Changan UNI-V vs Tesla Model S
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Changan UNI-V | Tesla Model S | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 188 | 670 | -71.9% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 300 | 949 | -68.4% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (C-NCAP) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Petrol | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 7-DCT | 1-Speed Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $16,366 | $76,500 | -78.6% |
- Tesla Model S makes about 72% more power (670 vs 188 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (China and US); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: UNI-V or Model S?
Changan UNI-V advantages
- Affordability (+79%)
Tesla Model S advantages
- Engine power (+72%)
- Pulling torque (+68%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Changan UNI-V if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Changan UNI-V delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Changan UNI-V vs Tesla Model S: which should you choose?
Changan UNI-V (2021 1.5T DCT Premium) — petrol sedan with 188 hp and 300 Nm, rated at 16.1 km/L, 5-star C-NCAP safety; priced near $16,366 in the China market.
Tesla Model S (2026 Dual Motor AWD) — electric sedan with 670 hp and 949 Nm, rated at 17.5 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $76,500 in the US market.
Changan UNI-V vs Tesla Model S: Tesla Model S is more powerful. Tesla Model S makes about 72% more power (670 vs 188 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Tesla Model S is the more powerful, at 670 hp against 188 hp, with 949 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a 1-speed automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Petrol vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Changan UNI-V is rated 5 stars by C-NCAP and Tesla Model S 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Changan UNI-V lists lower at about $16,366 (USD-converted from the China 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 Changan UNI-V better than the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S takes the overall edge, though Changan UNI-V wins in specific areas worth weighing. Tesla Model S makes about 72% more power (670 vs 188 hp).
What is the main difference between the Changan UNI-V and the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S makes about 72% more power (670 vs 188 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Changan UNI-V delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Changan UNI-V if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
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.