BMW i5 vs Tesla Model Y
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW i5 | Tesla Model Y | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 601 | 299 | +101.0% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 820 | 420 | +95.2% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 18.2 | 12.0 | +51.7% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $107,460 | $59,508 | +80.6% |
- BMW i5 makes about 101% more power (601 vs 299 hp).
- Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 18.2.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (Germany and EU); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: i5 or Model Y?
BMW i5 advantages
- Engine power (+50%)
- Pulling torque (+49%)
Tesla Model Y advantages
- Energy efficiency (+34%)
- Affordability (+45%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW i5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
- Choose the BMW i5 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
BMW i5 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW i5 vs Tesla Model Y: which should you choose?
BMW i5 (2024 M60 xDrive) — electric sedan with 601 hp and 820 Nm, rated at 18.2 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $107,460 in the Germany 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 i5 vs Tesla Model Y: BMW i5 is more powerful. BMW i5 makes about 101% more power (601 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 18.2.
Performance
The BMW i5 is the more powerful, at 601 hp against 299 hp, with 820 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 18.2 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
BMW i5 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 i5 better than the Tesla Model Y?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. BMW i5 makes about 101% more power (601 vs 299 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW i5 and the Tesla Model Y?
BMW i5 makes about 101% more power (601 vs 299 hp). Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 18.2.
Which is better value?
BMW i5 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW i5 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.