Driven 1000 miles in my 2025 Polestar 3, and the heating system nearly sabotaged the charging process, but it's still a better choice for long road trips compared to my 2021 Tesla Model Y.
The Polestar 3, the luxury electric crossover aimed at the Model Y, has been making waves in the automotive industry. However, like any new vehicle, it comes with its own set of challenges when it comes to long road trips.
Recent reports suggest that the Polestar 3 struggles in hot weather, with warmish air in the cabin when stationary. Additionally, some charging sessions have been derated, presumably due to heat, and owners suspect that temperature-sensitive components like grill shutters or heat exchangers may be causing these issues.
Despite these challenges, the Polestar 3's range of 310-350 miles offers a decent driving distance between charges. To optimise route planning and charging stops, the A Better Route Planner (ABRP) app is a valuable tool. ABRP accurately determines charging stops under real-world conditions, planning efficient routes with optimal charging breaks by factoring in real-time conditions and vehicle specifics.
The Tesla app can also be leveraged by Polestar 3 drivers who use Tesla Superchargers via an adapter, as the Polestar 3 is compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network. Using the Tesla app, drivers can find available Superchargers, manage charging sessions remotely, and get notifications about charging status, which complements ABRP’s offline planning with real-time charger apps.
Common challenges during Polestar 3 road trips also include software bugs and navigation limitations, especially with non-Tesla chargers like Electrify America. The vehicle’s software is still being refined, and its navigation system requires improvement, particularly in the Southeast U.S.
However, the Polestar 3's community seems both aware and engaged, with users sharing useful tips and insights about the car's features. The seats are comfortable for long drives, making the journey more pleasant.
Despite these challenges, the Polestar 3 has seen significant success. In the first half of 2025, it shipped about 1,650 units in the U.S., after broader global success. This figure surpassed 30,300 units in the first half of the year, up ~51% over H1 2024. The Polestar 3 sold 18,049 units in Q2 2025, a 38% jump from Q2 2024, with strong global momentum.
In conclusion, while the Polestar 3 faces some challenges in hot weather and with its navigation system, particularly in the Southeast U.S., its range, compatibility with the Tesla Supercharger network, and the usefulness of apps like ABRP and the Tesla app help to mitigate these issues and make long road trips more manageable. The Polestar 3's community, comfortable seats, and impressive sales figures indicate a promising future for this luxury electric crossover.
Sports enthusiasts might find the Polestar 3's comfortable seats ideal for long road trips, enhancing the driving experience while embracing a technology-focused lifestyle on the open road. With advancements in technology like the ABRP and Tesla apps, navigating charging stops and optimizing electric driving becomes less daunting, fostering a sense of confidence among Polestar 3 drivers as they venture into sports events or leisure trips.
