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Tesla Model 3 (2019-2023) vs Tesla Model Y (2022-2025)
Selected trimLong Range Dual Motor · 2019-23Change trim374 mi · 75 kWh · Not available
Selected trimLong Range Dual Motor · 2022-25Change trim331 mi · 78.1 kWh · Not available
At a glance
In this comparison, Tesla Model 3 leads on motorway range, running costs and city driving, while the Tesla Model Y leads on family practicality and charging speed.
Best value
Too close to call
Range & charging
Too close to call
Practicality
Too close to call
Which should you choose?
Choose the Tesla Model 3 (2019-2023) if...
- you do long motorway journeys - it has the best estimated real-world range at speed
- you want the lowest running costs - from just 1.7p per mile on off-peak electricity
- you need the best car for city driving and tight parking
Choose the Tesla Model Y (2022-2025) if...
- you need the most family-friendly option with good safety and space
- you need the fastest charging of these options
How we reached the recommendation
Verdict
Our take
The Tesla Model 3 leads in the most categories, but each car here has its strengths.
Motorway RangeModel 3
Model 3
7.2
Model Y
5.9
FamilyModel Y
Model 3
5.8
Model Y
7.7
ChargingModel Y
Model 3
5.6
Model Y
7.8
Cost Per MileModel 3
Model 3
9.4
Model Y
4.5
City DrivingModel 3
Model 3
3.9
Model Y
2.9
What each car does better
See the specification differences behind the verdict, with supporting figures for each advantage.
Key specifications
Compare the key specifications for your selected trims.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Official range | 374 miles (better) | 331 miles |
| Boot space | 561 L | 854 L (better) |
| 0-62 mph | 4.4 sec (better) | 5 sec |
Size Comparison
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Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model Y
Length
Tesla Model 34,695mm-56mm
Tesla Model Y4,751mm
Width
Tesla Model 31,850mm-71mm
Tesla Model Y1,921mm
Height
Tesla Model 31,445mm-179mm
Tesla Model Y1,624mm
Space, size & parking
Parking & manoeuvring
Compare exterior dimensions to assess how each car fits UK parking spaces.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,695 mm | 4,751 mm |
| Width (mirrors folded) | 1,850 mm (better) | 1,921 mm |
| Width with mirrors out | 2,088 mm (better) | 2,129 mm |
| Height | 1,445 mm | 1,624 mm |
| Turning circle | 11.6 m (better) | 12.1 m |
| Clearance in a standard bayA standard UK parking bay is 2,400 mm wide. | 550 mm spare (better) | 479 mm spare |
People & luggage
Compare seating, child-seat mounting points, boot space and towing capacity.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Boot space (seats up) | 561 L | 854 L (better) |
| Boot space (seats down) | Not available | 2118 L |
| Frunk | 88 L | 117 L (better) |
| Towing capacity (braked) | Not available | 1,600 kg |
How each stacks up
Percentile ranks against UK EVs of the same body style.
Tesla Model 3
- A 88 L frunk, one of 13 of 234 UK EVs in our catalogue with a front boot of 88 L or more.
- At 4,695 mm, shorter than 90% of saloon EVs in our UK catalogue.
- Boot space of 561 L is bigger than 85% of saloon EVs we track.
Tesla Model Y
- 3rd-largest boot among SUVs in our catalogue at 854 L.
- A 117 L frunk, one of 7 of 234 UK EVs in our catalogue with a front boot of 117 L or more.
- Peak DC charging of 250 kW, faster than 80% of SUVs in our catalogue.
Full specifications
| Specification |  Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor |  Tesla Model Y Long Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 4.70m | 4.75m+56mm |
| Width | 1.85m | 1.92m+71mm |
| Width (mirrors) | 2.09m | 2.13m+41mm |
| Height | 1.45m | 1.62m+179mm |
| Wheelbase | 2.88m | 2.89m+15mm |
| Ground Clearance | 140mm | 172mm+32mm |
| Capacity | ||
| Boot (seats up) | 561L* | 854L* (better) |
| Boot (seats down) | Not available | 2118L |
| Frunk | 88L | 117L (better) |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Practicality | ||
| Turning Circle | 11.6m (better) | 12.1m |
| Kerb Weight | 1,830kg (better) | 1,979kg |
| Towing Capacity | Not available | 1,600kg |
| Electric | ||
| Battery | 75kWh | 78.1kWh (better) |
| Range (WLTP) | 374 mi (better) | 331 mi |
| Max DC Charge | 250kW | 250kW |
| Pricing | ||
| UK MSRP | Not available | Not available |
| Details | ||
| Body Style | Saloon | SUV |
| Available | 2019–2023 | 2022–2025 |
* Tesla Model 3: Tesla quotes 561 L behind the rear seats, measured to the roof including the under-floor well (649 L with the 88 L front trunk). Not directly comparable to VDA figures used by other brands.
