Still Controversial Cabin

Inside, the changes weren't immediately as apparent as with other areas of the car. Case in point: Polestar's continued use of Google's Android Automotive OS with Google built in. Although it's a good infotainment system, we were let down some by its graphics, particularly for Google Maps. Using the Google Maps app on our iPhone with Apple CarPlay provided a sharper, more modern look than what the Polestar's Google system delivered, and it didn't freeze like the infotainment did at times. Although we primarily used our iPhone via CarPlay when driving the 2024 model, despite its flaws, the built-in navigation is the way to go for long distances, as it shows the car's estimated range and charging stations along the way should you need some juice.

We also aren't big fans of the infotainment screen's vertical layout. It has numerous limitations, including placing the A/C buttons all the way at the bottom, so we had to take our eyes off the road to do simple things like adjusting the air vents.

Infotainment aside, those cross-shopping between a Tesla Model 3 and a Polestar 2 will likely be impressed by the Swedish model's upscale interior, which feels more elegant and premium than the Model 3—especially the present, pre-refresh model. Polestar also has more convenience features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We still think Tesla has an advantage over the Polestar when it comes to interior room, however. The Polestar's center console is missing cubbies and space to place your belongings, and when the cupholders were busy, there was literally nowhere to leave our keys, wallet, or phone.

Is It Better Than a Model 3?

Given the changes to the 2024 Polestar 2, it now feels on par with the Tesla Model 3. But the biggest advantage the Model 3 has (besides the Supercharger Network) is price. At present, the rear-drive Model 3 delivers 272 miles of range and starts at $40,630, whereas the cheapest Polestar 2 starts at $51,300. What's more, the Model 3 qualifies for the $7,500 federal incentives, while the Polestar only qualifies for that credit if it's leased, but not if it's bought since it's made in China. Tesla also continues to cut down pricing, and recently re-introduced the Model 3 RWD, making it more affordable than before.

So, is the Polestar worth the $11,000 price difference? And is it better than the updated Model 3 Highland, which is set to arrive sometime in early 2024? We're sure the Highland will take customers away from Polestar, given the long list of improvements Tesla made to the 3.

Despite the initial Polestar 2's flaws, it was a decent enough alternative to the Tesla Model 3 from the start, and this post-refresh model is better in every way. But Tesla has made strong moves recently, including the coming refresh to its bestselling sedan and lowering prices. Polestar has a chance to make things better, but a more competitive price point would be a good place to start.

2024 Polestar 2 Plus Specifications
Base Price	$53,500
Price As Tested	$56,750
Vehicle Layout	Rear-motor, RWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback
Motor Type	Permanent-magnet electric
Power (Sae Net)	299 hp
Torque (Sae Net)	361 lb-ft
Transmission	1-speed automatic
Curb Weight (F/R Dist)	4,504 lb (49/51%)
Wheelbase	107.7 in
LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT	181.3 x 73.2 x 58.2 in
0-60 Mph	5.3 sec
Quarter Mile	14.0 sec @ 99.0 mph
Braking, 60-0 Mph	124 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.85 g (avg)
MT Figure Eight	26.3 sec @ 0.68 g (avg)
EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ	124/106/115 mpg-e
EPA Range, Comb	307 miles
On Sale	Now