Three-phase two-level voltage source PWM rectifiers are widely used in medium and high power applications. The traditional double closed loop PI control will generate a large inrush current when starting, and will show poor dynamic response characteristics when the load suddenly increases or unloads. In order to solve the above problems, this paper proposes an improved control strategy based on the mathematical model of the rectifier. This strategy is given by the DC reference voltage gentle curve and combined with the voltage outer loop design using the square of the voltage as the control quantity; in addition, a reactive current feedforward compensation mechanism based on the capacitor current is introduced during system startup. The improved strategy suppresses the integral saturation phenomenon of the PI controller, significantly reduces the start-up current impact, and improves the stability and operational reliability of the system. The simulation results verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method, and provide reliable technical support for the practical engineering application of PWM rectifiers.