Tesla Model Y vs BMW i5
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Tesla Model Y | BMW i5 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 299 | 601 | -50.2% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 420 | 820 | -48.8% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 12.0 | 18.2 | -34.1% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $59,508 | $107,460 | -44.6% |
- BMW i5 makes about 50% 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 (EU and Germany); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: Model Y or i5?
Tesla Model Y advantages
- Energy efficiency (+34%)
- Affordability (+45%)
BMW i5 advantages
- Engine power (+50%)
- Pulling torque (+49%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
- Choose the BMW i5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Tesla Model Y if you want the lower upfront cost.
Value for money
BMW i5 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Tesla Model Y vs BMW i5: 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 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 vs BMW i5: BMW i5 is more powerful. BMW i5 makes about 50% 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
Tesla Model Y is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and BMW i5 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 i5?
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 50% more power (601 vs 299 hp).
What is the main difference between the Tesla Model Y and the BMW i5?
BMW i5 makes about 50% 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 Tesla Model Y if you want the lowest charging costs per km. Choose the BMW i5 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.