I currently want a new car, and I’ve known for a while that I want a Tesla, I just can’t really decide between the Model 3 or the Model Y. What made you choose the Model 3 over the Model Y? Do you have any regrets buying the vehicle you did? Anything else you’d do different?
Yup. aesthetics, handling, more affordable and i don't have kids. Also no regrets getting a performance over a long range btw in case you're wondering which to get. I would steer away from a brand new base model and get one used since they're so affordable now
This. The model Y is ugg and most people in the car community outside Tesla seem to agree on that
Model 3 is the opposite.
Model Y looks like the older brother of the model 3 except it’s missing a chromosome
missing a chromosome😂😂😂😂😂😂
The 3 is one of the sexiest cars I’ve ever seen. The Y is not.
I honestly thought that the Y was a joke model when it was first announced, like Y would you buy that?
I didn’t want an suv
Model Y looks like a thumb
My favorite comment someone wrote on this topic is: “A model Y looks like a model 3 who let themselves go after high school” hahah
Mine is "Model Y looks like a pregnant Model 3"
“The Model Y looks like your girlfriend’s fat sister.”
A lifted Prius.
As the owner of both .. I will never unsee this now 😭
My answer is just 3 letters, LFP .. wasn’t offered in any other version, it was my first EV, and so I went with the most durable battery available..
Can confirm, if I Look out the window. 🥲 Glad, I‘m not alone in this 😂
I always tell my wife “it’s bulbous” lol
A bloated toad
Like goldfish
I chose a 3P because I do not have a family, I like being low and stable, and feel very maneuverable with nearly no blindspots.
Beware the harsh realities of being only ~55” tall in a world where the bottom of a truck’s window may start at 60” above the ground.
I have the M3p and a family, two teenage kids. I pick them up from school everyday. We can fit a cello, violin, their backpacks, two softball gear bags, and another large sports gear bag with sparring gear in the trunk, without folding seats down.
People make it seem like suddenly you need SUVs if you have kids or go to Home Depot. Go to Vietnam and you’ll see construction workers carrying lumber and plywood on mopeds.
I'm a 6" tall dad of 2, both in car seats, one forward facing and one rear facing, and the model 3 fits them and all their detritus just fine. The only problem we've had is getting a double stroller plus all their stuff in, but it really just requires you to pack the lower storage section first, then load the stroller. The front-facing seat goes behind the driver (99% of the time that's me) for legroom purposes. It works great
I'm amazed you can drive the car being only 6 inches tall. How do your legs reach the pedals while you're looking out the windshield? I'm genuinely curious
see Toy Story movies
Happy to hear this. There was a thread just today asking the opposite- why folks chose the MY over the M3. We too chose the M3P. Convinced we were going to be pragmatic and get the Y my spouse and I test drove both. It didn’t take long for us to switch our decision, “practicality be damned” but it’s nice to hear it works for some as a family car. We have an out because we have a minivan too. Can’t wait to get it.
Yeah, SUVs aren’t needed for most. Growing up my Dad had more coupes than sedans. Family of 5 and all us kids would park our butts in the rear of a Monte Carlo or Thunderbird and we’d be on our way. Those personal luxury coupes are what made me fall in love with the automobile. Sure as hell wouldn’t have happened with a crossover or SUV, although some of the new coupe SUVs like the GV80 Coupe do catch my eye.
We are on the short side and the 3 has terrific visibility compared to the other Tesla models.
The looks. Unpopular opinion but the Y is soooo weird looking
Model 3 - sporty
Model Y - family
Same here, did not like the look of the Y, and it was 10k more at the time. 3 had longer range and it has enough room for me, although I would have preferred a station wagon. Nobody were making electric station wagons though...
Indeed, my wife can't stand the Y.
Probably not that unpopular. I've always felt that the Y looks like a mutant Model 3. The coupe-esque styling is also a little too reminiscent of ugly SUVs like the BMW X6 or Mercedes GLE Coupe - though I'll give the Y a pass because there's a range benefit from improved aerodynamics.
