
Audi Q4 e-tron vs. Mercedes-Benz EQA: Complete comparison 2026
Comparison: Audi Q4 e-tron vs. Mercedes-Benz EQA. Discover the real-world range, differences in equipment, and our clear verdict for choosing the right premium used SUV.
Apr 13, 2026
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Car battle
Tesla Model Y vs. BMW iX3: A detailed test of real-world range, features, and a verdict to help you choose the right electric SUV.
April 14, 2026


We're stepping into the ring where two titans of the electric SUV world face off: the American innovator and bestseller, the Tesla Model Y, which has rewritten the rules of the game and become a global phenomenon. Against it stands a representative of the traditional German premium school, the BMW iX3, which combines the brand's proven quality and luxury with a modern electric powertrain. This battle will show whether the better bet is on revolutionary simplicity and performance, or on sophisticated and time-tested automotive excellence.
Although both vehicles fall into the same category of mid-size electric SUVs, a look at their exterior dimensions reveals different design philosophies. The Tesla Model Y is slightly larger than the BMW iX3 in most respects. It is longer, significantly wider, and has a longer wheelbase, suggesting a focus on maximum interior space and driving stability.
In contrast, the BMW iX3 opts for a more traditional and slightly more compact approach. While it is marginally shorter and narrower, it is also noticeably taller, giving it a more classic SUV silhouette. This difference in height can play a role not only in the driving feel but also in headroom. While the Model Y has a wider, sportier stance on the road, the iX3 maintains the more robust and upright posture typical of cars from Munich.
The 26 mm difference in wheelbase in Tesla's favour may not seem like much, but it often translates to more legroom for rear passengers. The difference in width is more significant – a full 3 centimetres more for the Model Y means more shoulder room. BMW counters with 44 mm more in height, which taller individuals will appreciate and which makes getting in and out easier. The choice thus depends on whether you prefer a roomier interior in terms of width and length (Tesla), or a more traditional SUV with more vertical space (BMW).
| Parameter | Tesla Model Y SUV | BMW iX3 SUV |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 4751 | 4734 |
| Width (mm) | 1921 | 1891 |
| Height (mm) | 1624 | 1668 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2890 | 2864 |
When it comes to practicality and luggage space, the Tesla Model Y and the BMW iX3 are at completely different ends of the spectrum, which is a key deciding factor for many buyers, especially families. Tesla's Model Y focuses on maximum volume and versatility, while the BMW iX3 offers a more traditionally designed but still very usable space. However, the difference between them is so striking that it can be the sole reason for choosing one car over the other.
The Tesla Model Y, in the generation produced from 2021 to 2025, outclasses the competition with a staggering basic volume of 854 litres. It should be noted, however, that this figure includes the front boot (the "frunk") with a volume of 117 litres, which is ideal for storing charging cables or smaller bags. Even without it, the rear boot is exceptionally spacious. In contrast, the BMW iX3 (2021-2025 generation) offers a solid but significantly smaller 510 litres. In practice, this means that while the iX3 can comfortably accommodate luggage for a family holiday, the Model Y offers extra space for sports equipment or a pram without having to make compromises.
With the rear seats folded down, the difference becomes even more pronounced. The Tesla Model Y transforms into a small van with a maximum volume of up to 2158 litres, allowing you to transport very bulky items like furniture or bicycles. The BMW iX3 still offers a very respectable 1560 litres with the seats folded, which is sufficient for most everyday needs, but it falls far short of the Tesla's moving capabilities. For users for whom maximum transport capacity is an absolute priority, the Tesla Model Y is the clear winner. The BMW iX3, on the other hand, offers a sufficient and well-designed space for those who do not need to regularly transport oversized loads.
| Parameter | Tesla Model Y SUV | BMW iX3 SUV |
|---|---|---|
| Basic volume (litres) | 854 | 510 |
| Max. volume with seats folded (litres) | 2158 | 1560 |
The ability to tow a trailer is becoming an increasingly important criterion even for electric cars, and it is in this discipline that one of the biggest differences between the Tesla Model Y and the BMW iX3 emerges. For many drivers, this parameter can be a deciding factor, whether they need to transport sports equipment, a small caravan, or building materials. While one of the models offers figures comparable to cars with internal combustion engines, the other is significantly limited in this respect.
