They are not direct rivals as they belong to different segments, but now they are similarly priced, so let’s see which one is more interesting.
A few dates ago, Tesla announced a price drop in Spain for its two most popular models, the Model 3 and Model Y. This makes both models now more affordable and compete with more price rivals. Today we want to compare the Volkswagen ID.3 and the Tesla Model 3 and see which one is more interesting, after Tesla’s price drop.
In principle, it is not about two direct rivals, since the Volkswagen ID.3 is a compact that would fit in the C segment, where we also find the Nissan Leaf and the Kia e-Niro, while the Tesla Model 3 is a sedan that we would include it in segment D, along with models like the BMW i4 or the Kia EV6.
However, after the price drop applied by the Elon Musk brand, the Model 3 is almost in the same price range as the German electric car. Now, the Tesla starts at 46,200 euros and the ID.3 at 45,010 euros, although these prices can be reduced with the aid of the MOVES III Plan, up to 7,000 euros.
Volkswagen ID.3, that’s right
The Volkswagen ID.3 is the smallest electric car sold by the German brand and the cheapest. Currently, the range starts with the Entry finish and the 150 kW (204 hp) engine, powered by a 62 kWh gross capacity battery (58 kWh net), which provides a range of 426 kilometers, according to the WLTP cycle.
The Entry trim includes, among other items, 18-inch black wheels with a gloss-turned surface, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, Discover Pro navigation system, and central locking with access and keyless start
There are some similarities with the Tesla Model 3. For example, to start the car, simply press the brake pedal, select D and accelerate, while to turn it off, simply select P and open the door.
Another similarity is found in the technological equipment. The ID.3 operating system is updated via the internet or at brand dealers. With these updates, new functions and applications are added that affect elements such as the battery or driving aids.
The interior of the electric Volkswagen is very minimalist (also in this it imitates Tesla), with a modern design, but without straying from the usual line in most current electric vehicles: two digital screens, almost total absence of physical buttons and many controls tactile.
The cabin conveys the feeling of spaciousness, especially if the panoramic glass roof is equipped. There’s enough space for five passengers and the trunk claims a capacity of 385 litres, roughly the same as the Volkswagen Golf.
One drawback that can be made to the ID.3 is the quality of some interior finishes. There are plastics that are out of place in a 45,000-euro car, such as those that cover the upper part of the door panels, the steering wheel controls or the console between the seats in glossy black plastic (you can also choose white).
Tesla Model 3, with more autonomy
As for the Tesla Model 3, this is a clearly larger car: it measures 4.69 meters in length, compared to 4.26 meters for the Volkswagen ID.3. This translates into greater habitability and trunk: 425 liters in the main trunk and 117 in the front. In total, 542 liters.
There is space for four adults to travel in complete comfort, although a fifth will not be as comfortable. The interior of the Model 3 draws attention to the extremely minimalist design, without controls on the dashboard, and with absolute prominence for the 15-inch monitor in the center.
From the touch screen, all the functions of the vehicle are controlled, from the browser and the multimedia system to the speed or the witnesses that report the status of the car. The information is displayed clear and orderly and the handling is intuitive.
The standard equipment includes items such as leather seats, two-zone climate control, keyless entry and start system, by card or mobile, panoramic glass roof, 18-inch wheels and Full LED headlights.
The Tesla Model 3 can be criticized the same as its German rival, in terms of the quality of the finishes. They are not as careful as it would be for a saloon of this price level.
Going on to comment on the propulsion system, the basic version of the Tesla Model 3 mounts a 283 CV motor that pushes the rear wheels, connected to a 60 kWh useful capacity battery, which allows it to certify a range of 491 kilometers under the cycle WLTP. As we can see, in this aspect it far exceeds the ID.3.
Dynamically, the Model 3 stands out for its great acceleration capacity and good stability, thanks to the firmness of the suspensions, although this makes it not as comfortable as other sedans on the market of its level.
Conclution
Having analyzed both models, which one is more interesting, the Volkswagen ID.3 or the Tesla Model 3? Taking Tesla’s price drop into account, there is currently a difference of almost 1,200 euros (1,190, to be exact).
The Tesla Model 3 is a larger car and therefore more suitable for those who plan to travel and cover long distances. In addition, it has a more powerful engine and, most importantly, a longer range. So it is worth paying that difference which, on the other hand, is not so pronounced.
On the other hand, for those who are going to use the car preferably in the city, the ID.3 is a better option, since it is more compact and, therefore, easier to park and comfortable to drive in urban traffic.