Compared: 2022 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y

The classic sedan vs. SUV matchup: Want more space? You're going to pay extra.

Roberto Baldwin | 

Sep 13, 2023 | 3 min read

Tesla | Model Y (top), Model 3

When it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), Tesla's EVs continue to offer more range than comparable electric cars from other automakers, and they handily outsell the competition. Leading the sales charge are the Model Y compact SUV and the Model 3 compact sedan. These two Teslas share a platform and styling cues, but there are substantial differences in price, interior space, and range depending on which model you choose.

Tesla | Model Y

2022 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y: Price

The cheapest Tesla Model 3 starts at around $48,000 with 241 horsepower and rear-wheel drive. The more powerful, all-wheel-drive Model 3 Long Range variant with a bigger battery costs nearly $56,000, and the Model 3 Performance starts at almost $62,000 with an estimated 470 horsepower.

There isn't a Model Y that compares to the single-motor base Model 3, so the small Tesla SUV starts significantly higher at almost $65,000 for the all-wheel-drive Long Range model with 384 horsepower. The Performance trim begins at about $68,000.

Every version of these two vehicles is available with Tesla's Full Self-Driving capability. Despite the name, drivers need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road while using this system that combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist with advanced features like the ability to automatically initiate lane changes.

Several versions of the Model Y and Model S are eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs. Buyers must qualify as well as vehicles, so check with a tax professional to determine whether you qualify.

As you're debating when to pull the trigger, you also should keep in mind that Tesla tends to change the costs of its vehicles far more often and with larger adjustments than other automakers. The company does typically announce price hikes at least a week in advance to encourage fence-sitters to make a purchase.

Tesla | Model Y

2022 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y: Features

The taller and longer Model Y offers more rear-seat head- and legroom. Its total passenger volume of 107 cubic feet compares to 97 cu-ft in the Model 3. The Model Y's 30 cu-ft of cargo space behind the second row also tops the Model 3's 23-cu-ft trunk. An optional third row in the Model Y Long Range increases seating capacity from five to seven, but with the seats up it cuts luggage volume to 13 cu-ft.

From a design and features standpoint, the vehicles are essentially identical, with an austere minimalism that's either cool or bland depending on how you view it. Neither vehicle has an instrument cluster or physical buttons for climate or media controls. Instead, a single 15.0-inch touchscreen handles everything. It displays your speed, controls the windshield wipers, and manages your music. Both the Model 3 and Y come with vegan faux leather, a fixed glass roof, and wireless phone charging.

Tesla | Model 3

2022 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2022 Tesla Model Y: Range

The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are some of the most efficient EVs currently available, according to the EPA. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 achieves a combined 132 MPGe and a range of up to 272 miles. Upgrading to the all-wheel-drive Model 3 Long Range increases the range to 358 miles, while the Performance model trades endurance for quickness. It's rated for 315 miles of range on a full charge.

The Model Y Long Range, with its larger size and additional weight, doesn't quite match the Model 3 but it's close. It clocks 122 MPGe with a range of 330 miles. The Performance trim covers 303 miles before depleting the battery, per the EPA.

Roberto Baldwin

Roberto Baldwin is an automotive and technology reporter based in Northern California. In addition to traditional car coverage, he has focused on the emergence of electric vehicles and driver assistance features in vehicles and the eventual launch of autonomous vehicles. Over the past seven years he’s sat in more autonomous test vehicles than he can remember but still reminds the average driver to keep their eyes on the road. He currently owns a Subaru BRZ, Hyundai Kona Electric, and a Vespa GTS 250.