2023 Tesla Model 3 Vs. Model Y In-Depth Comparison

The most critical factors of an EV purchase are typically the battery specifications. As you compare the Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y, you'll find that both EVs are leaders in the industry. Specs are competitive across the board, but they'll vary with the trim level you have in mind.

With a Tesla Model 3, you'll find a battery capacity that ranges from 50 kWh to 82 kWh. A Tesla Model Y battery capacity ranges up to 81 kWh in each trim.

So what range can you expect each model to deliver? Let's start with the Model 3.

The first trim is the Standard trim (the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive and Model Y All-Wheel Drive). The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive offers an EPA-estimated range of 267 to 272 miles,^{2, 3} while the Model Y All-Wheel Drive delivers an EPA-estimated 279 miles of range.²

Choose the Model 3 Long Range to get an EPA-estimated range of 334 to 358 miles^{2, 3}, or jump to the warp-speed Model 3 Performance to achieve an EPA-estimated range of 315 miles².

The Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y range comparison is one thing, but we recommend looking at competing EVs to discover how impressive these figures can be. Speaking of which, let's see how far the Model Y SUV’s higher trim levels can go.

With the aptly named Model Y Long Range, you'll find an EPA-estimated range of 314 to 330 miles^{2, 4}. Embrace electrifying thrills with the Model Y performance to get an EPA-estimated range of 303 miles².

The discrepancy in the range is a straightforward matter. The Model 3 is a more agile sedan while the Model Y is a larger SUV; thus, the Model Y needs more juice to get going.

On the topic of "juice," let's look at how Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y charging times will vary.

240V charging times come in at an 11-hour to 11.9-hour estimate for Long Range trims on each vehicle, while the Model Y Performance has a 10.1-hour estimate, and the Model 3 Performance has a 10.5-hour estimate.

But, when you drive a Tesla, you'll want to make full use of Supercharger stations.

There are over 40,000 Superchargers in use around the world. When you use a Supercharger with your Model 3, you'll be able to recharge an estimated range of up to 175 miles in 15 minutes⁵. With a Model Y, a Supercharger can recharge an estimated range of up to 162 miles in 15 minutes⁵.

Whether you want to wake up to a fully charged battery or make a quick range-replenishing pit-stop on your road trip, Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y charging times are both designed to accommodate your driving needs. Range anxiety dissapears from your life when you choose a new Tesla EV.

A look around both models' interiors will reveal a similar layout. When you compare Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y interiors, you'll find that they focus on a pure aesthetic. We mean each interior is a sharply designed space where everything has a purpose. The low-slung dashboard swoops around you with premium trim like genuine wood, and without a gauge cluster in your way, you get an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

The gauge cluster isn't necessary here. Each model offers an innovative, market-leading 15-inch touch-screen display that can show you your driving data, control vehicle functions, and even be used as an entertainment center with functions like a built-in web browser. There are clever Easter eggs, video games, and many more features to discover in this jaw-dropping infotainment display.

Over-the-air updates mean that in the Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y comparison, both vehicles will get improvements like enhanced user interfaces and even more powerful Autopilot functionality (more on this feature in the section below) as time passes.

Both models cater to comfort, convenience, and cutting-edge capabilities. A truly immense glass roof stretches out to cover nearly the entire cabin ceiling, with advanced UV protection to help keep the interior cool and passengers safe. A wireless smartphone charger with room for two phones will keep you connected in both models on your daily drive.

Overall, the Tesla Model 3 interior and Tesla Model Y interior share much in common, with only slight differences distinguishing the Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y interiors. Among them, the Model Y has fold-flat rear seats, a power liftgate, and more headroom than the Model 3.

The most noticeable difference between Model 3 and Model Y EVs is their size and layout. The Model 3 is a sedan; the Model Y is an SUV. Both can carry five occupants.

On the outside, the Model Y is noticeably larger. The Tesla Model 3 measures 184.8 inches long, 72.8 inches wide, and 56.8 inches tall. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y measures 187 inches long, 75.6 inches wide, and 64 inches tall.

Front-seat passengers in a Model 3 will get 40.3 inches of headroom and 42.7 inches of legroom; Model Y front occupants will get 41 inches of headroom and 41.8 inches of legroom. Both are competitive measurements in their class. Model 3 passengers will find 37.7 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom in the rear seats, while Model Y rear passengers are provided with 39.4 inches of headroom and 40.5 inches of legroom.

While Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y EVs are two-row vehicles, the Model Y has an optional third row with two seats to bring the seating capacity to seven occupants

The Model Y is (naturally) a bit heavier than the Model 3 but does offer an extra 1.3 inches of ground clearance for outdoor adventures.

With the Model 3 trunk space offering 22.9 cubic feet of volume, you'll find next-level spaciousness for the sedan class. The Model Y is a similar standout for a compact SUV. The Model Y cargo capacity is 34.3 cubic feet with all the seats in place and up to 76.2 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded.

When comparing the dimensions of a 2023 Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y, you'll notice that both models offer a unique mix of spacious accommodations and agility within their respective classes.