I actually enjoy the look of the model 3 over the y.
The model 3 is more nimble. 3 point turns are a breeze. Drives like a sports car. The Y is very chunky sluggish feeling, drives like an SUV.
The model 3 turning radius is nowhere near a sports cars, but compared to a model Y, I suppose that would make more sense.
gawd the turning circle in my 3 is almost as large as transverse FWD 6-cyl cars with an OAL of ~200", just shy of a mini van
yeah, first time I made a U-turn in my 3 had an almost jaw-dropping "whoa WTF"; was not expecting how wide it is
it's the case with a lot of bespoke EV platforms that really stretch out the wheelbase-to-length ratio. You get a car that's small on the outside and big on the inside which is awesome, but the turning radius can be quite a shocker if you're not used to driving larger vehicles.
i wish these things would come with super tight steering ratios, and bump up the heaviness of the steering wheel to make up for potential twitchy-ness
Sept 2022. Cost. I’ll leave it at that.
Spot on, my fellow Sept 2022 buyer.
I love the Model 3, just wish it was a hatchback. Model Y is alright, but meh...
Why is it not a hatch back? Everything should be a hatch back, it just makes sense.
Test drove both and preferred the way model 3 drove.
The Y is not an attractive car, like an overinflated Model 3.
Otherwise, I’m trying to convince my wife to trade her car in on a Y, because we could use something with a bit more space than my 3.
This is the way. Get the wife a Y, dog and junk goes in there. 3 still works with three in the back and I tow a trailer for big things...
I always wanted to get a Tesla, demo drove a Model Y in March, as expected, I loved it, and the sales rep told me after the drive that the new M3 was also there and they actually had it in inventory and available to drive. Took the chance, I immediately fell in love how quick and nimble it was! Picked up 3 days after.
0-60 speed
The model 3 looks better (IMO) and it was less expensive
Newest technology and design is here now with the Model 3 making the Y a lot more dated. Getting a Y means your settling for something that will immediately get replaced with a lot of 3-like design aesthetic and tech next year, vs just getting the 3 and enjoying all that now…
Can you expand on “newest technology”. With M3 Highland they added HW4 which was already available on the MY. Aside from addition of new features what’s the technology gap?
Enhanced suspension for better ride quality (feeling road gravel and speed bumps less that before), double paned acoustic glass on all doors (not just driver side) for quieter interior… LEDs around the whole cabin for aesthetics, smaller bezels for the 15in screen, rear touchscreen capable of listening to music and watching videos independently pairable to Bluetooth speaker or headset, shifting now integrated in screen and steering wheel with turn signals (no stalks) just like a baby model S, enhanced speaker technology going up to a max of 17 speakers with LR or Performance for improved immersion and soundstage that puts many other premium sound system offerings by other vehicle manufacturers to shame, improved efficiency, improved door design for improved safety upon impact, smoother glovebox closure/operation.
Just to name a few, there are other design elements are also nice touches like placement of where the windshield wiper fluid intake goes… instead of being between frunk and the dash, moving the placement to the head of the car, which is just a taste of some of the finer details that make more sense.
The efficiency of the new LR highland cannot be over looked, I’m getting epa range even going 80mph on a road trip.
Tesla replaced the suspension on the Model Y in 2023 with a new comfort suspension which comes pretty close to matching the performance of the Highland M3. I’ve driven both and the M3 is better, but not that much better.
It is true that the overall improvements they made to Highland make for a very nice upgrade compared to the current generation M3. However, I was able to purchase a Performance MY in March for $39.5K because of the tax credit. That puts it at almost the same price as the base model RWD M3. Between the two I’d much rather have the MYP for the overall better acceleration and larger seating and cargo area.
The M3P is attractive because of the tax credit if you are eligible. But I’d argue the LR M3 right now is overpriced since it does not qualify for the credit, whereas all Model Y’s qualify.
