Best Tesla Model: Which Tesla is best?

best-tesla-model

Tesla has transformed the electric car industry with its innovative designs and standout models. Since the release of the Model S, a four-door saloon, in 2012, the company has brought EVs into the mainstream and forced traditional automakers to keep up. Tesla models have made a major impact, with features like long driving ranges, advanced semi-autonomous driving, and a strong network of Superchargers.

The 2019 UK launch of the Model 3 took things even further and offered a fully electric alternative to the popular BMW 3 Series. Along with the Model Y SUV, Tesla has become one of the top-selling car brands in Britain.

In the UK, you have four Tesla cars to choose from — Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X — and we’ll compare them here. This guide will help you choose the model that’s right for you and show why Tesla is a top name in electric vehicles.

Tesla Model 3

best-tesla-model

Used model price

From £23,499

Body type

Saloon

Doors

4

Seats

5

Distance on one charge

278-374 miles

Drive type

Rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive

Segment

Premium and luxury

Boot space

594 litres

The Model 3 is the most recognizable recognisable Tesla you’ll see. It’s the cheapest model in the lineup, but it still offers over 300 miles of range per charge and fast acceleration. As for the interior, it has advanced technology and enough space for a family, plus a decent-sized boot.

Like all the other Tesla cars, the Model 3 doesn’t have trim levels. But you can choose from:

  • Standard Range Plus
  • Long Range
  • Performance

The Standard Range Plus comes with a rear-wheel drive and a single motor. In contrast, the Long Range and Performance versions feature all-wheel drive, each equipped with a motor on both the front and rear axles. The Standard Range Plus gives you 278 miles of range, more than most other EVs, and the Long Range version can go up to 374 miles, which is among the best for electric cars.

Tesla Model Y

best-tesla-model

Used model price

From £33,699

Body type

SUV

Doors

5

Seats

5

Distance on one charge

320 miles

Drive type

Rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive

Segment

Premium and luxury

Boot space

854 litres

The Tesla Model Y shares many parts with the Model 3 but is taller and a bit wider. It features a large boot in the hatchback style that lifts with the rear windscreen and makes it easier to load larger items. Inside, both models are similar, but the Model Y offers extra legroom and headroom due to its bigger size.

Like the Tesla Model 3, the Model Y comes with either a single-motor or dual-motor option. However, because the Model Y is heavier and less aerodynamic, its range and acceleration aren’t quite as good as those of the Model 3.

You’ll likely charge the Model Y at home overnight, but if you’re on a long trip, you can use a Tesla Supercharger to quickly boost the battery. In good conditions, you can get an 80% charge in under 30 minutes. With Tesla’s Premium subscription, you can also enjoy streaming, games, and karaoke while you charge.

Tesla Model S

best-tesla-model

Used model price

From £23,998

Body type

Saloon

Doors

4

Seats

5

Distance on one charge

402 miles

Drive type

Rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive

Segment

Premium and luxury

Boot space

709 litres

The Tesla Model S is Tesla’s oldest model, and it’s similar in size to luxury sedans like the Mercedes E-Class. Although it’s been around for a while, it remains a top pick for those who want a high-end, tech-rich electric car that delivers a lot of power and practicality.

The Model S offers the longest range of any Tesla and comes with powerful options, including dual-motor and tri-motor setups. While the older version was recently replaced by a new generation model in some markets, even the original Tesla Model S from the 2012 production offered over 250 miles of range. The boot is spacious, too.

If you want a nearly new, premium electric car with great range, the Tesla Model S is a solid choice. Even though its design is over a decade old, the car still feels modern thanks to updates in style, technology, and performance.

Tesla Model X

best-tesla-model

Used model price

From £34,490

Body type

SUV

Doors

5

Seats

5-7

Distance on one charge

335 miles

Drive type

Four-wheel drive

Segment

Premium and luxury

Boot space

425 litres

The Model X is Tesla’s biggest and priciest SUV, built on the same platform as the Model S. It features distinctive falcon wing doors that open upwards, which helps when parking in tight spaces. Another unusual feature of the Model X is its various seating options, including a rare six-seat setup.

While the Tesla Model X is cheaper to run than traditional cars because it’s electric, it’s not as efficient as Tesla’s smaller models. That is explained by its size and weight. It comes with dual or tri-motor options for great range and speed despite its large size.

The Model X is the most expensive Tesla model, costing over £100,000 new, but used ones can be a good deal.

Verdict

After looking at all of Tesla's electric cars, it's clear that each one is made for different needs. You can choose from small cars, family cars, and fancy big cars.

If you want to get a Tesla without spending too much, the Model 3 is a good choice. It's the cheapest but still goes far on one charge and has lots of cool tech. For families who need more room, the Model Y might be better. It's bigger but won't cost you an arm and a leg.

The Model S has been around the longest, but it's still great if you want a posh electric car that can go really far without needing a charge. If you've got more money to spend and like cars that stand out, the Model X with its special doors that open upwards could be fun.

All Teslas have some things in common: they can drive far on one charge, you can use Tesla's special quick-charging stations, and they're packed with smart features. This is why more and more people in the UK are buying them.

Before you decide, it's a good idea to test drive a few different Teslas. Each one drives a bit differently, so you want to make sure you pick the one that feels right for you.

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FAQ

Which model of Tesla is better?

The best Tesla model for you depends on the size class you want — with the Model X being the biggest and the Model 3 being the smallest.But more broadly, the Tesla Model Y is the best-selling Tesla in the UK and the world’s top-selling vehicle. It’s also the first electric vehicle to lead the sales charts. At the very least, this tells us that Model Y appeals to a wide audience.

What sets the Tesla Model X apart?

The Tesla Model X is special because of its falcon wing doors, which open upwards instead of sideways and make it easier to get in and out in tight spots. It’s also one of the biggest electric SUVs, higher than an Audi Q8 e-tron and broader than a Range Rover, so you get plenty of space inside.

Is the Model 3 the top choice in Tesla’s lineup?

The Model 3 could be the best pick among Tesla cars for many because it’s both efficient and affordable. It has a great range and performance, thanks to its advanced battery and motor technology.

What Tesla model is the quickest?

The fastest Tesla is the Model S Plaid, which can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds. Before this, the Model S Performance was the quickest, with a 0-60 mph time of 2.4 seconds. The larger Model X Performance is also a fun ride, taking 2.9 seconds to reach 60 mph.

Which Tesla model is the largest?

The largest Tesla is the Model X. With just the front seats, it offers over 2,300 litres of space. If you don’t need such a large vehicle, the smaller Model Y might be a better choice.

Which Tesla is the cheapest?

If you want the least expensive model, go for the Model 3. It’s not cheap but is the most affordable option, and it still delivers strong performance and good range. You could also consider a used Model S. It might be older, but it gives you more space and range for your money.

Which Tesla is the most luxurious?

Inside the Model X, you’ll find a rear touchscreen, advanced climate control, and a high-quality air filter to keep the cabin fresh. It also offers plenty of cargo space. With the extra luxury of added features and spaciousness comes a higher price tag, but some find the investment worth it.

What is the best Tesla for commuters?

The Standard Range Plus of the Model 3 works well for most people, and the Long Range version is perfect if you have long commutes or want to avoid worrying about running out of battery.

What is the best Tesla for families?

The best Tesla models for families are the Model X and Model Y. The Model X is roomy and offers seven optional seats, but the Model Y is the more budget-friendly option. It still provides plenty of space, has a sunroof for kids to enjoy, and was rated top in Euro NCAP’s 2022 safety tests.