Which Tesla Model Is Best : Which One Should You Choose?

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Which Tesla Model is Best : Choosing the best Tesla model can feel overwhelming, with each one offering something special. Whether you want a compact sedan, a spacious SUV, or super-fast acceleration, Tesla has you covered. They offer a variety of battery options, advanced safety, and the latest technology for all kinds of drivers.

When looking at Tesla models, think about price, range, size, and how fast it goes. The Model 3 is the cheapest, starting at 39.990€, and the Model X is the priciest at 99.990€¹. The Model S has the longest range, and the Model Y has the shortest¹. The Model S has the most luxurious inside, the Model 3 is the smallest, the Model X is the biggest sports model, and the Model Y has a big trunk for its size¹.

Tesla is always innovating, with upcoming models like the Cybertruck, Roadster, and Semi set to change electric cars even more. They also offer the Powerwall and Solar Roof for homes, leading the way to a greener future.

Key Takeaways

Tesla has many models for different needs and tastes, including sedans and SUVs
The Model 3 is more affordable, and the Model Y has more room
The Model S Plaid is the fastest, and the Model X is the biggest and most versatile
Future Tesla models like the Cybertruck, Roadster, and Semi will push electric car tech further
Tesla’s Powerwall and Solar Roof help make homes more sustainable, matching their electric cars

Introduction to Tesla’s Electric Vehicle Lineup

Tesla is a young car company that has made electric cars popular. The Model S launched in 2012 and quickly became a hit, making Tesla a top seller in the UK². Now, Tesla offers a simple lineup with saloons and SUVs for most drivers.

The tesla ev range varies by model. The Model 3 can go up to 374 miles on a single charge². The 2024 Model 3 can go from 272 to 341 miles³. The Model S has over 250 miles of range², and the 2024 version can go from 359 to 402 miles³. The Long Range Model S can drive 405 miles, and the Plaid version 396 miles⁴.

The 2024 Tesla Model 3 starts at $40,630³. Prices range from $39,990 for the Standard Range to $56,990 for the Performance⁴. The 2024 Model S starts at $74,630³. Prices go from $82,990 for the Long Range to $122,990 for the Plaid⁴.

The Model Y is like the Model 3 but has a hatchback and more space, with up to 283 miles of range². The 2024 Model Y starts at $44,630 and can go from 260 to 320 miles³. The Long Range Model Y goes 326 miles, and the Performance 303 miles⁴.

The Model X is Tesla’s top model, known for its ‘falcon wing’ doors and space, but it’s less efficient than the Model 3². The 2024 Model X starts at $79,630 and goes from 326 to 335 miles³. It’s Tesla’s biggest car, offering over 2,300 litres of storage space with all seats up².

Tesla’s cars get updates through the air, keeping even the oldest models current with new tech². This keeps Tesla at the forefront of electric vehicles.

Tesla Model 3: The Affordable and Efficient Option

The Tesla Model 3 is a top pick for electric vehicles, blending affordability, performance, and efficiency well. It starts at $38,990, making it easy for more people to buy⁵. After a federal EV tax credit, the price goes down to about $32,700, making it even more attractive⁶.

Model 3 Performance Specs and Range

The Model 3 offers great performance without a high price tag. The Rear-Wheel Drive version has a 272-mile range and an impressive 132 MPGe rating, making it the most efficient Tesla⁵. For more power, the All-Wheel Drive option gives you a 341-mile range⁵. The Performance AWD trim is the fastest, reaching 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 163 mph⁵.

Interior Features and Technology

The Model 3’s interior is modern and sleek, focusing on both looks and tech. It comes with synthetic leather seats, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a big panoramic glass roof⁵. The car’s main feature is its large, touch-sensitive screen, which controls almost everything in the car.

Pricing and Value Retention

The Model 3 holds its value well, unlike many cars that lose value quickly. Its quality, performance, and popularity keep its value steady or even increase it over time⁵.

Model 3 Trim	Price	Range	0-60 mph	Top Speed
Rear-Wheel Drive	$38,990	272 miles	5.8 seconds	140 mph
All-Wheel Drive	$47,740	341 miles	4.2 seconds	145 mph
Performance AWD	$52,990	315 miles	2.9 seconds	163 mph

The Tesla Model 3 is a great choice for those looking for an electric vehicle. It has a good range, strong performance, and nice features inside⁷. As Tesla keeps improving the Model 3, it’s clear it will stay a favorite among EV buyers for a long time⁶.

