Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y: 2026 Comparison
The Model 3 is a compact sedan with better efficiency and lower cost starting at $38,990, while the Model Y is a larger SUV with more cargo space (76 cu ft vs 28 cu ft), higher seating capacity, and starts at $43,990. Choose based on whether you prioritize affordability and performance or need more space and versatility.
Tesla Model 3
American electric sedan emphasizing performance, range, and affordable EV access
Single professionals, couples, commuters prioritizing efficiency and cost savings
Tesla Model Y
Mid-size electric SUV with spacious interior and optional seven-seat configuration
Families needing space, buyers prioritizing cargo capacity and versatility over efficiency
Quick Answer
AI SummaryThe Model 3 is a compact sedan with better efficiency and lower cost starting at $38,990, while the Model Y is a larger SUV with more cargo space (76 cu ft vs 28 cu ft), higher seating capacity, and starts at $43,990. Choose based on whether you prioritize affordability and performance or need more space and versatility.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the Model 3 if you prioritize efficiency, performance, lower cost, and easier maneuverability in urban environments—it's the better daily driver for single occupants or couples. Choose the Model Y if you need SUV versatility, more cargo capacity, optional third-row seating for families, and don't mind spending an extra $5,000 for significantly more interior space.
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Best pickSingle professionals, couples, commuters prioritizing efficiency and cost savings
Choose Tesla Model Y if
Families needing space, buyers prioritizing cargo capacity and versatility over efficiency
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Starting Price:✓ Tesla Model 3 wins($38,990 vs $43,990)
- Cargo Space:✓ Tesla Model Y wins(76 cubic feet vs 28 cubic feet)
- EPA Range (Standard):✓ Tesla Model 3 wins(272 miles vs 260 miles)
Key Facts & Figures
89 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Tesla Model 3 | Tesla Model Y | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA Range(miles) | 358 | — | — |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 3.1 seconds | 3.5 seconds | |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 | 7 (optional) | |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,630 | $43,990 | |
| EPA Range (Long Range RWD)(miles) | 341 miles | 330 miles | |
| Lateral Cornering G-Force(g) | 0.97g | 0.95g | |
| Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cu ft | 76 cu ft | |
| Combined MPGe Efficiency(MPGe) | 140 MPGe | 134 MPGe | |
| 5-Year Cost-to-Own(USD) | $66,731 | $75,450 | |
| Ground Clearance(inches) | 5.5 inches | 8.6 inches | |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd)(Cd) | 0.219 | 0.260 | |
| Electric Range(miles) | 321 mi | 357 | |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,000 | — | — |
| Home Charging Time (240V)(hours) | 12.1 | 10.0 | |
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 24.1 | 33.1 | |
| Total Seating(passengers) | 5 | — | — |
| Starting Price (Base Model)(USD) | $38,990 | $43,990 | |
| EPA Range (Standard/Base)(miles) | 272 miles | 260 miles | |
| 0-60 mph Time (Long Range)(seconds) | 5.1 seconds | 5.9 seconds | |
| Cargo Space (Max)(cubic feet) | 20.8 cu ft | 76.0 cu ft | |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 2,248 lbs | 3,500 lbs | |
| EPA Combined Efficiency(MPGe) | 132 MPGe | 120 MPGe | |
| Seating Capacity (Max)(passengers) | 5 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| Ground Clearance(inches) | 5.5 inches | 8.6 inches | |
| 0-60 Acceleration(seconds) | 3.1 seconds (RWD) | 3.5 seconds | |
| EPA Range (Base)(miles) | 358 miles | — | — |
| DC Fast Charge (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 min | — | — |
| Supercharger/Fast Charging Network(locations) | 50,000+ | — | — |
| Total Cargo Space(cu ft) | 28 cu ft | — | — |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 35.4 inches | 41.4 inches | |
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $38,990 | $43,990 | |
| EPA Estimated Range(miles) | 358 miles | 330 miles | |
| Battery Capacity (Standard)(kWh) | 60 kWh | — | — |
| Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 28.3 cu ft | 28.0 cu ft | |
| Curb Weight (Standard)(pounds) | 3,552 lbs | — | — |
| Weight (Long Range)(lbs) | 4,245 lbs | — | — |
| 0-60 Acceleration (RWD)(seconds) | 5.8 seconds | — | — |
