BMW i4 vs Tesla Model Y
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW i4 | Tesla Model Y | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 340 | 299 | +13.7% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 430 | 420 | +2.4% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 16.1 | 12.0 | +34.2% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $77,544 | $59,508 | +30.3% |
- BMW i4 makes about 14% more power (340 vs 299 hp).
- Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 16.1.
Verdict: i4 or Model Y?
BMW i4 advantages
- Engine power (+12%)
Tesla Model Y advantages
- Energy efficiency (+25%)
- Affordability (+23%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
Value for money
Tesla Model Y delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW i4 vs Tesla Model Y: which should you choose?
BMW i4 (2026 i4 eDrive40 M Sport) — electric sedan with 340 hp and 430 Nm, rated at 16.1 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $77,544 in the EU market.
Tesla Model Y (2026 RWD (Juniper)) — electric suv with 299 hp and 420 Nm, rated at 12 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $59,508 in the EU market.
BMW i4 vs Tesla Model Y: BMW i4 is more powerful. BMW i4 makes about 14% more power (340 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 16.1.
Performance
The BMW i4 is the more powerful, at 340 hp against 299 hp, with 430 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
The Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, drawing 12.0 kWh/100km against 16.1 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
BMW i4 is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and Tesla Model Y 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Tesla Model Y lists lower at about $59,508 (USD-converted from the EU market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW i4 better than the Tesla Model Y?
Tesla Model Y takes the overall edge, though BMW i4 wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW i4 makes about 14% more power (340 vs 299 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW i4 and the Tesla Model Y?
BMW i4 makes about 14% more power (340 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 16.1.
Which is better value?
Tesla Model Y delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.