Tesla Model Y vs BMW i4
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Tesla Model Y | BMW i4 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 299 | 340 | -12.1% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 420 | 430 | -2.3% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 12.0 | 16.1 | -25.5% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $59,508 | $77,544 | -23.3% |
- BMW i4 makes about 12% more power (340 vs 299 hp).
- Tesla Model Y is the more efficient EV, using 12.0 kWh/100km against 16.1.
Verdict: Model Y or i4?
Tesla Model Y advantages
- Energy efficiency (+25%)
- Affordability (+23%)
BMW i4 advantages
- Engine power (+12%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
- Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lower upfront cost.
Value for money
Tesla Model Y delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Tesla Model Y vs BMW i4: which should you choose?
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 (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 vs BMW i4: BMW i4 is more powerful. BMW i4 makes about 12% 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
Tesla Model Y is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and BMW i4 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 Tesla Model Y better than the BMW i4?
Tesla Model Y takes the overall edge, though BMW i4 wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW i4 makes about 12% more power (340 vs 299 hp).
What is the main difference between the Tesla Model Y and the BMW i4?
BMW i4 makes about 12% 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 Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km. Choose the BMW i4 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.