The Tesla Model Y, across all its versions (Long Range and Performance) from 2021–2025, consistently offers a generous maximum braked towing capacity of up to 1600 kg. This makes it an exceptionally practical companion that can easily tow most unbraked trailers, smaller caravans, or a boat trailer. For families planning active holidays, this is a key advantage.
On the other hand, the BMW iX3 (G08 generation, produced from 2021–2025) falls short in this comparison. Its maximum permitted braked towing capacity is just 750 kg. While this is sufficient for a light unbraked trailer for garden waste or transporting a few bicycles, you can forget about towing a larger load or a caravan. For users for whom a tow hitch is a necessity, the Model Y is clearly the more capable choice.
| Model and Engine Version | Braked Towing Capacity (kg) | Unbraked Towing Capacity (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model Y (all versions) | 1600 | 750 |
| BMW iX3 (G08) | 750 | 750 |
When choosing between the Tesla Model Y and the BMW iX3, the range of powertrains plays a key role and reveals the completely different strategies of the two manufacturers. While Tesla bets on a wide range of variants with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive and various performance levels, BMW chose the path of simplicity for the G08 generation – a single powerful and efficient electric motor driving the rear wheels. This choice fundamentally affects not only the dynamics and handling of the car under different conditions but also the target customer group. Buyers are thus faced with a decision: whether to prefer the versatility and choice offered by Tesla, or the precisely tuned and straightforward offering from BMW.
The Tesla Model Y offers several variants on the used car market, differing in performance, range, and drive type. The base is the rear-wheel drive (RWD) version, which is ideal for drivers who prefer a lower purchase price and high efficiency in daily use. For more demanding customers, there are the Long Range and Performance versions, both with all-wheel drive (AWD) thanks to a dual-motor system. The Long Range variant represents an optimal compromise between long range and impressive dynamics, while the Performance model pushes the boundaries of acceleration to supercar levels and is the choice for those seeking maximum adrenaline.
| Engine Type | Fuel | Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model Y (RWD) | Electric | 220 | 420 | 1-speed automatic |
| Model Y Long Range (AWD) | Electric | 378 | 493 | 1-speed automatic |
| Model Y Performance (AWD) | Electric | 393 | 660 | 1-speed automatic |
Unlike Tesla, BMW opted for a single, yet carefully tuned, engine version for the iX3 G08 generation (produced from 2021 to 2025). All iX3 cars from this period are equipped with a single electric motor that drives the rear axle. This solution is typical for the BMW brand and delivers engaging driving characteristics with an emphasis on agility and balance. The power output of 210 kW (286 hp) and torque of 400 Nm provide the car with confident dynamics for everyday use and longer journeys. The facelift at the end of 2021 brought design changes, but the proven powertrain remained unchanged. For those interested in a used car, the choice is simple and focuses more on the equipment level than on the technology under the bonnet.
| Engine Type | Fuel | Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iX3 (G08) | Electric | 210 | 400 | 1-speed automatic |
Choosing the right powertrain is crucial for long-term satisfaction with electric vehicles. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world range, owner feedback, and overall reliability. Tesla and BMW approach electric propulsion differently: Tesla focuses on stunning performance and its own charging network, while BMW concentrates on maximum efficiency and premium driving comfort, which is reflected in their only available engine versions for the compared generations.
The most balanced and popular choice in the Model Y lineup is the Maximum Range all-wheel-drive version, often referred to as Long Range. It offers the best compromise between range, performance, and practicality for everyday use. The two electric motors provide a system output of over 500 hp, guaranteeing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5 seconds. This is sports-car-level dynamics, available instantly at any time. Thanks to a battery with a usable capacity of around 75 kWh, the real-world range is over 450 km in the summer months; expect a drop to around 350 km in winter. The main advantage is the unparalleled access to the Tesla Supercharger network of fast-charging stations, which makes long-distance travel completely hassle-free. Among the weaker points for older model years (around 2021-2022) were inconsistent interior build quality and panel gap alignment. The suspension is also tuned in a rather stiff, sporty style. This version is ideal for families and drivers who frequently travel long distances and require the assurance of all-wheel drive and fast charging.