Got my model 3 RWD in Nov 2023. Picked over the Y for looks and, at the time, cost. Y was over 7K more. The only feature I’d like from the Y is the hatchback. I’ve had the occasional issue getting bulky things into the trunk opening. Otherwise, for me, the only has been great. Kind of love my car. As of now I’m planning on getting the new styled Model 3 Performance when my lease is up in late 2026.
Speed and distance with M3LR, didn’t want more, didn’t need more. Fast enough 🙂🏎️
Refreshed M3 due to better build quality, less road noise, design, suspension, ventilated seats, etc.
Dad bod vs fit athlete.
I haven’t bought one yet, but I’m waiting for a good deal on the M3 (not having the tax credit is a big killer for me).
I test drove both. The MY feels like I’m driving inside of one large blind spot. I feel like I can’t see anything! Then I drove the refreshed M3 and it felt great. Handled well, visibility was better, overall just felt more comfortable. I drive both an SUV and a sedan, so I’m used to both types of vehicles. But the MY doesn’t feel like an SUV. It feels more like a bulky sedan with more blind spots.
So I’d rather take the 3.
Porsche vs Beetle
I don't need the space always prefer a smaller car. More responsive, lower center of gravity, better parking spots.
Of course, still pile 4 people into it all the time for road trips.
Smaller cars for the win.
Y long range was not available when I ordered and it was what I wanted initially. Model 3 long range wasn’t available. But the M3P was and was in my budget with the nice tax break last year. Family of 4 and we took it on 8 hour drive to the beach on vacation. Trunk space is excellent. We fit all the suitcases, plus boards,metal detector,cooler, and beach toys in the trunk no problem. It works out fine for us. It would be nice to have the increased cabin space of the Y when I have 4 tall adults in the car, when multiple 6 ft plus 250lb plus are with me. But standard size humans fit comfortably.
I personally didn’t like the drive in the Y vs 3
I have only ever driven a coupe and the crossover wasn’t my jam. Long term I should have gotten a Y but oh well lol
I have both the 3 and the Y. The 3 is much more enjoyable drive for me and something with how the seats are lower to the floor make it more comfortable for me. I also like the sportier look and feel of the car when driving it
I picked the refresh model 3. I would’ve gone for the Y between the old model 3 and the Y. I honestly don’t like the design and build quality of those models. They feel much cheaper and rattley, also.
I like that the model Y is bigger and has a hatch back. That can be really useful! It is also higher than the 3. I have a hard time getting in and out of my model 3, so that sucks.
The y was 71k starting.
5k less when I purchased.
Range
Too egg shape plus latest tech
faster, smaller, more range
Range and it looks better. I also don't have children (never will) and i think in all my life I've had people in the back of my car maybe 4 times so there has never been any need for a bigger car. If i could have a premium hatchback or 3 door that does the same EV mileage as a Model 3 i would get one in a heartbeat.
Sporty look, planted to ground, acceleration, cornering stability, huge trunk space for any sedan. MY has that cartoon bloated look to it, though I understand those with small children or advanced osteoarthritis preferring it.
I’m a tall person, and after demo driving a Y, I actually thought the 3 was more comfortable and felt more spacious in the front than the Y
Prefer the looks, faster acceleration, sportier drive, wish it was a hatchback.
I don't need baby car seats.
I chose a 3 because I liked the way it felt to drive. Felt better connected to the road at the time. I do wish I had a Y for the height and space but, I still love my 3.
Bought a Model 3 in 2023. I preferred the low slung sleeker styling. My wife preferred the height of the Y, but I didn’t like the Ys fat butt.
I’ve come to appreciate the Y more, but still love my 3.
If I had it to do over again, I probably would’ve gotten the AWD over the RWD, primarily for the range.
I chose a model 3 because that's what has cool kids choose.
I fit well in the vehicle, I like the way it drove. Faster and longer range.
If it’s just for you, the 3 has better handling, and the new refreshed model is quieter than the current Y. But if you have a family, or will routinely carry adults in the back seat, the Y is a better choice.
model 3 has the refresh
At the time, cost. I would buy a Y instead today. The consolation is my 3 is more efficient.
