Versus Engine
BMW i3 (Neue Klasse) vs Tesla Model 3 Highland
Specs, price and the one trade-off that actually decides it — BMW i3 (Neue Klasse) against Tesla Model 3 Highland, side by side.
Cheaper to start
Tie
Both start at a similar price.
Rated higher
Tesla Model 3 Highland
8.9 vs 0.0 on our design scale.
Standout
BMW i3 (Neue Klasse)
800V Neue Klasse platform
BMW i3 (Neue Klasse)
BMW''s first Neue Klasse sedan — a mid-size electric saloon on the same 800V platform as the new iX3, with the i3 name revived for it. Not related to the 2013–2022 i3 city car.
Where it wins, where it doesn't
Pros
- New dedicated 800V platform with 400 kW charging
- BMW-quoted WLTP range near 900 km on the efficiency variant
- Shares engineering with the well-regarded new iX3
Cons
- Shares a name with the unrelated 2013 i3, which will confuse searches
- North American deliveries not until 2027
- All range and driving figures are manufacturer claims so far
Specifications
- key_features800V Neue Klasse platform, sixth-generation cylindrical cells, ~108.7 kWh battery on the top variant, BMW quotes up to ~900 km WLTP for the range-focused model, 400 kW DC charging, dual-motor i3 50 xDrive ~469 hp. Production at Munich from August 2026; European deliveries from autumn 2026, North America in 2027.
- Battery cells46 millimetres diameter and 95 millimetres height cylindrical cells with 20 percent increase in volumetric energy density
- Battery designCell-to-pack design enabling high energy density at pack level
- Battery housingPack-to-open body concept functioning as a structural component
- Central Display17.9-inch with a resolution of 3,340 x 1,440 pixels
- Electric motorsTwo highly efficient electric motors with EESM and ASM technology providing a system output of 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque
- Electronics in four zonesFour-zone electrical architecture with Smart eFuses
- Energy MasterPositioned on top of the high-voltage battery, provides electricity to the electric motors and vehicle electrical system
- Projected rangeUp to 440 miles
- Steering WheelNew multifunction steering wheel with Shy Tech operating elements
- Superbrain high-performance computersFour superbrain high-performance computers with up to 20 times higher computing power compared to previous BMW models
Tesla Model 3 Highland
The refreshed Model 3 at $38,990 — better ride, same software advantage, more controversial controls.
Where it wins, where it doesn't
Pros
- Class-leading efficiency and range
- Excellent software and Supercharger network
- Refined ride quality over previous generation
Cons
- Controversial lack of turn signal stalks
- Minimalist interior isn't for everyone
- Full Self-Driving remains an expensive beta
Specifications
- key_featuresUp to 341 miles range, RWD/AWD variants, HW4 autopilot hardware, minimalist interior with rear screen
- Battery cells—
- Battery design—
- Battery housing—
- Central Display—
- Electric motors—
- Electronics in four zones—
- Energy Master—
- Projected range—
- Steering Wheel—
- Superbrain high-performance computers—