In our in-depth Tesla Model Y vs NEW BMW iX3 comparison, we head out on a 600-mile road trip to find out if BMW has finally beaten Tesla!
For years, the Model Y has been the king of long-distance electric SUV travel, but the new iX3 xDrive50 promises a massive 500-mile range and 400kW charging. To find out the TRUTH about long EV journeys in 2026, we’re driving from London to Yorkshire (and back) to put these two heavyweight electric cars to the ultimate test.
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In this review, we explain the difference in charging costs and reveal why the BMW arrived earlier but at a higher price. We also compare the Tesla Supercharger network against other public charging providers, and find out which of these electric SUVs is more rewarding to drive on the North York Moors.
Presented by: Will Nightingale & John Howell
Videography by: Jonty Renk & Tom Goodban
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Video chapters:
0:00 – Intro: London to Yorkshire road trip
1:08 – The cars: 500-mile BMW vs 391-mile Tesla
3:38 – Infotainment: Tesla integration vs BMW nav
5:55 – Update & the 30% battery rule
8:20 – Charging: Tesla Superchargers
8:50 – Arrival at Whitby Abbey! Efficiency & battery charge
10:55 – Interiors: iX3 vs Model Y
14:59 – Rear space & boot
16:12 – Driving: Ride comfort, handling & refinement
20:05 – Range anxiety: when the sat nav says -1%!
22:58 – Charging: BMW vs Tesla in the real world
27:58 – Costs & efficiency
34:45 – Verdict: time vs stress – which is the better long-range EV?