| EPA Range (RWD)(miles) | 358 miles | — | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $43,990 | — | — |
| Battery Capacity (Standard)(kWh) | 60 kWh (usable) | — | — |
| Infotainment Touchscreen Size(inches) | 15.4 inches (portrait) | — | — |
| Public Charging Locations Available(count) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — | — |
| DC Fast Charging Speed (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 minutes (Supercharger) | — | — |
| EPA Efficiency Rating(kWh/100 miles) | 26 kWh/100mi (Model 3 RWD) | — | — |
| EPA Maximum Range(miles) | 358 miles (RWD) | — | — |
| Fast Charging Network Size(locations globally) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — | — |
| Total Interior Space(cubic feet) | 96.9 cu ft (rear legroom 37.2 in) | — | — |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) | 5.1 seconds | — | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $38,990 | $43,990 | |
| Battery Capacity (Long Range)(kWh) | 75 kWh | — | — |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 15-inch vertical | — | — |
| Curb Weight (Long Range)(lbs) | 3,582 lbs | — | — |
| EPA Range (Standard Battery)(miles) | 272 miles | 260 miles | |
| Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cubic feet | 76 cubic feet | |
| Maximum Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 passengers | 7 passengers (with 3rd row) | |
| Towing Capacity(pounds) | 2,248 lbs | 3,500 lbs | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Long Range)(seconds) | 3.1 seconds | 4.8 seconds | |
| EPA Range (Base Model)(miles) | 272 miles | — | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,990 | $52,990 | |
| Usable Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cu ft | — | — |
| Infotainment Display(inches) | 15.4 inches | 17-inch touchscreen | |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%)(minutes) | 25 minutes | 10 minutes | |
| Horsepower(hp) | 295 | 295 | |
| Torque(lb-ft) | 310 | 310 | |
| Seating Capacity(seats) | 5 | 5 | |
| Starting Price(USD) | $52,990 | $52,990 | |
| EPA Combined Range(miles) | 330 miles | 330 miles | |
| 0-60 mph (Best Model)(seconds) | 3.5 seconds | 3.5 seconds | |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 minutes | 27 minutes | |
| Total Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 76 cubic feet | 76 cubic feet | |
| Infotainment Screen(inches) | 15 inches | 15 inches | |
| Charging Network Size(stations) | 50,000+ Superchargers | 50,000+ Superchargers | |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration (AWD)(seconds) | 3.1 sec | 3.1 sec | |
| EPA Range (RWD Base)(miles) | 330 miles | 330 miles | |
| Public Charging Network Access(locations) | 50,000+ Superchargers | 50,000+ Superchargers | |
| Curb Weight (RWD)(pounds) | 4,416 lbs | 4,416 lbs | |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $43,990 | $43,990 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Base)(seconds) | 3.5 sec | 3.5 sec | |
| EPA Range (Most Efficient)(miles) | 330 miles | 330 miles | |
| Vehicle Length(inches) | 187 in | 187 in | |
| Cargo Capacity(liters) | 28.3 cu ft | 28.3 cu ft | |
| Battery Warranty (Years)(years) | 8 years | 8 years | |
| Curb Weight (Base)(kg) | 5,521 lbs | 5,521 lbs | |
| EPA Range (Standard Model)(miles) | 330 miles | 330 miles | |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration(seconds) | 2.9 seconds | 2.9 seconds | |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 seats | 5 seats | |
| Supercharger Network Access(stations (global)) | 50,000+ exclusive stations | 50,000+ exclusive stations | |
| Energy Efficiency(miles/kWh) | 3.8 mi/kWh | 3.8 mi/kWh | |
| EPA Range (Long Range)(miles) | 330 miles | 330 miles |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
- $38,990(winner)Starting Price$43,990
- 28 cubic feetCargo Space76 cubic feet(winner)
- 272 miles(winner)EPA Range (Standard)260 miles
- 4.2 seconds(winner)0-60 Acceleration (Long Range)4.8 seconds
- 5 passengersSeating CapacityUp to 7 passengers (with optional 3rd row)(winner)
- 132 MPGe(winner)Efficiency (EPA Combined)120 MPGe
- 34.8 feet(winner)Turning Radius39.4 feet
- Starting Price
Tesla Model 3
$38,990(winner)
Tesla Model Y
$43,990
- Cargo Space
Tesla Model 3
28 cubic feet
Tesla Model Y
76 cubic feet(winner)
- EPA Range (Standard)
Tesla Model 3
272 miles(winner)
Tesla Model Y
260 miles
- 0-60 Acceleration (Long Range)
Tesla Model 3
4.2 seconds(winner)
Tesla Model Y
4.8 seconds
- Seating Capacity
Tesla Model 3