* Tesla Model 3: Manufacturer does not publish battery capacity; figure verified from multiple independent sources. Pack size and chemistry changed during production.
* Tesla Model Y: Tesla quotes 854 L behind the rear seats, measured to the roof including the under-floor well (971 L with the 117 L front trunk). Not directly comparable to VDA figures used by other brands.
* Tesla Model Y: Manufacturer does not publish battery capacity; figure verified from multiple independent sources.
* Tesla Model Y: WLTP as quoted by Tesla UK for 2022-2025 cars.
Range & charging
Range, charging & battery
Check official and estimated driving range alongside charging speeds, efficiency and battery technology.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Official range (WLTP) | 374 miles (better) | 331 miles |
| Estimated motorway rangeEVcarsguide estimate at sustained motorway speed. | 312 miles (better) | 247 miles |
| Max rapid charge rate | 250 kW | 250 kW |
| Home AC charging | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Energy consumption | Not available | 157 Wh/km |
| Usable battery capacity | 75 kWh | 75 kWh |
| Battery chemistry | NMC | NMC |
| Heat pump | Not available | Standard |
Driving & everyday use
Performance & drivetrain
Compare acceleration, power and drivetrain specifications for the selected trims.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| 0-62 mph | 4.4 sec (better) | 5 sec |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Prices & deals
New and used prices
Current pricing and recent used-market behaviour.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Used market price from | £14,840 | £21,300 |
| Average used price | £18,820 | £24,950 |
| Active used listings trackedIndependent UK dealer listings seen in the last 90 days. | 122 listings | 425 listings (better) |
| Recent used-price trend | Up 39.4% over ~6 months | Down 10.5% over ~6 months |
Used prices are indicative figures gathered from independent UK dealer listings and change frequently.
Calculate your real costs
For a useful running-cost comparison, factor in your mileage, charging access and current petrol or diesel car alongside the EV estimate.
Compare with petrol or diesel
Compare purchase price, energy, road tax and maintenance with a petrol or diesel alternative.
Calculate company-car tax
Work out monthly Benefit-in-Kind using current and future HMRC rates.
Cost per mile
Compare EV charging costs per mile with petrol and diesel using your charging options.
Check a lease quote
Assess the effective monthly cost alongside the list price and expected depreciation.
Safety & ownership confidence
Euro NCAP - Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor
Tested 2019
Adult Occupant96%
Child Occupant86%
Vulnerable Road Users74%
Safety Assist94%
Full result on euroncap.com (opens in new tab)
Euro NCAP - Tesla Model Y Long Range Dual Motor
Tested 2022
Adult Occupant97%
Child Occupant87%
Vulnerable Road Users82%
Safety Assist98%
Full result on euroncap.com (opens in new tab)
Warranty
Check the published battery warranty cover for each selected trim.
| Measure | Tesla Model 3Long Range Dual Motor | Tesla Model YLong Range Dual Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Battery warranty | 8 years | 8 years |
| Battery warranty distance | 193,121 km | 193,121 km |
What owners say
Aggregated from UK owner forums and communities - the things you only learn after living with the car.
Shared watch-outs for both cars
Owners of every car here flag firm ride comfort, infotainment & software, interior material quality. Worth checking on a test drive whichever you choose.