I don’t have kids lol. But in all seriousness, I’ve been wanting a Tesla since 2015 when they first came out with the model S I knew one day I’ll be able to get the P100D which is now known as plaid.
New model 3 is definitely going to feel much like a luxury car for anyone who is used to the previous model 3 (I have a 2021) I was thinking of getting that however that starts at 41k if you include fees.
Tesla just announced .99% financing for model Y in the states and we also get a $7500 tax credit if making less than $150k per year. This would make the car around the same price but probably at least $200 cheaper per month due to the low interest rate.
The features you get in the long range model Y vs the new model 3 standard range (they’re both the cheapest option around 38-40k)
Model y long range has upgraded sound system with subwoofer AWD Bigger space and hatchback 70mile or so additional range
Model 3 is gonna feel more luxurious through its materials, suspension, and quiet inside
Technically model 3 standard range and model y long range have the same daily range. For example the model 3 has a battery that is ok to charge to 100% while the model y is better to charge to 80% daily.
Because of this, on the day to day, you have the same range which is an upgrade from my model.
If you’re coming from an economical car both will feel luxurious. If you are coming from a luxury car, they both will look luxurious but the model 3 will feel more luxurious since it’s quieter and softer.
You decide what’s more important for you
Model Y is the ugly sibling of Model 3. Born on a dark night, suffering deformities during its premature arrival in this world. On the other hand, it’s at a throw away price right now, so may be something of think of.
LFP battery.
I already have a crossover SUV. One of my favorite cars I’ve owned was a Mazda 3 stick shift so I wanted a sedan.
The trunk space is amazing with the 3.
The Y looks like a bloated 3.
Model 3 is better in every single way except space. I don’t need more space.
Looks, price, and range, but now that I tried to pack a few suitcases and a stroller in the model 3 I wish I would’ve gone for the Y.
Model Y wasn't out yet when we got our Model 3s. I'd probably pick a Y if I were buying today because I can convert more cargo space into higher earnings in my line of work, but I'm probably not going to upgrade until my 3 doesn't work anymore. It's been a reliable workhorse for me and I'm quite fond of it.
I was set on the model y then I test drove both 2024 models and the model y seats were really uncomfortable compared to the model 3. Model 3 is quieter too. But currently the model y has a good deal right now with the 0.99% rate so that may sway your decision. Test drive both and see what you like better. You’ll know after that
We have both.
I traded from a hatchback and would have preferred to buy a hatchback if there were good EV hatchback options. I definitely wasn’t going to go from a tiny hatchback to an SUV. So I picked a 3.
My husband likes the extra space that his Y provides. He has only ever had the Y’s size of cars since moving to the US, so it was a no brainer for him. I don’t think the space makes a big difference in day-to-day use.
My husband likes driving my 3 more. Better handling, feels more zippy (even though his 0-60 is faster than mine - RWD 3 vs LR Y). I like driving mine more too but I’m biased obviously lol
I usually drive alone or with my spouse. Rarely any passengers. I don't carry any cargo that requires more space. I don't care about sitting up a few inches higher. I survived for years with smaller cars, so why buy an SUV?
I suggest you ask the same question of the r/teslamodely subreddit too
Model Y is like a utility vehicle. Its not fun to drive at all. Model Y has its own positives, but aesthetics, driving fun, comfort, handling are not one of those. But if you have kids and space is your concern, then Model Y is the one for you. Also if you are considering buying a new one, M3 Highlands took it to another level on model 3s
Well.. they didn't have the model y when I bought my model 3. But too, I don't like the styling.
Y looks too big, all I do is drive to work and around town a bit
Surprisingly, the Y had less leg space for my big 12 year old son in the back seat. Thats why I went with the 2024 M3.
Money. 21 M3 was 21k. Couldn’t get a Y anywhere near that price.