The BMW iX3 in the G08 generation (2021-2025) was offered with a single, yet perfectly tuned powertrain. The 210 kW (286 hp) electric motor powers the rear wheels exclusively, which is typical for BMW and delivers driving pleasure. Although on paper, its performance lags behind Tesla, in the real world, the dynamics are more than sufficient, and the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds certainly won't disappoint. However, the main advantage of the iX3 is its exceptional efficiency. Thanks to sophisticated technology and aerodynamics, real-world consumption is around 19 kWh/100 km, which is an excellent value for an SUV of this size. The battery with a usable capacity of 74 kWh thus ensures a reliable real-world range of around 400 km. Unlike Tesla, the iX3 offers top-notch build quality, a traditionally luxurious interior, and excellent ride comfort. A weakness for some may be the absence of all-wheel drive, which could be a limitation in harsh winter conditions. The BMW iX3 is thus a perfect choice for drivers transitioning from premium combustion engine cars who are looking for comfort, quality, and traditional driving characteristics in an electric package and don't need extreme acceleration or 4x4 drive.
Official consumption figures, measured in the WLTP laboratory cycle, are one thing, but real-world driving often shows different numbers. That's why we looked at data from drivers themselves, primarily from the German portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects real-world consumption data from thousands of owners. And the results are very interesting for those interested in a used electric car.
In a direct comparison of relevant versions, i.e., models up to about four years old, the Tesla Model Y emerges as a noticeably more economical car. Its sophisticated aerodynamics and efficient powertrain result in lower energy demands across all versions.
| Model and Powertrain | Average Real-world Consumption (kWh/100 km) |
|---|---|
| Tesla Model Y | |
| Standard Range / RWD | 17.5 |
| Long Range AWD | 19.1 |
| Performance AWD | 20.5 |
| BMW iX3 | |
| G08 (210 kW) | 21.2 |
Note: The values are an average from multiple sources and may vary depending on driving style, weather conditions, and vehicle equipment.
It is clear from the table that even the most powerful Tesla Model Y Performance has real-world consumption comparable to, or even slightly lower than, the single version of the BMW iX3. The base version of the Model Y with rear-wheel drive is then clearly the most economical choice, which will be especially appreciated by drivers with high annual mileage for whom the price per kilowatt-hour is key.
A difference of about 2-3 kWh/100 km in favor of the Tesla may not seem dramatic, but with an annual mileage of 20,000 km, it already represents a saving of 400-600 kWh. For drivers who often travel longer distances and use motorways, where the advantage of Tesla's better aerodynamics is most apparent, this difference will be even more noticeable. In city traffic, on the other hand, the consumption of both cars is closer. For the buyer looking for maximum efficiency and the lowest operating costs, the Tesla Model Y is the clear favorite from a consumption perspective.
When deciding between a Tesla Model Y and a BMW iX3 on the used car market, price plays a key role. Both models, as premium electric SUVs, hold their value well, but their price ranges differ depending on the version, mileage, and equipment. We looked at models that are approximately four years old, around the 2022 model year.
The Tesla Model Y, as one of the best-selling electric cars, has a significantly wider presence on the used car market. This has a positive effect on both availability and price variability.
A used 2022 Tesla Model Y on the Czech market most often ranges in price from €30,000 to €37,000. According to available data, the average price is around €33,000.
The BMW iX3 is rarer on the used car market, reflecting its originally higher purchase price and lower sales volume compared to the Model Y. This is also reflected in its price as a used car.
The price of a used 2022 BMW iX3 typically ranges from €35,000 to approximately €45,000.
From a purely price-based perspective, the more affordable choice is the Tesla Model Y. Thanks to its wider availability on the market, it is easier to find a unit that fits the desired budget, and its starting price is noticeably lower.
In contrast, the BMW iX3 represents an investment in a more premium segment with less choice, but with the promise of traditional BMW quality and craftsmanship. Its higher price as a used car corresponds to its position in the new car market. The choice thus depends on the buyer's preferences – whether they prefer the availability and wider selection of the Tesla, or the exclusivity and traditional concept of luxury of the BMW.
When evaluating safety, it might seem at first glance that there is no difference between the Tesla Model Y and the BMW iX3 – both cars boast a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. However, this figure needs to be seen in context, as testing methodology has become significantly stricter over time. Therefore, a direct comparison of percentage results from different years is not entirely conclusive. More recent tests place much greater emphasis on active safety assistants and the protection of vulnerable road users.
The Tesla Model Y underwent Euro NCAP crash tests in 2022 according to one of the latest and most stringent methodologies. The results were absolutely dominant. The car achieved one of the highest overall scores in the organization's history. An excellent rating of 97% for adult occupant protection and a near-perfect 98% in the safety assist systems category demonstrate how modern and sophisticated its safety equipment is. Systems like autonomous emergency braking, which reacts to pedestrians, cyclists, and potential collisions at intersections, and advanced lane-keeping assist function with exceptional precision.