Tesla Model 3
Long Range Dual Motor
Owners love
- Exceptional acceleration and instant torque delivery create an engaging, fun driving experience comparable to sports cars
- Excellent efficiency and low running costs—approximately 1.5-2.2p per mile on home charging versus £16-18p per mile for petrol equivalents
- Minimal maintenance required with no oil changes, long-lasting brake pads due to regenerative braking, and strong battery longevity (minimal degradation over 100k+ miles)
Watch out for
- Suspension is firm and transmits road imperfections harshly, particularly uncomfortable over UK potholes and rough roads; worsens with larger wheel sizes
- Build quality inconsistencies including panel gaps, door/boot misalignment, soft paint prone to stone chips, and varying quality between individual cars
- Autopilot system has documented reliability issues including phantom braking, unreliable high-beam assist, and occasionally dangerous steering corrections
Owner tips
- Prioritize Chinese-built models from 2021 onwards (VIN starting LRW, 71 plates) over US-made Fremont cars for noticeably superior build quality and features like heat pumps
- Use 18-inch wheels with softer sidewall tires for better ride comfort on UK roads; avoid 20-inch Performance wheels which bend easily and worsen harshness
Tesla Model Y
Long Range Dual Motor
Owners love
- Supercharger network makes long-distance travel easy, with little charging anxiety and simple trip planning
- Spacious and practical: a big boot plus a front boot suits families and road trips
- Efficient, so running costs are low, especially on a cheap overnight home tariff
Watch out for
- Firm suspension: many owners find the ride harsh on rough roads, especially on larger wheels
- Several owners report headlights aimed too high after software updates, dazzling oncoming drivers, and re-aim them in the service menu
- Insurance quotes run well above comparable EVs, owners report
Owner tips
- Choose 19-inch wheels over 21-inch if ride comfort matters
- Set tyre pressures to the label on the door pillar; some cars arrive over-inflated, which makes the ride harsher
Buying options
Get a quote
Tesla Model 3
Used on AutoTraderLease deals
Tesla Model Y
Used on AutoTraderLease deals
Live used listings
Active inventory from independent UK dealers.
Tesla Model 3
- £48,4952020EVHEROView
- £31,9952021EVHEROView
- £22,0922021Car360View
Tesla Model Y
- £23,5002023EVHEROView
- £22,9002022EVHEROView
- £26,7572023Car360View
Frequently asked questions
What are the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y like on a long motorway trip?
EVcarsguide estimates a real-world motorway range of about 312 miles for the Tesla Model 3 and 247 miles for the Tesla Model Y - both below their WLTP figures, because sustained high speed is the hardest case for an EV. The Tesla Model 3 goes roughly 65 miles further between charging stops.
Which is easier to park and drive in town, the Tesla Model 3 or the Tesla Model Y?
The Tesla Model 3 is the easier car for tight UK car parks: it is 71 mm narrower than the Tesla Model Y. In a standard 2,400 mm bay that leaves about 550 mm of total clearance for the Tesla Model 3 and about 479 mm of total clearance for the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model 3 also turns in a 0.5 m tighter circle, which helps with U-turns and multi-storey ramps.
Which battery will hold up better as a used buy, the Tesla Model 3 or the Tesla Model Y?
Over a 8-year ownership window EVcarsguide's degradation model projects roughly 85% battery health for the Tesla Model 3 and 84% for the Tesla Model Y. That is close enough that capacity loss should not decide between them. Both use NMC-type cells, so for daily use keep the charge limit near 80% to slow degradation. Both batteries carry a 8-year manufacturer warranty.
Go deeper on each car
Visit the full model pages for owner feedback, expert reviews, used prices and battery-health information.
Compare against other rivals
Compare similarly sized and priced electric cars before finalising your shortlist.
More Tesla Model 3 comparisons
More Tesla Model Y comparisons
See both cars in our rankings
EVcarsguide scores every verified EV on price, range, family use and running costs. Here is where this pair appears.
Where the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among the best family EVsWhere the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among long-range EVsWhere the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among the best motorway EVsWhere the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among the best city EVsWhere the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among the cheapest EVs to runWhere the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y rank among EVs with the biggest boots
If neither is quite right
Explore other verified electric cars that may better suit the priorities this pair does not meet.
Further reading
Explore buying and ownership guides to help you choose between these electric cars.
GuideBuying a Used Tesla Model 3 (2019-2023): Which Version, Range, Warranty & What to Check
A used Tesla Model 3 buyer’s guide: Standard Range Plus vs RWD vs Long Range vs Performance, LFP or lithium-ion, heat pump by year, warranty left, recalls, real-world range, what to pay and a printable checklist.
Guide
Buying a Used Tesla Model Y (2022-2025): Which Version, Range, Warranty & What to Check
A used Tesla Model Y buyer’s guide: Rear-Wheel Drive vs Long Range vs Performance, LFP or lithium-ion, warranty left, the firm ride, recalls, real-world range, what to pay and a printable checklist.
Data accuracy
Specs are sourced from manufacturer websites and manually reviewed. These figures were last verified .