Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y
By CarWhere Research · Updated
The Model 3 is a mid-size sedan, and the Model Y is a compact SUV built on the same platform with seating for up to seven. For 2026, the longest-range Model 3 (Premium RWD, 363 mi) edges out the longest-range Model Y (Long Range RWD, 357 mi), and the Model 3 uses less energy per mile.
Side by side
| Model year | Model | Variant (fueleconomy.gov) | EPA range (mi) | MPGe combined | kWh/100 mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Model 3 | Model 3 Standard RWD | 321 | 139 | 24 |
| 2026 | Model 3 | Model 3 Premium RWD | 363 | 137 | 25 |
| 2026 | Model 3 | Model 3 Premium AWD | 346 | 128 | 26 |
| 2026 | Model 3 | Model 3 Performance AWD | 314 | 111 | 30 |
| 2026 | Model 3 | Model 3 Performance | 309 | 114 | 30 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Standard RWD (18in Wheels) | 321 | 138 | 24 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Standard RWD (19in Wheels) | 303 | 131 | 26 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Standard AWD | 294 | 127 | 26 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Long Range RWD | 357 | 134 | 25 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Long Range AWD | 327 | 123 | 27 |
| 2026 | Model Y | Model Y Performance AWD | 306 | 105 | 32 |
Key differences
- Longest range: the 2026 Model 3 Premium RWD at 363 mi vs the Model Y Long Range RWD at 357 mi (EPA).
- The Model 3 is the more efficient car in most matched trims; the Model Y adds SUV practicality and optional extra seating.
- Entry prices at the October 2025 launch were $36,990 (Model 3 Standard) and $39,990 (Model Y Standard).
- Both use the NACS/J3400 port and share most software recalls.
Body style and seating
Tesla describes the Model 3 as a four-door mid-size sedan and the Model Y as a compact SUV built on the Model 3 platform with seating for up to seven adults. The longer Model Y L, with six seats in three rows, reached the US in July 2026.
Tesla's cargo-volume figures are published on tesla.com, which we could not open, so this comparison does not list them.[3][4]
Range and efficiency
Like for like, the sedan is more efficient. The 2026 Model 3 Premium RWD uses 24.6 kWh/100 mi against 25.2 for the Model Y Long Range RWD, and the Model 3 Standard RWD uses 24.3 against 24.3–25.7 for the Model Y Standard RWD, depending on wheels. Both Performance models trail their lineups on range: 314 mi for the Model 3 and 306 mi for the Model Y.[1][2]
Starting price
When the Standard versions launched in October 2025, Tesla listed the Model 3 Standard at $36,990 and the Model Y Standard at $39,990, a $3,000 gap. Both are sold direct at set prices, with no dealer negotiation on new cars. Current prices for other trims are on tesla.com, which we could not open.[5][3]
Frequently asked questions
Which has more range, Model 3 or Model Y?
For 2026, the best Model 3 (Premium RWD, 363 mi) is rated 6 miles more than the best Model Y (Long Range RWD, 357 mi).
Is the Model Y bigger than the Model 3?
Yes. The Model Y is a compact SUV built on the Model 3 platform with seating for up to seven, while the Model 3 is a mid-size sedan.
How much more does a Model Y cost than a Model 3?
At the October 2025 launch of the Standard versions, the Model Y Standard started $3,000 higher ($39,990 vs $36,990).
Which is more efficient?
The Model 3 generally uses less energy per mile; for example, 24.6 kWh/100 mi for the 2026 Premium RWD vs 25.2 for the Model Y Long Range RWD.
Do they charge the same way?
Yes. Both use Tesla's NACS connector, standardized as SAE J3400, and both can use Superchargers.
Sources
Figures come from the sources below, each opened when this page was built. EPA range and efficiency are from fueleconomy.gov; recalls are from the NHTSA recall dataset published on data.transportation.gov. A dash means no source we could open gave that figure.
- 2026 Tesla Model 3 fuel economy and range (all variants) — U.S. DOE / EPA fueleconomy.gov
- 2026 Tesla Model Y fuel economy and range (all variants) — U.S. DOE / EPA fueleconomy.gov
- Tesla Form 10-K for fiscal 2025 — U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (EDGAR)
- Tesla Q2 2026 Update (Form 8-K Exhibit 99.1) — U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (EDGAR)
- Tesla Q3 2025 Update (Form 8-K Exhibit 99.1) — U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (EDGAR)
- Tesla Form 10-K for fiscal 2023 — U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (EDGAR)
- SAE J3400 Charging Connector — Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (driveelectric.gov)
- NHTSA recall 23V838000: Autopilot Controls Insufficient to Prevent Misuse — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- NHTSA recall 24V935000: TPMS Light May Not Remain Illuminated/FMVSS 138 — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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Independent reference compiled by CarWhere Research — not affiliated with or endorsed by Tesla, Inc.. Tesla and the model names are trademarks of their owners.