Tesla Model Y: The Practical and Spacious Crossover

The Tesla Model Y is a favorite among EV fans and families. It’s an electric crossover that’s both spacious and versatile. It uses the same platform as the Tesla Model 3 but offers more room inside.

Comparing Model Y to Model 3

The Tesla Model Y costs more than the Model 3, starting at £55,000. This is about £5,000 more than the Model 3’s base price⁸. Yet, the Model Y is worth it for its bigger interior and hatchback-style trunk.

The 2024 Tesla Model Y starts at $44,630 and can go up to $54,130⁹. It’s pricier than the Model 3 but offers more space and a practical design for families or those needing more room.

The Model Y Performance has a range of 298 miles, and the Long Range model claims 315 miles⁸. The Model Y Long Range and Performance models offer 310 and 285 miles of range, respectively. The rear-wheel drive Standard Range Model Y can go up to 260 miles⁹.

Cargo Space and Seating Configurations

The Tesla Model Y stands out for its large cargo space and flexible seating. It has a bigger trunk than the Model 3, with 854 liters of space⁸. You can choose between five or seven seats, depending on the edition¹⁰. This makes it perfect for families or those who often carry large items.

Model	Cargo Space	Seating Capacity
Tesla Model Y	68 cubic feet	5-7 passengers
Tesla Model 3	15 cubic feet	5 passengers

In summary, the Tesla Model Y combines the Model 3’s value with the practicality of a spacious interior and hatchback-style trunk. It may have a shorter range than the Model 3, but its cargo space and seating options make it a great choice for those who value practicality and versatility in an electric vehicle.

Tesla Model S: The Flagship Luxury Sedan

The Tesla Model S has been a key part of Tesla’s lineup since 2012. It has seen many design updates, making it a top choice for electric luxury sedans. The 2023 Tesla Model S starts at $76,630 for the Long Range, $80,130 for the Standard Range, and $110,130 for the Plaid model¹¹.

Evolution of the Model S Design

Since its launch, the Tesla Model S has had several design refreshes. These updates in 2016 and 2021 have made the car look even better. It has a practical hatchback boot, giving you more space than many other cars. The 2023 Model S has a big 26-cubic-foot trunk and a secondary display for the gauge cluster and a small touchpad in the rear seat¹¹.

Battery Options and Range

The Tesla Model S comes with different battery options for various needs and budgets. The Model S Long Range can go up to 405 miles on a single charge¹²¹¹. The base Model S battery gives you up to 320 miles of range¹¹. The Model S Long Range can drive up to 405 miles, more than the Model X’s 348 miles¹³. The Standard Range Model estimates up to 320 miles, and the Lucid Air can go as far as 517 miles¹¹.

The Model S is very efficient, with the highest MPGe ratings among its models. The Long Range version gets 124 city and 115 highway MPGe¹²¹¹. In real-world tests, the Model S Plaid reached 280 miles of its claimed 390 miles¹²¹¹. The Model S Performance has combined city/highway EPA fuel economy ratings of 97/98/96 MPGe¹².

The Tesla Model S is known for its fast acceleration. The Model S Long Range goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, and the Plaid trim does it in just 1.99 seconds¹³. The Plaid version, with a third electric motor, reaches 60 mph in an amazing 2.1 seconds¹²¹¹. The Tesla Model S Plaid has a combined power of 1020 hp, torque of 1050 lb-ft, and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds¹².

Tesla Model X: The Versatile and Powerful SUV

The Tesla Model X is an electric SUV that stands out with its space, speed, and special features. It’s like the Model S sedan but better for families. You can get it in two versions: the standard Model X for $77,990 or the high-performance Model X Plaid for $92,990¹⁴.

Unique Falcon Wing Doors

The Model X has falcon wing doors that open in a cool way. They use sensors and special hinges to open wide in tight spots¹⁵. These doors make getting in and out easy, adding a cool touch to the car.

Seating Capacity and Configurations

The Model X can seat five, six, or seven people¹⁴. The six-seat setup has two captain’s chairs in the back for more comfort. You can also fold the seats to make more room for stuff.

Size Comparison with Other SUVs

The Model X is big and heavy, making it the biggest in Tesla’s lineup¹⁶. It’s taller and wider than some other cars, giving it a big feel inside and out.

Model	Horsepower	0-60 mph	Range	Top Speed
Model X	670 hp	3.8 seconds	335 miles	155 mph
Model X Plaid	1,020 hp	2.5 seconds	326 miles	163 mph

The Model X is fast, with the basic model going from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds¹⁴¹⁵. The Plaid version is even faster, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. It’s also efficient, with up to 335 miles on a charge¹⁴.

