The Tesla Model 3 is the best electric car money can buy right now, but it is facing serious competition from other EVs, such as Jaguar I-PACE, MINI Cooper, and many other electric cars.
Let's go over the Tesla Model 3 vs the other EVs on the market.
Tesla Model 3: Best Electric Vehicle on the Market
With the option of dual motor all-wheel drive and performance brakes, Tesla Model 3 is the quickest in terms of acceleration. It can go from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.3 seconds.
The Tesla Model 3 looks like a sedan, but it has the cargo capacity of a crossover SUV, offering ample storage space. It comes with a 15-inch touchscreen, allowing users to control all car functions virtually.
Elon Musk took Tesla to another level by substituting the car key with a smartphone app. Car owners can manage every aspect of the Tesla Model 3 from their phones.
The most significant advantage Tesla has over the other EVs in the market is its fast charging capabilities, allowing Tesla owners to fully charge their EVs in under an hour. On a single charge, the Tesla Model 3 can do up to 576 km.
Other Electric Cars Giving Tesla Model 3 Serious Competition
Let's look at some of the other electric cars competing with the likes of Tesla.
Jaguar I-PACE: Stylish, Luxurious, and a Fast Electric Car
Jag has a reputation for designing exquisitely beautiful cars, and the I-PACE is one of the sharpest electric cars on the market. Its interior is as magnificent as its exterior.
The I-PACE draws serious power from its 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It can travel, on average, up to 377 km on a single charge and go from 0 to 100 kph in just 4.8 seconds.
In terms of storage capacity, the I-PACE has 25 cubic feet of storage space that expands to 51 cubic feet when the seats are folded down.
Where the I-PACE falls short is its infotainment system borrowed from the Jaguar Land Rover, which has cumbersome software and is notorious for malfunctioning.
Overall, the I-PACE offers crossover SUV compatibility, feels luxurious, and is exciting to drive.
Mini Cooper SE Electric: Amazing Drive Experience
It looks like a regular Mini Cooper, but don't be fooled; the MINI Cooper SE Electric has an electric drive train.
Inside the MINI Cooper SE Electric, it feels like a premium car and is full of the usual MINI flair. You'll find switches and a large round infotainment system. It's a two-door car, so you won't get much boot space for cargo unless you drop the back seats.
MINI Coopers have always been a blast to ride. With instant 207 pound-feet of torque from the 135 kWh electric motor, it's seriously fast.
The electric MINI has one big disadvantage; it skimps on the range. Unlike its rivals, which can go over 300 km on a single charge, the MINI Cooper SE Electric manages just over 160 km. Other than that, it feels thrilling to drive in this bad boy. Charging the MINI's 33-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack can take about 6.5 hours.
Overall, the MINI Cooper SE Electric combines the motoring pleasure of a MINI with enough EV range to get you around the city.
Chevy Bolt EV: Compact, Great Driving Range, and Practical
Engineered around the 65 kWh LG battery pack, the Chevy Bolt EV is unique within GM's global lineup. The hatchback has sufficient storage space for a weekend getaway or a suburban grocery shopping trip.
Its interior is nicely done, but it doesn't shout luxury. However, it feels open and airy. GM's infotainment system in the Bolt EV is responsive and highly intuitive.
Charging does take a long time, but with the latest models of the Bolt EV, it can travel up to 416 km on a single charge.
The Chevy Bolt EV was one of the first mass-market electric vehicles before the Tesla Model 3, and that mission continues to drive innovation into the latest models.
Nissan Leaf: Pioneer of Electric Cars
Considered a true veteran in the EV space, the Nissan Leaf offers a pleasant interior, comfortable seats, and ample storage space to stow small items. However, sitting in the rear seats may feel cramped.
Loaded with an 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, it offers excellent value for money. It has 24 cubic feet of cargo space, and with the rear seats down, it's expandable to 30 cubic feet.
Compared to its previous versions, the latest variant of the Nissan Leaf is equipped with a 40 kWh battery pack, but you can opt for a 60 kWh one for a little extra. On a single charge, it can travel up to 341 km. Charging takes about 11.5 hours, but the fast DC charging can juice up the Nissan Leaf to 80% in just 45 minutes.
The Nissan Leaf is a pioneer in the EV market as its very first model came out before the Tesla Model S.
Comparison: Tesla Model 3 Vs Tesla Model Y
In the Australian market, Tesla dominates other EV brands with its Model S, Model Y, Model 3, and Model X.
You've most likely narrowed down the choice to the market leader Tesla but which one should you buy, the Model 3 sedan or the Model Y SUV?
Let's compare the entry-level rear-wheel drive version of the Model 3 and the Model Y.
Engine Performance
The entry-level Model 3 produces 190kW and 375Nm of instant torque, with Tesla claiming it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 6.1 seconds, while the base Model Y takes 6.9 seconds.
Although the performance variants are expensive, you're paying for a bigger battery, more range, and increased performance.
Features
Both base models share electric front seats, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a full-length glass sunroof. The centre console has storage space, four USB-C ports, and dual wireless smartphone charging trays.
The software is excellent and comes with nifty features such as sentry mode, celebration mode, and much more. All features can be accessed remotely through the Tesla app.
Drive
With immediate power delivery, both vehicles can easily beat other vehicles in the EV market. Both cars feel comfortable on freeways with adaptive cruise control and quick steering.
Comfort and Space
Both vehicles have minimalistic looks, and the seats are comfortable. The SUV has higher ground clearance, and the taller roof allows for more headspace in the Model Y vehicle.
Model Y also has an additional 13.5 cm of legroom and greater storage capacity in both the trunk and its "frunk."
Verdict
The Model Y offers more space for a greater price, while the Model 3 is a practical electric car and a bargain considering its performance and range. However, buyers would not be disappointed if they opted for a Model Y.
The Tesla supercharger network triumphs over Australia's lacklustre public charging infrastructure, making Tesla vehicles perfect for long drives. Those considering other EVs may consider charging adapters (international editions), as the original charging cables may not plug into the public charging stations.
Conclusion
Tesla is making strides in the EV world, and it's not slowing down. Currently, it offers the best specs in the market, but those on a budget also have some fantastic options to consider.
Westside Auto is here for you if you require help buying an EV that suits your needs. We have many used EVs, including international editions, and you can even trade your old car for a new one.
