tesla Model 3. It offers almost the same experience that you will find in a Tesla Model 3. Plus, you could spend almost the same amount you would for a Model 3 to buy a Polestar 2. But which is the better electric car between Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2? Let's find out. The battery range Sjoerd Van Der Wal/Getty Images The Tesla Model 3 interior design is extremely minimalistic. It only comes with two physical buttons on the steering wheel since almost everything is controlled through the 15.4 touchscreen display at the center of the cabin (via Top Gear). On the other hand, the Polestar 2 has more physical buttons on the steering wheel and a transmission selector even though it's an electric vehicle. In addition to that, the Polestar 2 interior is complemented with an 11.15-inch center touchscreen installed with Android Automotive OS. Advertisement Both the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 interiors are made with vegan material. However, the finishing on the Polestar 2 is inspired by Volvo's signature style, giving it a premium look, like most European car brands. In fact, customers have an option to choose Nappa leather finishing on the Polestar 2 interior. If you combine that with reconstructed wood, durable upholstery fabric with sports design and LED lighting, the interior of the Polestar 2 feels more luxe than what you would find in the Tesla Model 3. Tesla Model 3 or Polestar 2: The verdict Ethan Yetman & Luxury Fred Sherman/Shutterstock If you prioritize acceleration, battery range, and self-driving technology, the Tesla Model 3 is the clear winner. However, the Polestar 2 comes on top if you consider comfort and interior quality. Besides that, the Polestar 2 is a hatchback with hints of a premium Volvo and the Tesla Model 3 is a sedan similar to the Model S — but smaller. Advertisement As for the price, the 2023 Polestar 2 starts at $48,800. If you're buying the 2022 model, it will cost you about $2,500 less than the 2023 model. But if you want the 2023 Long Range Dual Motor trim, it will cost you about $51,900. The biggest improvement of the 2023 Polestar 2 over the 2022 model year is the 11 miles of extra range on the Long Range Dual Motor variant. The Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive starts at $46,990, while the Long-Range trim is sold at $54,490. The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the most expensive trim at $61,990. But with the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, the Tesla Model 3 will become eligible for the $7,500 tax credit starting January 1, 2023 — although only the trims that are sold for less than $55,000 will be considered. Advertisement Unless Volvo builds the Polestar 2 in the U.S., it won't qualify for the new tax incentive under the Inflation Reduction Act. However, we know Volvo is building an electric SUV in the U.S., and it will be known as the Polestar 3. Recommended