Inside, the Model X is roomy and high-tech. It has a big 17-inch screen and a top-notch audio system¹⁴. It’s also very safe, with features like automatic brakes and a top safety rating¹⁴.

The Tesla Model X is a statement vehicle that combines practicality, performance, and innovation in a truly unique package.

The Tesla Model X is great for those who want efficiency, speed, or both. The standard model is all about range and efficiency, while the Plaid version is all about speed¹⁴. It has lots of room, versatile seating, and the latest tech, making it perfect for families or anyone needing a big electric SUV.

Which Tesla Model is Best for Families?

When looking for the best Tesla for families, the Model Y and Model X are top choices. The Model Y is great for families because it’s practical and has lots of space.

The Model Y has ISOFix points in the two outer rear seats for easy child seat connection¹⁷. It also has three top tether anchorages for the back seats, making child seats safe and secure¹⁷. Even a tall driver can fit in front of a child seat¹⁷.

The Model Y has a big boot that can hold up to fifteen shopping bags, beating out the BMW iX3 and Jaguar i-Pace¹⁷. It’s also flexible, fitting different prams and bags¹⁷. There’s extra storage under the floor and in the front, for more space¹⁷.

For big families, the Model Y’s second row fits three car seats or boosters¹⁸. The third row is best for kids around 10-11 years old because it’s a bit cramped¹⁸. For trips with 6-7 people, consider a roof rack or hitch for extra space¹⁸.

The Model Y can go about 500km on a full charge, great for daily use and road trips¹⁷. It has a five-star safety rating and comes with seven airbags, keeping everyone safe¹⁷.

The Model X also fits up to 7 people with optional rear-facing seats¹⁹. It has as much cargo space as big SUVs, so there’s room for everything¹⁹.

Both the Model Y and Model X look new even after a year of harsh winters¹⁹. They come with music streaming services to keep kids happy on long drives¹⁹.

Choosing the best Tesla for your family depends on what you need and like. But, the Model Y and Model X are great with their space, safety, and family features.

Comparing the Fastest Tesla Models

Tesla leads the pack in speed and acceleration with its electric vehicles. The Model S Plaid, Model 3 Performance, and Model Y Performance stand out. They deliver fast acceleration and high top speeds.

Model S Plaid: The Quickest Acceleration

The Tesla Model S Plaid is a speed and performance powerhouse. It has 1,020 horsepower, making it super fast. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds²⁰.

In real tests, it hit 0-60 mph in 2.07 seconds, showing its speed²⁰. It also did a quarter-mile in 9.55 seconds at 150.2 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars²⁰.

The Model S Plaid tops out at 163 mph²⁰. But it’s all about its quick acceleration, beating even exotic supercars in the 0-60 mph race²¹.

Performance Versions of Model 3 and Model Y

The Model S Plaid leads in performance, but the Model 3 Performance and Model Y Performance are close seconds. The Model 3 Performance hits 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 162 mph²². The Model Y Performance, a bit bigger and heavier, still gets to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and tops out at 155 mph²².

The Model 3 Performance has 430 horsepower, and the Model Y Performance has 418 horsepower²². They may not match the Model S Plaid’s power, but they still offer a thrilling drive. They can beat most gasoline sports cars.

Model	0-60 mph	Top Speed	Horsepower
Model S Plaid	1.99 seconds	163 mph	1,020 hp
Model 3 Performance	3.1 seconds	162 mph	430 hp
Model Y Performance	3.5 seconds	155 mph	418 hp

The Model S Plaid is the fastest, but the Model 3 Performance and Model Y Performance are more affordable. The Model 3 Performance starts at $54,630, and the Model Y Performance at $55,880²²²⁰. They offer a high-performance option for more buyers than the Model S Plaid’s $91,630 starting price²²²⁰.

Budget-Friendly Tesla Options

For those looking for affordable Tesla models, the Model 3 is the top choice. Prices range from $40,240 to $59,740 for the base model²³. The Tesla Model 3 starts at $38,990 for the Rear-Wheel Drive trim with zero upgrades. It goes up to $64,990 for the AWD Performance variant with all upgrades²⁴. The base Model 3 RWD starts at $40,630, including fees²⁵.

The entry-level Model 3 offers an EPA-rated range of 272 miles. It can add up to 175 miles within 15 minutes of charging²⁵. The Long Range Model 3 has an EPA-rated range of 341 miles and can go from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds²⁵. The Model 3 Performance can accelerate 0-60 in 2.9 seconds, offers a range of 303 miles, and qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit²⁵.

