In 2025, the electric vehicle (EV) market is no longer a futuristic playground—it’s a mainstream battleground. As traditional automakers catch up with Tesla, three sedans dominate the affordable premium EV segment: the Tesla Model 3 Highland, the Hyundai Ioniq 6, and the Polestar 2.
This in-depth 2,000-word review compares these three in terms of performance, tech, range, design, comfort, pricing, and ownership experience to help buyers decide which one fits their lifestyle and values best.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 Highland | Hyundai Ioniq 6 | Polestar 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (USD) | $38,990 | $37,500 | $49,900 |
| Max Range (EPA est.) | 341 miles | 361 miles | 320 miles |
| 0–60 mph (Top Model) | 4.1 sec | 5.1 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Charging Speed (DC Fast) | 250 kW | 350 kW (800V) | 205 kW |
| Infotainment OS | Tesla OS | Hyundai Bluelink + Android | Android Automotive |
| Driving Experience | Direct, minimalistic | Smooth, comfort-focused | Balanced, sporty |
| Interior Design | Ultra-minimal | Futuristic-luxe | Scandinavian premium |
| Self-driving Tech | Full Self-Driving (Beta) | Smart Cruise + Assist | Pilot Assist |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Tesla Model 3 Highland
The Highland update refines the Tesla driving experience. With rear- and dual-motor AWD variants, the acceleration remains aggressive—especially in the Long Range model, which hits 0–60 in about 4.1 seconds. The lower center of gravity, improved suspension tuning, and tighter steering feedback make it feel agile and engaging.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Not as performance-oriented, but a smooth cruiser. The ride prioritizes comfort and quietness, thanks to excellent damping and a nearly silent cabin. It’s built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, offering excellent weight distribution and rear-wheel-drive balance, with AWD available on higher trims.
Polestar 2
Polestar balances sportiness and Scandinavian restraint. The dual-motor variant delivers a punchy, confident drive, while the single-motor model favors efficiency. The optional Performance Pack adds Öhlins dampers and Brembo brakes, making it the enthusiast’s EV among the three.
Range and Efficiency
Range anxiety still influences EV purchases, but all three sedans deliver enough to satisfy daily and road-trip driving.
| Model Variant | Max Range (EPA est.) | Real-World Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Model 3 Highland LR | 341 miles | ~310 miles |
| Ioniq 6 RWD SE | 361 miles | ~330 miles |
| Polestar 2 LR SM | 320 miles | ~290 miles |
While the Ioniq 6 slightly outpaces the others in rated range, Tesla’s efficient powertrain and charging network integration offer strong real-world usability. Polestar falls slightly behind but remains adequate for most daily commutes and occasional longer trips.
Charging Experience
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the standout here. With an 800-volt architecture, it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes under ideal conditions. Tesla’s 250 kW Superchargers are excellent and reliable but take closer to 25 minutes. Polestar supports up to 205 kW DC fast charging, with real-world results lagging slightly behind its rivals.
Video Breakdown:
“Tesla vs Hyundai vs Polestar: EV Charging Speed Faceoff (2025)”
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVChargingBattle2025]
Infotainment and User Interface
| Feature | Model 3 Highland | Ioniq 6 | Polestar 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 15.4″ center screen | 12.3″ + 12.3″ dual setup | 11.2″ center + 12.3″ cluster |
| Native OS | Tesla OS (Linux-based) | Hyundai Bluelink + Android | Google Android Automotive |
| Voice Assistant | Tesla Voice AI | Google Assistant (Android Auto) | Built-in Google Assistant |
Tesla’s interface remains the fastest and most seamless, though some still miss physical buttons. Hyundai offers a more traditional layout, which many drivers prefer. Polestar’s Google-native system is highly intuitive, with real-time Google Maps and voice commands that feel natural.
Interior Comfort and Design
Tesla Model 3 Highland
Minimalist to the extreme. No stalks, almost no physical buttons, and a new rear display for passengers. It’s clean, futuristic, and a bit polarizing. Seats are supportive, though backseat headroom remains tight for taller passengers.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
A tech-luxe vibe, with ambient lighting, a bridge-style center console, and generous space due to the cab-forward design. The rear seats offer surprising legroom, making it one of the most comfortable EVs for families.
Polestar 2
Understated, elegant, and sustainable. Materials include vegan upholstery and reconstructed wood. It feels premium, but not flashy. Cabin width is narrower than rivals, but the design has timeless appeal.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
| System Capability | Tesla FSD Beta | Hyundai SmartSense | Polestar Pilot Assist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highway Autopilot | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| City Navigation | Yes (limited cities) | No | No |
| Lane Change Assist | Auto + Confirmable | Confirm only | Confirm only |
| Self-Park | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Tesla leads in ambition with FSD Beta, though it’s still not fully autonomous. Hyundai and Polestar both offer stable, confident lane-keeping and adaptive cruise, but lack Tesla’s city-driving vision.
Ownership Experience & Ecosystem
Tesla
Pros: Seamless app, extensive Supercharger network, over-the-air (OTA) updates, strong resale.
Cons: Spotty service support, build quality inconsistencies.
Hyundai
Pros: 5-year/60K mile warranty, up to 2 years of free charging (via Electrify America), dealer service.
Cons: Infotainment UX still evolving, no Tesla network access.
Polestar
Pros: Stylish brand, solid OTA support, Google-native UX.
Cons: Smaller dealer/service footprint, limited charging partnerships.
Sustainability & Materials
All three cars tout eco-conscious materials. Polestar stands out for its sustainability reports and use of low-impact materials. Tesla uses synthetic “vegan leather” and Hyundai features plant-based bio-paints and eco-processed seats in higher trims.
| Model | Sustainable Materials Highlighted |
|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | Animal-free interiors, minimal metal use |
| Ioniq 6 | Bio PET carpets, eco paints |
| Polestar 2 | Recycled PET, flax-based composites |
Cost of Ownership & Maintenance
EVs offer significantly lower maintenance costs than ICE vehicles. Here’s an estimated 5-year cost analysis:
| Expense Category | Tesla Model 3 | Hyundai Ioniq 6 | Polestar 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $250 | $275 | $300 |
| Insurance (avg/year) | $1,400 | $1,350 | $1,600 |
| Charging Cost (home) | ~$500 | ~$470 | ~$520 |
| Depreciation | Moderate | Low | Higher |
Hyundai slightly edges out Tesla in total ownership cost, especially with its longer warranty and free public charging promotions.
Ideal Buyer Profiles
- Model 3 Highland: Best for tech-forward drivers who want a proven, integrated EV ecosystem and cutting-edge software.
- Ioniq 6: Ideal for comfort seekers, families, and those prioritizing efficiency with a traditional layout.
- Polestar 2: Perfect for drivers seeking design elegance, Android-native UX, and a refined driving experience.
Verdict: Which One Wins in 2025?
Each model excels in specific areas:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | Tesla Model 3 |
| Interior Comfort | Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
| Infotainment | Polestar 2 |
| Range | Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
| Charging Speed | Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
| Self-Driving Tech | Tesla Model 3 |
| Price-to-Value | Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
| Style & Design | Polestar 2 |
Best Overall EV Sedan (2025): Hyundai Ioniq 6
For buyers looking for maximum comfort, value, range, and ease of ownership, the Ioniq 6 emerges as the most well-rounded option. Tesla’s Model 3 Highland is still the performance and software champ, while Polestar 2 appeals to a niche of design-savvy drivers.