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@ Tesla, Inc.
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BMW i5 vs Tesla Model Y – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW i5 or Tesla Model Y?

i5 @ BMW Group Press

BMW i5 vs Tesla Model Y: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles, two names stand tall: the BMW i5 and the Tesla Model Y. Each bringing unique offerings to the table, potential buyers often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of these cutting-edge machines. This article delves into a detailed comparison of these two electric vehicles, covering technical aspects, innovations, and what they mean for the modern driver.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Design and Body Type

The BMW i5 is a sleek sedan that embodies classic BMW styling with a modern electric twist. Measuring 5060 mm long, 1900 mm wide, and standing at 1515 mm high, it presents an elegant profile that appeals to those seeking luxury in their driving experience. In contrast, the Tesla Model Y is an SUV designed for practicality and space. With a length of 4751 mm, a width of 1921 mm, and a height of 1624 mm, the Model Y boasts a more robust stance that provides additional cargo capacity.

i5 @ BMW Group Press

Performance Metrics

When it comes to performance, the BMW i5 offers multiple variants, with power outputs ranging from 340 HP to a staggering 601 HP. The i5 can achieve 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.8 seconds, making it a thrilling choice for speed enthusiasts. The Tesla Model Y, on the other hand, ranges from 299 HP to 534 HP, with a remarkable acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds in its performance version. Both vehicles come with automatic transmission and reduction gearbox, ensuring smooth gear shifts and a modern driving experience.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Range and Battery Capacity

Electric range is a crucial factor for many buyers, and both vehicles deliver impressively. The BMW i5, with a battery capacity of 81.2 kWh, boasts ranges between 511 km to 582 km. Conversely, the Tesla Model Y, depending on the variant, offers an electric range from 455 km to 600 km with battery capacity options of 62 kWh and 79 kWh. While both vehicles provide ample range for daily commutes and longer trips, the choice may depend on specific driving needs and preferences.

i5 @ BMW Group Press

Charging and Efficiency

Efficiency is another critical differentiator. The BMW i5 consumes between 15.9 to 18.4 kWh/100km, while the Tesla Model Y showcases a slightly more impressive efficiency of 14.9 to 17.3 kWh/100km. Both vehicles are 0g/km for CO2 emissions, aligning with the current push toward more sustainable driving options.

Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior of the BMW i5 emphasizes luxury and driver-centric technology, offering plush seating for up to five passengers and a trunk capacity of 490 liters. The cabin is adorned with premium materials and the latest infotainment systems, ensuring a comfortable experience on the road.

On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y offers practical seating for five, with an option for seven, catering to families or those needing extra space. The trunk capacity is impressive at 854 liters, ideal for carrying larger loads. Tesla's minimalist design approach is evident, focusing on a sleek dashboard dominated by a central touchscreen that controls nearly every function of the vehicle.

Driving Experience and Innovations

Both vehicles provide distinct driving experiences. The BMW i5 offers a more traditional automotive feel, blending the brand's legacy of craftsmanship with electric capabilities. It inherits BMW's well-regarded handling characteristics, ensuring a dynamic driving experience that enthusiasts will appreciate.

The Tesla Model Y, however, introduces cutting-edge features such as Autopilot, making it a frontrunner in the realm of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The seamless integration of technology makes driving feel more like a futuristic experience, with regular over-the-air updates continuing to enhance the vehicle's capabilities.

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the BMW i5 and Tesla Model Y will come down to personal preferences in styling, driving experience, and practicality. The i5 caters to those looking for luxury and performance in a sedan, while the Model Y captures the hearts of those seeking utility and innovative technology in an SUV format. Both vehicles showcase the potential of electric driving, setting high standards for the industry. As the automotive landscape continues to innovate, both BMW and Tesla will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in shaping the future of electric mobility.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Tesla Model Y has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 38600 £, while the BMW i5 costs 60200 £. That’s a price difference of around 21609 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Tesla Model Y: with 13.90 kWh per 100 km, it’s hardly perceptible more efficient than the BMW i5 with 14.70 kWh. That’s a difference of about 0.80 kWh.

As for range, the BMW i5 performs minimal better – achieving up to 627 km, about 5 km more than the Tesla Model Y.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Tesla Model Y has a hardly perceptible edge – offering 627 HP compared to 601 HP. That’s roughly 26 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model Y is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the BMW i5 takes 3.80 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Tesla Model Y performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 250 km/h, while the BMW i5 tops out at 230 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: BMW i5 pulls noticeable stronger with 820 Nm compared to 493 Nm. That’s about 327 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Tesla Model Y is to a small extent lighter – 1976 kg compared to 2195 kg. The difference is around 219 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Tesla Model Y offers significantly more room – 822 L compared to 490 L. That’s a difference of about 332 L.

When it comes to payload, BMW i5 to a small extent takes the win – 545 kg compared to 472 kg. That’s a difference of about 73 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Tesla Model Y shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £38,600
Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Tesla Model Y

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 299 - 627 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 13.9 - 16.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 500 - 622 km
details

BMW i5

The sleek new i5 captivates drivers with its striking design and innovative features that blend luxury and efficiency. Inside, the spacious cabin boasts cutting-edge technology, ensuring a connected and comfortable ride for all passengers. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the i5 delivers a dynamic driving experience that is sure to impress.

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P90506443_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv @ BMW Group Press
P90506448_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv @ BMW Group Press
P90505515_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-m60-x @ BMW Group Press

Tesla Model Y

4.3 (3)
rate

The Tesla Model Y blends SUV practicality with sports-car poke, wrapping a roomy, minimalist cabin and handy hatch into a slick, aerodynamic package that feels more Silicon Valley gadget than garage ornament. It’s an ideal pick for buyers who want effortless electric driving, regular software improvements and access to Tesla’s convenient charging network, though style-conscious shoppers should know it’s more about tech and efficiency than classic luxury.

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0x0-ModelY_07 @ Tesla, Inc.
0x0-ModelY_01 @ Tesla, Inc.
0x0-ModelY_17 @ Tesla, Inc.
0x0-ModelY_19 @ Tesla, Inc.

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Model Y @ Tesla, Inc.

Costs and Consumption
Price
60200 - 85300 £
Price
38600 - 53100 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.7 - 17.1 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
13.9 - 16.2 kWh
Electric Range
540 - 627 km
Electric Range
500 - 622 km
Battery Capacity
81.20 kWh
Battery Capacity
64.5 - 85 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
4
Doors
5
Curb weight
2195 - 2370 kg
Curb weight
1976 - 2108 kg
Trunk capacity
490 L
Trunk capacity
822 L
Length
5060 mm
Length
4790 - 4796 mm
Width
1900 mm
Width
1921 mm
Height
1505 - 1515 mm
Height
1611 - 1624 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
2022 L
Payload
525 - 545 kg
Payload
418 - 472 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
340 - 601 HP
Power HP
299 - 627 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 5.9 s
Max Speed
193 - 230 km/h
Max Speed
201 - 250 km/h
Torque
430 - 820 Nm
Torque
420 - 493 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
250 - 442 kW
Power kW
220 - 461 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2023 - 2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BMW
Brand
Tesla

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What drive types are available for the BMW i5?

The BMW i5 is offered with Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.