Most Tesla models are eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit, making them more budget-friendly²³. The cheapest way to charge a Tesla is with solar panels, potentially saving $1,000 per year compared to a gas-powered vehicle²³. On average, it costs between $10 and $18 to charge a Tesla from zero using utility power. This translates to approximately 4 to 5 cents per mile, significantly cheaper than gas-powered vehicles, which typically cost around 20 cents per mile to drive²³.

The Tesla Model Y offers a RWD version starting at $44,990, with the highest Long Range AWD model reaching $62,990 fully loaded²⁴. The Long-range Model Y RWD offers a range of 295-320 miles with a charging speed of 170kW²⁵.

While the upfront cost of a Tesla may seem high, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance can make it a cost-effective choice for many buyers.

Extra costs when purchasing a Tesla include a $250 non-refundable order fee, $1,390 destination and documentation fee, taxes and fees ranging from $4,500 to $5,000, and the need to purchase charging equipment like the $230 Mobile Connector or the $425 Wall Connector²³.

For those willing to consider a used Tesla, there’s no shortage of pre-owned Model S vehicles available. They offer more car, performance, and range for your money compared to a new Model 3 or Model Y. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect any used Tesla and ensure that the battery and other components are in good condition before making a purchase.

Choosing the Right Tesla Model Based on Size and Space

When picking the right Tesla model, think about size and cargo space. The Model X and Model Y have lots of room for passengers and stuff. But, they are different in size and what they can carry.

The Model X is the biggest Tesla, with more cargo space than many others. It has 92.3 cubic feet of space for stuff when all seven seats are up. This is more than the Model Y’s 76.2 cubic feet²⁶. It’s great for families or those who need lots of storage.

The Model Y is smaller but still has plenty of room. It has a big 854-litre boot, bigger than the Jaguar I-Pace and BMW iX3²⁷. It also has a 117-litre spot under the hood for things like charging cables²⁷.

The Model X is bigger than the Model Y in length, width, and height²⁶. This might affect if it fits in your garage. The Model Y is similar in width to the Model S but 9 inches shorter²⁸.

Model	Length	Width	Height
Model X	198.3 in	81.6 in	66.3 in
Model Y	187.0 in	75.6 in	63.9 in
Model 3	184.8 in	72.8 in	56.8 in

Think about how comfortable it is for passengers too. The Model X has more room for passengers than the Model Y. It has more headroom, shoulder room, and legroom in the front and back seats²⁶. The Model Y’s front row is just a bit less legroom than the Model S, and the second row has 40.5 inches of legroom²⁸. But, the Model Y’s third row is best for kids²⁶.

Choosing between the Model X and Model Y depends on what you need. If you want the most space and comfort, go for the Model X. But, if you like a smaller car that’s still big enough for family trips and daily driving, the Model Y is a great pick²⁸.

Tesla’s Autopilot and Safety Features Across Models

Tesla’s Autopilot is a set of advanced features that come with all new Tesla cars. It makes driving safer and more convenient²⁹. The system uses cameras and sensors to understand the car’s place in a lane. It moves from just following lines to seeing the whole space around it³⁰. It can tell apart obstacles, cars, and people to avoid crashes³⁰.

The basic Autopilot package includes Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer²⁹. TACC helps control distance from other cars and can steer, brake, and speed up or slow down on its own³⁰. Autosteer lets the car steer, speed up or slow down, and brake by itself, with the driver watching³⁰. It works between 18 mph and 85 mph, with headlights on or set to Auto²⁹.

Enhanced Autopilot adds more features like Auto Lane Change, Navigate on Autopilot, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon²⁹. Auto Lane Change now does more than just change lanes; it can pass other cars on highways³⁰. Navigate on Autopilot lets the car follow a path, change lanes, and drive on highways with little driver help³⁰²⁹.

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) package includes Traffic Light & Stop Sign Control, Autosteer on City Streets, and more²⁹. FSD lets the car react to stop signs and traffic lights in city driving³⁰. You can buy FSD for $12,000 or subscribe for $199 a month³⁰³¹.

Autopilot Feature	Basic Autopilot	Enhanced Autopilot	Full Self-Driving
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control	✓	✓	✓
Autosteer	✓	✓	✓
Auto Lane Change		✓	✓
Navigate on Autopilot		✓	✓
Autopark		✓	✓
Summon		✓	✓
Smart Summon		✓	✓
Traffic Light & Stop Sign Control			✓
Autosteer on City Streets			✓

Tesla has made its Autopilot better since 2014, with updates from HW0 to the latest MCU3³⁰. They now use Tesla Vision instead of radar in cars for North America³¹. Even with Autopilot and Full Self-Driving, drivers still need to watch the road. This tech makes driving safer and easier in all Tesla models³¹.