5 passengers
Tesla Model Y
Up to 7 passengers (with optional 3rd row)(winner)
- Efficiency (EPA Combined)
Tesla Model 3
132 MPGe(winner)
Tesla Model Y
120 MPGe
- Turning Radius
Tesla Model 3
34.8 feet(winner)
Tesla Model Y
39.4 feet
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Tesla Model 3 | Tesla Model Y |
|---|---|---|
| EPA Range(miles) | 358 | — |
| Cargo Space (Max)(cubic feet) | 20.8 cu ft | 76.0 cu ft(winner) |
| Seating Capacity (Max)(passengers) | 5 passengers | 7 passengers(winner) |
| Total Cargo Space(cu ft) | 28 cu ft | — |
| Usable Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cu ft | — |
Show 2 more attributesSeating Capacity(seats) 5 — Seating Capacity(passengers) 5 seats — | ||
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 3.1 seconds(winner) | 3.5 seconds |
| EPA Range (Long Range RWD)(miles) | 341 miles(winner) | 330 miles |
| Battery Pack Size(kWh) | Configurable | — |
| Electric Range(miles) | 321 mi | 357(winner) |
| DC Fast Charging Speed(kW) | Standard | — |
Show 17 more attributesCurb Weight(kg) 1,844 — Top Speed(mph) 125 — EPA Range (Standard/Base)(miles) 272 miles 260 miles 0-60 mph Time (Long Range)(seconds) 5.1 seconds 5.9 seconds 0-60 Acceleration(seconds) 3.1 seconds (RWD) 3.5 seconds 0-60 Acceleration (RWD)(seconds) 5.8 seconds — 0-60 Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) 5.1 seconds — EPA Range (Standard Battery)(miles) 272 miles 260 miles 0-60 Acceleration (Long Range)(seconds) 3.1 seconds 4.8 seconds Horsepower(hp) 295 — Torque(lb-ft) 310 — EPA Combined Range(miles) 330 miles — 0-60 mph (Best Model)(seconds) 3.5 seconds — 0-60 MPH Acceleration (AWD)(seconds) 3.1 sec — 0-60 Acceleration (Base)(seconds) 3.5 sec — EPA Range (Standard Model)(miles) 330 miles — 0-60 MPH Acceleration(seconds) 2.9 seconds — | ||
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 | 7 (optional)(winner) |
| Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cu ft | 76 cu ft(winner) |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,630(winner) | $43,990 |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,000 | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $43,990 | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $38,990(winner) | $43,990 |
| Lateral Cornering G-Force(g) | 0.97g(winner) | 0.95g |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV/Crossover |
| Ground Clearance(inches) | 5.5 inches | 8.6 inches(winner) |
| Combined MPGe Efficiency(MPGe) | 140 MPGe(winner) | 134 MPGe |
| EPA Electric Range(miles) | 321 | — |
| EPA Combined Efficiency(MPGe) | 132 MPGe(winner) | 120 MPGe |
| EPA Efficiency Rating(kWh/100 miles) | 26 kWh/100mi (Model 3 RWD) | — |
| Energy Efficiency(miles/kWh) | 3.8 mi/kWh | — |
| 5-Year Cost-to-Own(USD) | $66,731(winner) | $75,450 |
| Interior Redesign (2026) | Minimalist design | Complete refresh with premium touches |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd)(Cd) | 0.219(winner) | 0.260 |
| Interior Material Quality | Tech-Forward, Minimalist | — |
| Interior Material Quality | Hard plastic, minimalist design, no leather standard | — |
| Starting Price Level | Budget-Friendly | — |
| Standard Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive | — |
| Battery Capacity (Standard)(kWh) | 60 kWh (usable) | — |
| Home Charging Time (240V)(hours) | 12.1 | 10.0(winner) |
| DC Fast Charge (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 min | — |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%)(minutes) | 25 minutes | 10 minutes(winner) |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 minutes | — |
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 24.1 | 33.1(winner) |
| Total Seating(passengers) | 5 | — |
| Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 28.3 cu ft(winner) | 28.0 cu ft |
| Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 28 cubic feet | 76 cubic feet(winner) |
| Maximum Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 passengers | 7 passengers (with 3rd row)(winner) |
| Total Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 76 cubic feet | — |
| Starting Price (Base Model)(USD) | $38,990(winner) | $43,990 |
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $38,990(winner) | $43,990 |
| Starting Price(USD) | $38,990(winner) | $52,990 |
| Starting Price(USD) | $52,990 | — |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 2,248 lbs | 3,500 lbs(winner) |
| Towing Capacity(pounds) | 2,248 lbs | 3,500 lbs(winner) |
| Ground Clearance(inches) | 5.5 inches | 8.6 inches(winner) |