The deciding factor for me was a faster 0-60 time. Went with a long range model 3. No regrets, my next model will be a performance, if I don’t manage to get a Cybertruck. With kids, I would not get a 3. It’s just not spacious enough imo. And you really are at a disadvantage on the road being so low to the ground. Model Y is currently on promotion for 0.99% financing until the end of the month. Model Y Performance Quicksilver is a really good choice right now. The model 3 did get a recent refresh though.
So do you want the newer more expensive, sportier, small sedan, or the spacious, cheaper, SUV?
With kids the deciding factor for me would be safety. The Y has the practical advantage of being higher off the ground.
I already have the X and SUV and I wanted a discounted performance vehicle with awesome handling, track mode, range, aesthetics, and FSD while being a great daily. I found a used 2019 P3D with FSD and low mileage for a GREAT price. And that’s that
Model Y and X looks ugly. Was not even a consideration and I will never buy one. Just no.
Couldn't afford the Y otherwise I would have!!
More energy efficient, better looking, better handling, more range.
They drive nothing alike imo, the model 3 handles better, lower down, just feels nicer. Model Y is more practical, if you need a massive boot its brilliant, but personally I just really didn't enjoy driving it like I do the model 3.
Honestly I'd say try both and see which one you prefer.
If you like SUV's you'll probably prefer the Model Y, If you enjoy driving on a nice road you'll probably prefer the 3, if you have bad legs and on the waiting list for a new hip go model Y!
Reengineered 2024 model
I don’t like SUVs.
Bought my m3 Jan of 2022 which was near peak of market. Couldn’t justify almost another 10k just for a couple extra inches of ride height and less range.
Yes I regret because it was near peak of market lol. Tax credit also didn’t apply to vehicle purchase price at the time and I didn’t qualify for it. Could nearly buy 2 model y’s now, esp since they apply tax credit to vehicle purchase price. Also really miss the comfort of an SUV. Feel like m3 is a bit too low for me. Still love my car nonetheless.
I personally think there’s barely any difference between them looks wise. I have heard people say the other one is extremely ugly and I’m like bruh they are so similar, one more coupe/sedan and one more suv/crossover like.
I got the 3 because the Y was not out. Then I got another 3 (SR to LR) and the Y was quite a bit more expensive. I think I would get a Y next time as the kids are all bigger and the extra space is noticeable. There are more and more cars that size and the more competitive the better.
Even w kids, the Model 3 has more than enough space. We road tripped across Europe and used all the space, but tbh we took more than we needed clothes wise. I wouldn’t like to do such a long trip again as they have all grown. With a Y they would have that much more space for legs and so on
(Some?) Model Ys have a subsonic “boomy” noise/resonance that some people (including my wife and I) find annoying and really fatiguing. Some people don’t hear it at all. We go to our early 2021 Y and wanted to return it. Tesla says the noise doesn’t exist and returning it was gonna be a nightmare so we kept it. It’s described in detail here, though I’ve only read up to comment 301 - maybe I’ll read the rest in case they found a fix.
https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/ear-pain-pressure-help.205783
I will say that after 3.5 years the noise has either lessened or we’ve become less sensitive. But for a year or so we dreaded driving it. Not an issue for my 2018 TM3 or my 2024 TM3, which I am loving.
I have just sold my 23 Y and expecting delivery of a new 3. From owner perspective I can tell you new 3 is much more refined. Much better suspension, quieter, better sound system, new HW4 (Europe model Y still has HW3) , much more engaging and fun to drive.
Cause I already have a Y.
Look, handling, affordability, speed.
The price. Then 1 month after my purchase the Y drops well below what I paid a 3 for. 😢
It’s better looking, better acceleration, longer range and more fun to drive.
it was cheaper
I have had both. I miss the nimbleness, tight, fun and fast model 3. If you don’t have a family, it’s a great car, especially the new model. For the Mode Y, I like the higher ride, the space and the ease of getting in and out. Having the space in the back is a big plus too since I have a family now.
I had a 2020 M3 and husband bought a 2023 Y. The 3 is so much more fun to drive that I traded my 2020 for a 2024 Model 3 long range. SO much fun. Great ride, acceleration and improved handling.