Future Tesla Models: Cybertruck, Roadster, and Semi

Tesla is working on several new vehicles that will change the game. The Tesla Cybertruck, an electric pickup truck with a unique look, has already caught a lot of attention. Over a million people have shown interest in it³². The first ones to hit the road will be the top-spec four-motor versions³².

The second-generation Tesla Roadster is also on the horizon. It was first set for 2020 but is now expected in 2025³³. The release date has been pushed to late 2024³².

The Tesla Semi is an electric semi-truck for long-distance hauling. It can go about 425 miles on a single charge³². By February, only 36 units were made, with 35 going to PepsiCo³².

Tesla plans to show off three new models, including a van, Roadster, and a robotaxi³³.

Tesla is also looking into electric vans, where they’ll face stiff competition from Ford, Ram, Mercedes-Benz, and General Motors³³. They’re working on a robotaxi too, which will use Autopilot and Full Self-Driving tech. This robotaxi is set to be shown on August 8³³.

Model	Key Features	Expected Release
Cybertruck	Angular design, four-motor variants	2023
Roadster (2nd Gen)	High-performance sports car	2025
Semi	Electric semi-truck, 425-mile range	In trials

Tesla is set to keep pushing the boundaries with its new models. With the Cybertruck, Roadster, Semi, and maybe a robotaxi and electric van, Tesla is ready to stay ahead in the EV market.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Tesla model means thinking about what you need and like. The Model 3 is a great choice for those looking for affordability and efficiency. It starts at 39.990€ and goes up to 629 kilometers on a single charge¹. The Model Y is perfect for those needing space and practicality, starting at 44.990€ and offering up to 600 kilometers of range¹. It was the top-selling car in Europe with 250,000 registrations in 2023³⁴.

The Model S is for those who want luxury, starting at 92.990€ and reaching up to 723 kilometers¹. It boasts a 394-mile range in the dual-motor version and around 373 miles in the tri-motor version³⁴. The Model X is ideal for those needing both power and space, starting at 99.990€ and offering up to 625 kilometers of range¹. It also has a massive 337-mile range with various powertrain options³⁴.

When picking a Tesla, think about the range, performance, interior, and price. Real-world tests, like a long-term review of the Model Y Long Range, show its efficiency and range in tough conditions³⁵. With Tesla’s ongoing updates, you’re sure to get a top-notch, tech-rich electric car, no matter which model you choose.

FAQ

Which Tesla model is the most affordable?

The Tesla Model 3 is the most budget-friendly car in Tesla’s range. It offers great performance and a good range at a lower price. This makes it a great choice for those looking for value.

What are the main differences between the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y?

The Model Y is similar to the Model 3 but is taller and wider. It has a hatchback boot for more practicality and space inside. However, it has a slightly less range than the Model 3.

Which Tesla model is best for families?

The Model S and Model Y are great for families. The Model S has a big hatchback boot and a good electric range. The Model Y is practical with its hatchback-style boot and more space inside than the Model 3.

What is the fastest Tesla model?

The Model S Plaid is the fastest Tesla, available in left-hand-drive markets. It has 1,020hp and can go from 0-60mph in 1.99 seconds. The Model 3 and Model Y Performance are also quick, reaching 0-60mph in 3.1 and 3.5 seconds, respectively.

Which Tesla model has the most cargo space?

The Tesla Model X is the largest model, offering more space than a Volkswagen ID.3 in the boot, even with all seven seats up. With just the front two seats, it has over 2,300 litres of cargo space.

Do all Tesla models have access to the same features and updates?

Yes, all Tesla models get free updates over the air. This means new features will come to all models. Every Tesla has the basic Autopilot package, which includes automatic steering, acceleration, and braking within its lane, plus advanced safety features.

What future Tesla models are in development?

Tesla is working on several new models. These include the Cybertruck, a pickup truck, the new Roadster, a high-performance sports car, and the Tesla Semi, an electric semi-truck for hauling cargo over long distances.

How do I choose the best Tesla model for my needs?

When picking a Tesla model, think about what you need. Consider affordability (Model 3), practicality and space (Model Y), luxury and range (Model S), or versatility and power (Model X). Your specific needs, preferences, and budget will help you choose the right Tesla for your lifestyle.