| EPA Range (Base)(miles) | 358 miles | — |
| EPA Maximum Range(miles) | 358 miles (RWD) | — |
| EPA Range (Most Efficient)(miles) | 330 miles | — |
| Supercharger/Fast Charging Network(locations) | 50,000+ | — |
| Fast Charging Network Size(locations globally) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — |
| Charging Network Size(stations) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — |
| Public Charging Network Access(locations) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — |
| Supercharger Network Access(stations (global)) | 50,000+ exclusive stations | — |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 35.4 inches | 41.4 inches(winner) |
| Battery Warranty(years/miles) | 4 yr/50k mi | 8 years/120,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty Coverage(years / miles) | 8 years / 120,000 miles | — |
| Basic Warranty Coverage(months/miles) | 5 years / 60,000 miles | — |
| Battery Warranty(years/miles) | 8 years/120,000 miles | — |
| Battery Warranty (Years)(years) | 8 years | — |
| EPA Estimated Range(miles) | 358 miles(winner) | 330 miles |
| EPA Range (RWD)(miles) | 358 miles | — |
| EPA Range (Base Model)(miles) | 272 miles | — |
| EPA Range (RWD Base)(miles) | 330 miles | — |
| EPA Range (Long Range)(miles) | 330 miles | — |
| Battery Capacity (Standard)(kWh) | 60 kWh | — |
| Curb Weight (Standard)(pounds) | 3,552 lbs | — |
| Weight (Long Range)(lbs) | 4,245 lbs | — |
| Curb Weight (Long Range)(lbs) | 3,582 lbs | — |
| Curb Weight (RWD)(pounds) | 4,416 lbs | — |
| Battery Options(kWh) | 75 kWh (Standard), 82 kWh (Long-Range) | — |
| Battery Warranty Coverage(years/miles) | 8 years/120,000 miles | 8 years / 120,000 miles |
| Battery Options (Base/Premium) | RWD 55 kWh / Performance 75D kWh | — |
| Infotainment Touchscreen Size(inches) | 15.4 inches (portrait) | — |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 15-inch vertical | — |
| Infotainment Display(inches) | 15.4 inches | 17-inch touchscreen(winner) |
| Infotainment Screen(inches) | 15 inches | — |
| Infotainment Interface Type | 15-inch portrait touchscreen, no physical controls | — |
| Public Charging Locations Available(count) | 50,000+ Superchargers | — |
| DC Fast Charging Speed (10-80%)(minutes) | 27 minutes (Supercharger) | — |
| Interior Material Quality Rating(qualitative assessment) | Premium vegan leather, aluminum accents, minimalist design | — |
| Total Interior Space(cubic feet) | 96.9 cu ft (rear legroom 37.2 in) | — |
| Battery Capacity (Long Range)(kWh) | 75 kWh | — |
| Warranty (Battery/Powertrain)(years) | 8 years / 100k miles | — |
| Battery Capacity(kWh) | Standard | — |
| Drive Type | RWD | — |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $43,990 | — |
| Vehicle Length(inches) | 187 in | — |
| Cargo Capacity(liters) | 28.3 cu ft | — |
| Curb Weight (Base)(kg) | 5,521 lbs | — |
Tesla Model 3Tesla Model YShow 2 more attributes
Show 17 more attributes
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
Tesla Model 3
Pros
- Starting price of $38,990—$5,000 cheaper than Model Y
- 132 MPGe efficiency rating—12 points higher than Model Y
- 4.2-second 0-60 time (Long Range)—0.6 seconds faster than Model Y
- 34.8-foot turning radius—easier to park and maneuver in cities
- 272-mile EPA range on standard battery—12 miles more than Model Y
Cons
- Only 28 cubic feet of cargo space—insufficient for large families or road trips
- Maximum 5-seat capacity—no third-row seating option available
Tesla Model Y
Pros
- 76 cubic feet of cargo space—173% more than Model 3 for families and cargo
- Optional third-row seating accommodates up to 7 passengers
- Higher ground clearance (6.6 inches) provides better visibility and all-weather capability
- Superior towing capacity of 3,500 lbs vs Model 3's 2,248 lbs
- Larger interior with more legroom (41.4 inches rear vs 35.4 inches in Model 3)
Cons
- Starting at $43,990—$5,000 more expensive than Model 3
- 120 MPGe efficiency—slightly less efficient due to larger size and weight
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
The Model 3 is $5,000 cheaper with a starting price of $38,990 and offers superior efficiency (132 MPGe vs 120 MPGe) and better acceleration (4.2 vs 4.8 seconds to 60 mph). Its smaller turning radius of 34.8 feet also makes it easier to navigate urban environments. Choose the Model 3 if you commute alone or with one passenger.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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