Polestar 3 outperforms Porsche Macan and Audi Q6 e-tron in winter range test

A recent range test conducted in the chilly Norwegian countryside pitted three new electric SUVs against each other: the Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor, the Audi Q6 e-tron Quattro, and the Porsche Macan 4. The test, carried out by YouTube channel Kris Rifa, aimed to determine which of these high-end EVs could go the furthest on a single charge in real-world winter conditions. The results were surprising, with the Polestar 3 emerging as the clear winner.

The 121 miles test route included a mix of highways and rural roads, with temperatures hovering around -2°C (28°F). All three vehicles were driven in convoy and maintained a consistent speed of 75 mph with the climate control set to 21°C (70°F). For accuracy of the test, the cars were rotated throughout, allowing drivers to experience each vehicle and eliminate variations in driving style.

Porsche Macan and Audi Q6 e-tron share the same platform, and that led to expectations of similar range performance. The Polestar 3 with its significantly larger battery, was a little bit of a wildcard. Surprisingly, it was the Polestar 3 that offered the most refined driving experience, despite being the most affordable vehicle of the trio.

Early in the test, the Polestar 3 displayed the highest energy consumption, exceeding both the Audi and the Porsche. This raised questions about its efficiency and potential range, but as the test progressed, the Polestar 3's consumption dropped and led to a surprising outcome.

The final results revealed the Polestar 3 with a theoretical range of 225 miles, outperforming both the Audi Q6 e-tron at 222 miles and the Porsche Macan 4 at 210 miles. The Porsche's lower range may be attributed, at least in part, to its larger 21-inch wheels. The Polestar 3, even with its initial high consumption, proved the value of larger battery capacity and achieved the longest range.

Beyond range, the test also highlighted the varying charging speeds of the three EVs. With no pre-conditioning of the batteries, the Porsche Macan initially struggled, and achieved a disappointing charging speed of just 30 kW. The Polestar 3, limited by its 400-volt architecture, reached a peak charging speed of 80 kW. The Audi Q6 e-tron fell in between, and reached 100 kW.

Real-world range tests like this one provide valuable insights for prospective buyers. The Polestar 3, an underdog in this test, delivered the longest range in winter conditions. Its superior comfort and refinement challenge the established German luxury brands.

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