The safety rating of the BMW iX3 is derived from the related BMW X3 model, which was tested back in 2017. Although five stars is still an excellent result, the testing protocols at that time were significantly more lenient. This is particularly evident in the lower score for safety assistants (58%), where the standards of the time were nowhere near as demanding as they are today. Nevertheless, the iX3 offers a solid level of passive safety with 93% protection for adults and 84% for children. In 2021, Euro NCAP did separately evaluate the iX3's assistance systems in its "Highway Assist" tests, where it performed very well, but this assessment did not cover crash tests or the overall safety of the vehicle.
Although both cars are safe and have five stars, the Tesla Model Y demonstrates its technological superiority thanks to tests conducted under more modern and demanding standards. Its results in active safety and occupant protection are a benchmark in its class. The BMW iX3's rating, while still valid, is based on an older methodology that does not fully reflect the current capabilities and requirements for safety technology. For a buyer who places maximum emphasis on the latest safety standards, the Tesla Model Y is clearly the more modern and more comprehensively tested choice.
| Parameter | Tesla Model Y | BMW iX3 |
|---|---|---|
| Year of Testing | 2022 | 2017 |
| Adult Occupant Protection | 97 % | 93 % |
| Child Occupant Protection | 87 % | 84 % |
| Vulnerable Road User Protection | 82 % | 70 % |
| Safety Assist Systems | 98 % | 58 % |
In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for a potential buyer, and each approaches innovation and comfort in its own way.
Tesla bets on centralized control and software gadgets that define the driving and ownership experience.
The BMW iX3 combines an electric powertrain with a proven approach to design, ergonomics, and premium features that the brand's customers are accustomed to.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
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Based on data from technical inspections, reliability statistics like the German TÜV Report, and owner feedback, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for.
The Tesla Model Y faces problems that can be divided into two main categories: build quality and the mechanical durability of some components. Cars from the first years of production (approximately 2020–2022) in particular show shortcomings that have been partially mitigated in newer units from the Shanghai and Berlin factories.
Summary for the Tesla Model Y: The issues primarily concern build quality and higher wear on suspension components and brakes, as confirmed by independent technical inspections. These are generally not faults that would immobilize the vehicle, but they require increased attention and potential investment when buying a used model. A comprehensive vehicle inspection is key here.
The BMW iX3 is built on the proven platform of the X3 model, which helps it avoid many "growing pains." Its reliability is generally rated as good, but a few specific areas deserve attention.
Summary for the BMW iX3: Most of the reported problems with the iX3 are minor software glitches or isolated mechanical noises that do not compromise the overall reliability of the car. Unlike the Tesla, there are no systematic issues with build quality or premature wear of key mechanical parts. These are more like partial inconveniences, many of which can be resolved with a software update.
A thorough inspection is crucial when buying a used car, especially for electric vehicles with complex technology. Here are a few specific points to focus on with these two models to avoid potential problems.
The Tesla Model Y Long Range offers a slightly longer real-world range under ideal conditions, which can exceed 450 km. The BMW iX3 is around 400 km. However, both ranges are highly dependent on driving style and external conditions, especially in winter.
The Tesla Model Y can charge faster, with a power of up to 250 kW. The BMW iX3 supports charging with a power of up to 150 kW. In practice, Tesla's biggest advantage is the denser and more reliable Supercharger network of fast-charging stations.
The Tesla Model Y is the more practical choice in terms of overall storage space. It offers a huge rear boot and also a front boot ('frunk'), which the BMW iX3 lacks. Although the dimensions of both cars are very similar, the Tesla makes better use of the interior space for luggage, which families on longer trips will especially appreciate.
The interior of the BMW iX3 is more traditional, with premium materials, a digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, and a combination of a touchscreen display with physical buttons. The Tesla Model Y relies on a minimalist design where almost everything is controlled via a single large central display. Unlike Tesla, the BMW also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Tesla Model Y, especially in the Long Range version, has significantly better acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (around 5 seconds) compared to the BMW iX3 (6.8 seconds). The BMW, on the other hand, focuses on more balanced and comfortable driving characteristics, which some drivers prefer for daily driving.
Sources: ADAC, evo.co.uk, carwow.co.uk, caranddriver.com, electrek.co, electricvehicleweb.com
This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.

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