Which Tesla model should you choose?

Finding the best Tesla model for your needs

Tesla has dominated the electric vehicle (EV) world thanks to their industry-leading range capabilities and advanced technology – enough autopilot wizardry to make you feel like you're living in a sci-fi movie.

However, Tesla can be a daunting one for those looking at their first electric car lease.

Tesla offers a small but mighty lineup that includes the Model S, Model 3, Model X and Model Y.

All four have devilishly good looks - and the fact that the model names are an anagram for the word ‘S3XY’ tells you exactly what the American manufacturer thinks of their designs.

However, Tesla decided that the Model S and Model X would no longer be produced in the UK (unfair, we know).

So, in this blog, we’ll only be talking about the Model 3 and Y.

What makes Tesla unique?

Instead of rolling out brand-new models every year like traditional carmakers, they continuously update and improve their existing cars.

If you’re struggling to keep up with the latest tweaks, don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Tesla have only ever produced EVs.

They’ve even forced other manufacturers to up their game – as they should.

And more EV manufacturers have started to appear on the scene. Think BYD, XPENG, and NIO.

Tesla were unrivalled, but in recent years we’ve seen the likes of the BYD SEAL, the Hyundai IONIQ 5, and the Polestar 4 come to the fore in what is now a very competitive market.

To help you in your hunt for the best Tesla lease deals, we’ve taken a deep dive into each model and picked out some key features that could help you on your search.

Tesla Model 3

A compact saloon screams sporty yet practical. But let’s see what Tesla has done.

Exterior

At first glance, the Tesla Model 3 has Tesla’s signature sleek and futuristic vibe.

This compact saloon keeps it classy with a fuss-free design, smooth lines, and a low-slung stance. With the facelift the Model 3 underwent in 2024, it’s a car that keeps turning heads – and we can see why.

The aerodynamic profile isn’t just for looks either. Tesla have refined every curve and contour to maximise efficiency, which directly contributes to those impressive range figures.

The flush door handles pop out when you approach with your key, adding to that seamless, minimalist aesthetic.

Model 3 drivers also benefit from the lowered suspension that allows for improved traction and better handling, and keeping the car planted.

Interior

Inside the cabin, Tesla maintains its minimalist approach. It's clean, spacious, and all about functionality.

The large 15.4-inch touchscreen display takes centre stage, handling everything from navigation to climate control (and some hidden Easter eggs if you know where to look).

The cabin feels surprisingly roomy for a compact saloon, with generous legroom for all passengers. Premium materials give it an upmarket feel, while the panoramic glass roof creates an airy, open atmosphere.

Storage is impressive too, with 594 litres of rear boot space – surpassing rivals like the Hyundai IONIQ 6 with only 401 litres. 

Add the 88-litre 'frunk', door pockets, and centre console, and the Model 3 is practical for everyday life and longer trips.

Tech

The Model 3 has a long list of safety features, including Autopilot, which Tesla claims is twice as good as your average human driver. 

Ouch.

Under your active supervision, this feature allows the Model 3 to steer, accelerate, and brake on its own for a more relaxed motorway driving experience – a great helping hand on the M25 during rush hour.

The touchscreen controls virtually everything, and over-the-air software updates mean your Model 3 continuously improves and gains new features.

Entertainment is covered with premium audio, streaming services, and even in-car gaming for when you're charging up.

Drive

Recently updated, there are now three variants of the Tesla Model 3 to choose from:

• Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
• Long Range RWD
• Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
• Performance AWD

The Performance AWD hits 0-60mph in just 2.9 seconds—blink and you'll miss it. The Long Range AWD manages 4.2 seconds, the Long Range RWD does 4.9 seconds, while the standard RWD comes in at a respectable 5.8 seconds.

Range varies by variant: up to 323 miles (WLTP Comb) in the standard RWD, 328 miles (WLTP Comb) in the Performance, 410 miles (WLTP Comb) in the Long Range AWD, and an impressive 466 miles (WLTP Comb) in the Long Range RWD—it's not called Long Range for nothing.

Behind the wheel, the Model 3 feels planted and responsive. The low centre of gravity means it corners with surprising agility, and the instant torque makes overtaking effortless.

What to consider

If you're searching for a Tesla but don't want a mammoth of a car, the Model 3 is a great option, it's the baby of the Tesla family.

Being the more affordable option, insurance usually works out cheaper too, but depending on trim level the Model 3 can fall into different insurance groups.

