In recent years, electric cars have taken the spotlight, and two models that frequently come up in discussions are the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4. Both of these vehicles have made significant waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering luxury, performance, and efficiency. But how do they stack up against each other?
Tesla Model 3 vs. BMW i4
If you’re trying to decide between these two, this comparison will break down the key areas to help you make an informed choice.
1. Design and Appearance
One of the first things that stand out between the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4 is their design.
- Tesla Model 3 has a minimalist, futuristic look. The clean lines, smooth curves, and simple front grille give it a sleek and modern appearance. Tesla’s design focuses on aerodynamic efficiency, with a low-slung body that helps it glide on the road.
- On the other hand, the BMW i4 retains the classic BMW look but with a modern twist. It has the iconic kidney grille (though mostly cosmetic in this case), and its design blends luxury with sportiness. The i4 appears more like a traditional car, which some people prefer over Tesla’s ultra-modern styling.
Both cars look fantastic, but the Tesla Model 3 leans more toward modern simplicity, while the BMW i4 combines traditional luxury with a sporty edge.
2. Interior and Technology
When it comes to the inside of the car, the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4 offer different experiences.
- Tesla Model 3: The interior is extremely minimalist. Nearly everything is controlled through a large central touchscreen. While some love the futuristic design and simplicity, others might miss physical buttons and dials for basic controls like adjusting the temperature or volume. Tesla also boasts its Autopilot system, which is constantly being updated and offers advanced driver-assistance features.
- BMW i4: The interior is more in line with what you’d expect from a luxury vehicle. There’s a blend of digital and physical controls, making it user-friendly for drivers who prefer a more conventional layout. The BMW i4 has a digital dashboard and infotainment system, with a curved display that wraps toward the driver. It also comes with advanced driver-assistance features, though Tesla’s Autopilot is still seen as more advanced by many.
3. Performance and Range
When it comes to electric cars, performance and driving range are critical aspects to consider.
- Tesla Model 3: Tesla is known for its impressive electric performance, and the Model 3 does not disappoint. The car is quick, with the Performance model going from 0 to 60 mph in just over 3 seconds. The long-range version offers a range of about 358 miles on a single charge, which is one of the best in its class.
- BMW i4: The BMW i4 is no slouch either. The i4 M50 version is particularly sporty, with 0-60 mph times under 4 seconds, making it almost as quick as the Tesla Model 3 Performance. However, the range of the i4 maxes out around 300 miles, which is slightly less than the Tesla Model 3. While the i4 offers great performance and driving dynamics, it may not match Tesla’s range in real-world driving conditions.
4. Charging Infrastructure
One area where Tesla really shines is its charging network. Tesla has built an extensive network of Superchargers around the world, making it easier for Tesla owners to find fast charging stations. The Tesla Supercharger network is proprietary, meaning it’s only available to Tesla cars, but it’s incredibly reliable and fast.
While the BMW i4 relies on third-party charging networks like Electrify America and others, it doesn’t have access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. While public charging networks are growing, they still don’t offer the same convenience and widespread availability as Tesla’s charging infrastructure.
5. Price
Price is a major factor for many buyers.
- The Tesla Model 3 typically starts at a lower price point than the BMW i4. Depending on the model and configuration, the Tesla Model 3 can be quite affordable compared to other luxury EVs, making it a popular choice for those looking to go electric without breaking the bank.
- The BMW i4 is positioned as a more premium offering, and its price reflects that. While you’re getting a BMW, which is known for luxury and driving performance, it does come with a higher price tag. This may be a consideration for buyers who want luxury but are trying to balance cost.
6. Driving Experience
Tesla and BMW have different philosophies when it comes to driving.
- Tesla Model 3 is known for its smooth acceleration and quiet ride. The car feels incredibly futuristic with its one-pedal driving feature (where lifting off the accelerator slows the car down without needing the brake). It’s fun to drive but lacks the same feel you might expect from traditional performance cars.
- BMW i4 stays true to BMW’s reputation for delivering an engaging driving experience. The i4 is built on BMW’s traditional strengths—sharp handling, responsive steering, and a more connected feel to the road. If driving pleasure is a priority for you, the i4 might feel more dynamic than the Tesla.
7. Ownership Costs and Maintenance
Electric vehicles tend to have lower maintenance costs than traditional gas cars, but there are still some differences between the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4.
- Tesla has the advantage of being an all-electric manufacturer from the start, so they’ve designed their cars to be as maintenance-free as possible. There are no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and fewer regular maintenance items compared to gas or hybrid cars.
- BMW also has low maintenance costs for its electric vehicles, but because it’s more aligned with its traditional car models, some buyers may perceive it as being more expensive to maintain. However, both brands offer warranties and service plans that make ownership costs predictable.
Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i4 comes down to personal preference and what matters most to you.
- If you value cutting-edge technology, minimalism, longer driving range, and access to a widespread charging network, the Tesla Model 3 might be the better option.
- However, if you prefer a more luxurious, sporty driving experience, and a more traditional car feel, the BMW i4 could be the right fit.
Both cars are excellent choices in the electric vehicle world, and it’s hard to go wrong with either. The key is deciding what factors matter most for your lifestyle and driving habits.
Frequently Ask Questions
Is Tesla Model 3 faster than BMW?
The Tesla Model 3 is generally faster than many BMW models, especially in its Performance version. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour quicker than most BMWs in its price range.
Is the i4 bigger than the Model 3?
Yes, the BMW i4 is larger than the Tesla Model 3. The i4 has more interior space and a larger overall footprint compared to the Model 3.
Is Tesla more luxury than BMW?
Tesla and BMW offer different kinds of luxury. Tesla focuses on cutting-edge technology and performance, while BMW combines traditional luxury with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Whether one is more luxurious than the other depends on what you value in a luxury car.
Can a BMW i4 use a Tesla charging station?
No, a BMW i4 cannot use a Tesla charging station directly because Tesla’s Superchargers use a different connector. BMW i4 uses standard charging connectors that are not compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Does BMW i4 have fast charging?
Yes, the BMW i4 supports fast charging. It can charge quickly at compatible fast-charging stations, allowing for a significant range boost in a short amount of time.
Does BMW use the same charger as Tesla?
No, BMW and Tesla use different charging connectors. Tesla uses its own proprietary connector for Supercharging, while BMW uses standard connectors like CCS (Combined Charging System) for fast charging.
How fast is a Tesla Supercharger?
A Tesla Supercharger can provide up to 250 kilowatts of power, allowing for a rapid charge that can add up to 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger type.
Which cars can use the Tesla Supercharger?
Currently, only Tesla vehicles can use Tesla Superchargers. However, Tesla is working on opening up their network to other electric vehicles in the future.
Can a BMW i3 use a Tesla Supercharger?
No, the BMW i3 cannot use a Tesla Supercharger because it uses a different connector type than Tesla’s. BMW i3 typically uses standard charging stations.
What is the maximum charging power for BMW i3?
The maximum charging power for the BMW i3 is around 50 kilowatts when using DC fast charging. This allows for quicker charging compared to standard home chargers.
Can I charge BMW i3 at home?
Yes, you can charge a BMW i3 at home using a standard wall outlet or a dedicated home charging station. Charging at home is convenient and typically sufficient for daily use.
Can I use a Tesla Supercharger if I don’t have a Tesla?
Currently, you cannot use a Tesla Supercharger if you don’t have a Tesla vehicle, as the network is limited to Tesla owners. Tesla is exploring ways to open the network to other electric vehicles in the future.