3 looks better and drives better and is more energy efficient. And it's cheaper. Just get a 3 Performance, especially if you qualify for the tax credit. It's an insane deal. I've owned S, 3, and X. Really can't go wrong with any Tesla model.
Right now the Y has 0.99% financing until the end of the month. That’s a huge payment savings if you needed an incentive to go for the Y.
Model y looks really good with lowering springs and bigger, thicker wheels/tires
I am 190cm tall and still fit on a model 3 comfortably with similarly sized back seat passengers. Why get an SUV and loose stability in turns and sidewinds?
I just bought both.
I bought the Model 3 LFP version. I work in tech and we use LFP batteries in some of our products. We have done a lot of testing on these batteries and the batteries will outlast the products in field.
Also, cheapest Tesla that is also quick enough from stop to standard traffic speeds.
I suspect, Model 3 LFP will maintain higher range than the Perfomance or Long Range versions over the next few years and it will maintain its value.
Wanted a model Y but didn’t want to pay the difference of 15k and now they made it so cheap to get one that I convinced myself the M3 is the best choice
Although I have a family of 5, I realized I was really buying a tool for commenting. Single person commute, cheaper price, better driving dynamics (I was told). I didn’t realize how much my wife would like the car, but now wish I would have bought a Y for more family hauling.
Have you test drove both? The highland has too much improvement over the Y that’s still on the old build. The drive on the 3 is so much better. It’s also a much more fun drive. I actually have a family with 2 young kids and everyone prefers the 3. I brought them along during test drive. Unless you carry a lot of items all the time, kids are still small that you need to put car seat, intend to camp in the car a lot, the 3 has plenty of space too for both passenger and boot space. Hope this helps and hope you join us soon! (:
I have test drove all three, old 3 (also rented over a few days) a Y (also rented over a few days) and I test drove the new 3. I don’t have any kids yet, but I do plan on it in a few years. I’ve never “camped” in a car before, but it does sound fun.
What made you?
Model Y didn't exist when needed the new car
Regrets / Do Different?
NOT spent almost $15K (Canadian) on FSD
Then wind up having to wait 5yrs, until the initial full warranty expired, before Tesla allowing/activating "beta" FSD.
*Believed the lies in 2016 about the "will drive itself across country by end of 2017"
*Note: Didn't actually believe the claims... suspected prob 5yrs+... but couldn't imagine they'd be THAT wildly wrong & misleading as far as what FSD could do & by when. Ugh!
Looks and available space in garage.
Model 3 because I usually just drive myself and it is more nimble, less boat like. I would get the model Y though if I needed a more practical car for
Because it ( MY) looks like an EGG
Model y wasn’t even introduced yet. I got the dual motor model 3 and I still love the car
I just had a demo drive in a Y and considered trading in my dual motor performance 3 because I don't really need the range and the warranty expires later this year. But then I decided to wait until I'm too arthritic to get out of the low seat! lol And it's safer in snow and rain, very grippy. I'm taking a chance on the expired warranty. Just one more year anyway--it's too much fun to drive.
I had ordered the model 3, test drive it and thought I was completely sold. I then test drove the Y performance and sold my second car to get the Y. Now we have both. The Y is really nice for transporting the family. It feels like a very sporty SUV and it sits high enough to be present on the road. Still waiting for my 3 performance to come in. But I don’t regret the Y at all and the tax incentive is really nice if you can qualify.
Traded in my Model 3 Performance for my Model Y LR. Absolute only thing I miss is the looks outside. I raced that thing damn near every day for the first 8-10 months and got that out of my system. My Y drives much better. No more dodging potholes on the way to and from work. No more squeezing people inside. It's only a few inches bigger headroom and width but it makes a world of difference. Plus, I camp a lot. And this thing can hold way more gear. I honestly wish I'd have gotten it instead of my 3 but I'm also glad I got to experience the neck breaking acceleration of the 3 lol
Faster, better handling, I think the 3 is one of the sexiest cars on the road, while the Y looks too tall for my liking.