The Model 3 starts from around £39,990 for the Rear-Wheel Drive model and rises to at least £59,990 for the Performance All-Wheel Drive variant, with the Long Range AWD variant sitting in the middle, starting at £49,990.

Tesla Model Y

Let’s take a look at Tesla’s answer to a sleek electric SUV.

Exterior

If you think the Model 3 is a little too small for you, but you don’t want a gigantic car, the Model Y could be the one for you. It’s Tesla’s answer to a small SUV, designed to be functional while offering the same levels of performance as the Model 3.

The Tesla Model Y embodies a slightly bulkier silhouette with a higher ground clearance, establishing its authority on the road. Especially with the facelift it underwent in 2025.

Taking a lot of inspiration from the Model 3 and shares roughly 75% of the same components.

Both are undeniably very good-looking cars.

Interior

Inside you’ll find five seats and 854 litres of storage for all the gear. You can even fold the rear seats flat to give you a whopping 2,138 litres of space.

And let’s not forget the handy 117-litre ‘frunk’ – a perfect spot for charging cables or a lovely picnic.

There's plenty of head and leg room in both the rear and the front, and the glass panoramic roof floods in natural light, making it comfortable for longer journeys.

Tech

It didn’t get its 5-star NCAP Euro rating for no reason.

Fitted with lots of active safety features, such as Forward Collision Warning, Active Emergency Braking, Autopilot, and Lane Departure, you can have peace of mind knowing the Tesla Model Y can help reduce impact and stop accidents from happening altogether.

The Model Y features Tesla’s signature large 15.4-inch touchscreen that controls everything from navigation to climate control, with over-the-air updates keeping your car continuously on top form.

Drive

If you'd like to get behind the wheel of a Tesla Model Y, you have four trim levels to choose from:

• Rear-Wheel Drive
• Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive
• Long Range All-Wheel Drive
• Performance All-Wheel Drive

They still come with some pretty impressive claimed ranges of up to 391 miles (WLTP Comb), the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD does what it says, closely followed by the Long Range RWD with a range of up to 387 miles (WLTP Comb). You still get an impressive 360 miles (WLTP Comb) in the Performance edition and 311 miles (WLTP Comb) in the RWD.

And power? Well, this SUV still has that signature Tesla performance

Performance AWD hits 0-60mph in just 3.3 seconds. The Long Range AWD manages 4.6 seconds, the Long Range RWD does 5.4 seconds, while the standard RWD comes in at a respectable 5.6 seconds.

The Model Y delivers the instant torque and responsive handling you'd expect from Tesla, with the added practicality of SUV space and versatility.

What to consider

One of Tesla's many talents is keeping up to date, with the Model Y being an example of Tesla reacting well to the developing market of electric vehicles. Like the Model 3, it's designed to be a more affordable route into economical driving.

Be sure to check which insurance group your chosen trim level of the Model Y falls into, as premiums can vary.

Prices for the Tesla Model Y start from £44,990 for the entry-level trim and rise to £61,990 for the top-of-the-range Performance edition.

Let’s compare: Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y

Body style

• Model 3: Compact saloon
• Model Y: Small SUV

Variants

• Model 3: RWD, Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD, Performance AWD
• Model Y: RWD, Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD, Performance AWD

0-60mph (Performance AWD)

• Model 3: 2.9 seconds
• Model Y: 3.3 seconds

Range (WLTP Comb)

• Model 3: 323-466 miles
• Model Y: 311-391 miles

Boot space

• Model 3: 594 litres (rear) + 88-litre frunk
• Model Y: 854 litres (2,138 litres seats down) + 117-litre frunk

Seating

• Model 3: five seats
• Model Y: five seats

Infotainment screen

• Model 3: 15.4-inch
• Model Y: 15.4-inch

Starting price

• Model 3: £39,990
• Model Y: £44,990

Top price

• Model 3: £59,990
• Model Y: £61,990

So, which Tesla model is best for you?

Both the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y offer great electric driving experiences, but your choice comes down to what’s important to you and your needs.

If you want a sleek, sporty saloon with impressive range and performance, the Model 3 is your best bet. It's the more affordable option and perfect for drivers who prioritise efficiency without needing masses of space.

If practicality is key and you need more room for passengers and cargo, the Model Y is the clear winner. With significantly more boot space and a higher driving position, it's ideal for families or anyone who needs SUV versatility.

Both models share Tesla's cutting-edge tech, safety features, and that signature minimalist interior – so you really can't go wrong. Consider how you'll use the car day-to-day, and you'll find your perfect match.