In a head-to-head road trip challenge from Lowestoft to Land’s End, the £23,000 Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the £23,000 BMW 320d xDrive were put to the test to determine which is faster and more cost-effective for long-distance family travel.
Verdict: The Tesla Model 3 offers quicker acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience, making it the faster option in this comparison.
Verdict: While both vehicles are efficient, the Tesla Model 3 offers lower running costs, particularly when utilizing home charging options.
Verdict: While the BMW offers faster refueling times, the Tesla's expanding charging infrastructure and rapid charging capabilities make it a viable option for long trips.
Considering fuel and electricity prices, the Tesla Model 3's journey would likely be more cost-effective. Electricity costs, especially when charging at home, are generally lower than diesel prices, leading to savings over long distances.
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range emerges as the faster and more economical choice for long-distance family road trips, thanks to its rapid acceleration, lower running costs, and growing charging infrastructure. While the BMW 320d xDrive offers the convenience of quick refueling and a traditional driving experience, the Tesla's advantages in performance and cost-efficiency make it a compelling option for modern travelers.
Performance & Speed
- Tesla Model 3 Long Range: With dual motors and instant torque, the Model 3 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds, offering swift overtaking capabilities and a smooth driving experience.
- BMW 320d xDrive: The diesel-powered 320d achieves 0 to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds, delivering a balanced performance with its 187 bhp engine.
Verdict: The Tesla Model 3 offers quicker acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience, making it the faster option in this comparison.
Efficiency & Running Costs
- Tesla Model 3 Long Range: The Model 3 boasts an energy consumption of approximately 16.7 kWh/100 km, translating to low running costs, especially when charged at home.
- BMW 320d xDrive: With a fuel consumption of around 4.5 L/100 km, the 320d is efficient for a diesel vehicle, but fuel costs remain higher compared to electric charging.
Verdict: While both vehicles are efficient, the Tesla Model 3 offers lower running costs, particularly when utilizing home charging options.
Charging & Refueling
- Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Equipped with access to Tesla's Supercharger network, the Model 3 can add significant range quickly, with a 100 kW charge providing an 80% top-up in about 25 minutes.
- BMW 320d xDrive: Refueling is straightforward and quick, with diesel stations readily available along major routes.
Verdict: While the BMW offers faster refueling times, the Tesla's expanding charging infrastructure and rapid charging capabilities make it a viable option for long trips.
Overall Cost of the Journey
Considering fuel and electricity prices, the Tesla Model 3's journey would likely be more cost-effective. Electricity costs, especially when charging at home, are generally lower than diesel prices, leading to savings over long distances.
Final Verdict
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range emerges as the faster and more economical choice for long-distance family road trips, thanks to its rapid acceleration, lower running costs, and growing charging infrastructure. While the BMW 320d xDrive offers the convenience of quick refueling and a traditional driving experience, the Tesla's advantages in performance and cost-efficiency make it a compelling option for modern travelers.