I’m 6’6” and have no problem fitting in the 3. Though I do feel bad for my 72 year old dad that has trouble getting into my car since it’s fairly low.
Smaller cars also make the road safer for everybody.
I hate crossover and SUV so much, to me its so ugly and reeks so much of a family car, so i choose the model 3.
I wanted a Y, but the rearview mirror hangs down so low that it blocks my view forward. The 3 has better visibility for me.
I could actually afford the model 3! Got mine used (only 2 years old) for less than $30k.
Didn't want a minivan.
Better handling, more efficient, cheaper.
3 is a much better car, better performance, better handling, better looking. And now, with the highland, it has moved ahead even further.
Y has more boot space and a hatchback. If you must have those, then the Y makes sense.
My wife decided for me
I prefer the handling of the model 3 and the interior refresh looks much better. The wood dash is dated. With that said, the current model Y .99% APR is insane.
August 2020, dying for a Y but 'settling' for my 3LR ($5K diff, with the 3 still being the most expensive car I'd ever considered; I got the LR over the SR because of the sound system. The range increase was nice, too). May upgrade to a Y eventually, but the 3 is as compelling as ever, especially now that the suspension is improved and the noise level reduced. Two great choices, either the Y or the 3.
Model Y is pretty ugly. The Model 3 also feels and is much more planted. Since I was getting a performance model the Y just didn't make sense
I also own a Honda Odyssey which is what we use when we need to haul the family around.
I have a 2018 so 3P was the best choice then.
If they could produce a Y with the adaptive dampers the new 3P has and speed it up a little , it could be a winner.
I don’t need the extra space, the range is more on the 3, and most importantly, cheaper. The suspension on this new M3 is amazing. I can’t wait to test it out in a NY winter.
3 because it's efficient and a good car for commuting. If I need an SUV, I have a real SUV for that. The model y is just a worse car and a worse SUV by somehow being neither one.
If you’re ok with either, the model y performance is pretty cheap right now with 0.99% financing. I went with a used 3. I don’t like the model y. It looks like they took the 3 and just started stretching it in photoshop and now it looks awkward.
The YP is amazing if you need the space, but the Highland creature comforts alone are a big upgrade.
The new 3P will be super fast compared to the YP.
The Model Y wasn't remotely a consideration for me.
I don't like SUVs really. Too much vehicle that I won't use.
No kids by choice, so no need to haul people regularly or their stuff. I don't even need to haul ny own stuff very often. I could easily get away with a two-seater.
I don't love how Y looks like a 3 that gained weight.
The Model 3 has better weight distribution and mass centralization, less mass overall, sleeker lines, and a more focused car in a Performance Model 3, which I have. Plus, the 3 is much less expensive.
I prefer smaller cars. If Tesla made a smaller hot hatch with >250 miles of range I'd probably be driving that.
The Model 3 has quite a bit of cargo capacity, certainly enough for me.
The handling on the 3P is incredible. No lag between thought and action. The trunk space is also fabulous enough that I don’t really need the Y hatchback.
That said, I wish the 3 had the backseat comfort of the Y. The front seats in the Y are higher, so backseat passenger legs can go further underneath, which makes it feel like so much more legroom. I think the Y back seats recline too which would be great on road trips.
So if your priority is driving experience, get the 3. If you’re going to road trip with 3+ people, get the Y.
It was cheaper and I was able to get an extra $7500 in state rebates since it was under the price cap at the time.
I always had compact hatchback. Even M3 is way bigger than I need, but there was literally nothing on the market which was small and with such price/equipment/range ratio as M3. Also I need tow hook and compact EVs either don't have the option or are limited to 150kg.
bought a ylr then bought a 3p. no regrets with either
Both are amazing. Test drive both. Either will be the best car uve ever had.
Really just depends if u want sedan or suv. The 3 does have better suspension and better noise isolation which I really really care about
The Model Y didn’t exist.
