Compare performance (313 HP vs 460 HP), boot space and price (42,300 £ vs 31,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW iX1 or Tesla Model 3?
The electric vehicle market is rapidly expanding, with numerous options available for eco-conscious consumers. Among the latest contenders are the BMW iX1 and the Tesla Model 3, both offering innovative features and impressive performance. In this comparison, we'll delve into the technical specifications, design, and unique offerings of both vehicles to help you make an informed decision.
The BMW iX1 presents itself as a modern electric SUV, designed with practicality and style. Measuring 4500 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1616 mm in height, it provides ample interior space with a trunk capacity of 490 liters. Its stylish exterior is complemented by a robust and spacious interior suitable for families.
On the other hand, the Tesla Model 3 adopts a more streamlined hatchback design. Slightly longer at 4720 mm, it features a Width of 1850 mm and a Height of 1441 mm. With a larger trunk capacity of 594 liters, it offers additional cargo space, enhancing its practicality for everyday use.
In terms of power, the BMW iX1 offers two variants: front-wheel drive with 204 HP and all-wheel drive with 313 HP. These variations provide consumers with options depending on their performance needs. The iX1 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds for the base model and 5.6 seconds for the higher variant. It boasts an electric range of up to 463 km with an energy consumption of 15.8 kWh/100km, making it a feasible choice for long-distance drives.
Conversely, the Tesla Model 3, available in multiple configurations, ranges from 283 HP to 460 HP. The acceleration is impressively swift, with the top model achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. With a maximum electric range of 702 km and an energy consumption as low as 12.5 kWh/100km, the Model 3 pushes the boundaries of efficiency and performance.
The BMW iX1 employs advanced driving assistance technologies and offers an engaging driving experience typical of BMW vehicles. Its all-wheel-drive option adds versatility for various driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability.
In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 is celebrated for its cutting-edge autopilot capabilities. The vehicle not only focuses on autonomous driving features but also integrates a minimalist, tech-forward cabin equipped with a large touchscreen interface that controls nearly all functions, making it a unique experience in the automotive landscape.
Both vehicles come equipped with spacious interiors that prioritize comfort and contemporary aesthetics. The iX1 features high-quality materials and a driver-focused dashboard that retains BMW's classic appeal while integrating modern technology. Passengers enjoy generous legroom and multiple connectivity options.
Meanwhile, the Tesla Model 3 is renowned for its spaciousness and futuristic design. The absence of many physical buttons is offset by a highly responsive touchscreen that governs everything from climate control to navigation, providing a clean and uncluttered cabin ambiance. The rear seating provides generous space, enhancing comfort for longer journeys.
When considering the BMW iX1 and the Tesla Model 3, both vehicles present impressive attributes in the electric car sector. The BMW iX1 is a solid choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile SUV with traditional driving dynamics, whereas the Tesla Model 3 excels in technological innovations and performance efficiency. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for style, space, power, and the desire for high-tech features.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Tesla Model 3 is noticeably cheaper – starting at 31,700 £ , while the BMW iX1 costs 42,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 10,637 £.
In terms of energy consumption, the Tesla Model 3 is a bit more efficient: consuming 13 kWh/100km compared to 14.3 kWh/100km for the BMW iX1. That’s a difference of about 1.3 kWh/100km.
As for electric range, the Tesla Model 3 offers clearly more range – reaching up to 750 km, about 236 km more than the BMW iX1.
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 3 offers clearly more power – delivering 460 HP compared to 313 HP. That’s roughly 147 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model 3 is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 3.1 s, while the BMW iX1 takes 5.6 s. That’s about 2.5 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the Tesla Model 3 delivers markedly more torque with 660 Nm compared to 494 Nm. That’s about 166 Nm more.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Tesla Model 3 is marginally lighter – 1,772 kg compared to 1,940 kg. The difference is around 168 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Tesla Model 3 offers somewhat more boot space – 594 L compared to 490 L. That’s a difference of about 104 L.
When it comes to payload, the BMW iX1 carries clearly more – 495 kg compared to 377 kg. That’s a difference of about 118 kg.
The Tesla Model 3 stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The BMW iX1 wraps BMW's electric ambition into a compact SUV package that feels unexpectedly premium, with sharp handling and a crisp, modern cabin that keeps the driver in charge. It's ideal for buyers who want a stylish, quiet daily driver with useful practicality and tech-savvy touches — plus enough character to make the commute feel less like a chore and more like a short joyride.
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The Tesla Model 3 slices through daily commuting with a silent, confident shove that makes petrolheads reassess their life choices, while its minimalist cabin feels more like a slick gadget gallery than a traditional car interior. For buyers after a fuss-free, tech-forward electric with plenty of grin factor and low running drama, it’s hard to beat—just don't be surprised when the car updates itself overnight.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
42,300 - 55,200 £
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Price
31,700 - 50,100 £
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Consumption L/100km
-
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Consumption L/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
14.3 - 15.7 kWh/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
13 - 16.7 kWh/100km
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Electric Range
466 - 514 km
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Electric Range
534 - 750 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
83 kWh
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co2
0 g/km
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co2
0 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
Sedan
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
4
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Curb weight
1,940 - 2,085 kg
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Curb weight
1,772 - 1,929 kg
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Trunk capacity
490 L
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Trunk capacity
594 L
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Length
-
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Length
4,724 mm
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Width
1,845 mm
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Width
1,850 mm
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Height
-
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Height
1,431 mm
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
495 kg
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Payload
303 - 377 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Electric
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Engine Type
Electric
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
204 - 313 HP
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Power HP
283 - 460 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.6 - 8.6 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.1 - 6.2 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
262 km/h
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Torque
250 - 494 Nm
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Torque
420 - 660 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
-
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Number of Cylinders
-
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Power kW
150 - 230 kW
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Power kW
208 - 338 kW
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Engine capacity
-
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Engine capacity
-
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General |
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Model Year
2,026
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Model Year
2,025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Tesla
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España