I can get out of my model Y, I am old
I always had compact hatchback. Even M3 is way bigger than I need, but there was literally nothing on the market which was small and with such price/equipment/range ratio as M3. Also I need tow hook and compact EVs either don't have the option or are limited to 150kg max while the hook option costs as much as if it was pulling 1.5 ton.
I’ve driven every model of Tesla. Model 3 handles much better than a model Y. Model Ys handle a lot like a minivan, big and clunky. If you want good handling go with a model 3, it’s much more sporty feeling and it’s still pretty practical. If you value more trunk space or have a big family, go with a Y, it’s much more “family car”
Model 3 looks better
I wanted a sedan that drives more sporty.
Handling, drive me both around a corner fast. Or swerve at 40+ mph and you’ll notice a difference immediately
Primary reason is that it was just a bit out of my price range for what I needed. Secondary reason is because I prefer the lower ride, as I've driven a few vehicles with a higher seated position before, and many of them felt very uncomfortable in corners - like it was gonna tip over. I do envy the increased trunk space, though.
3 is more fun to drive, easier to park and more efficient. You get the y if you need the space. The y also has more road noise to me due to open hatchback design.
I got the 3 and no regrets.
The acoustics inside. When I was in the driving position, I heard my own voice echo. Super annoying. Other reasons: it just looks like a bloated model 3.
But mostly the echo inside. Super annoying
We are lucky enough to have a ‘22 3 and a ‘22 Y, at the time we both agreed if we could have only one it would be the 3, just because it was much cheaper, drives better, looks better and young kids still fit fine with car seats in it. The frunk makes it much more usable for a small family than a typical compact sedan.
At current day prices, as much as I love the Highland, I would go for a Y because it works better for a small family. Basically if you are big bodied or have a family it’s a no brainer to go with a Y.
Price, efficency, sportier.
I like to have a small and efficent car. Used Model 3's are the cheapest good EV's one can buy used right now.
I regret not waiting a bit longer, bought it last year before the highland was released. I could have saved about 5k on the used market.
Because it was cheaper at it qualified for the tax credit at the time.
But I’ve always wanted a Y over the 3. I will wait for the Juniper Y to release then switch over.
I needed something slower then my 2020 model x performance before I killed myself. traded for a 2023 model 3 SR and cash.
I sorta regret not finding a older model-x to be honest, being able to tow would have made a huge difference to me recently.
The Y wasn’t available when I bought my 3. With that said, I detest all SUV/crossover type vehicles so I wouldn’t have chosen a Y anyway. I prefer a sportier ride.
You get more whine from electric motors in the Y. Some people don't hear it but some of us can and it sounds way louder
The Y just looks like it has a fat butt. It was immediately unattractive.
The ride is smoother on a M3
I probably would have myp’d if it qualified at the time during all the price changes. But then other times i like the better handling and being lower. I have a family and in terms of passenger space its about the same (assuming youre not trying to do 7)
Price at the time and I didn't need the size of the Y.
The test drive. /Thread
Driving position. I’m used to being low to the ground.
Looks and cost
M3 is your ultimate bachelor car
garage/driveway space :(
For me it was the cost at first, but then we figured having a bigger vehicle would be better for the family which put us in the direction of the Y. However, we ended up buying a Diesel GMC Sierra which made the decision of buying a smaller MP3 more appealing.
Redesign. The model 3 has a new design meaning the Y will have a new design soon
Better handling, better performance, better efficiency, better looks.
The price initially. Used they’re weren’t far off but it’s really just gonna be me in the car 90% of the time. I don’t need the space in the Y yet. I’m 6’1” and fit comfortably in the 3. Maybe in 3 years I’ll trade in to a Y.
It’s more fun to drive.
Leg room. I'm tall and the model 3 has almost 1" more driver legroom, which makes a big difference when you're tall.
I much prefer the driving dynamics of a sedan.
We have both, the 3 rides way better.
The Y was made in Austin, 3 in Freemont both 2023. The 3 has better build quality. Less creeking, wind noise and generally quieter.
I got my model 3 for next to nothing, THANKS HERTZ.
Model Y felt like a big car in traffic, model 3 doesn’t. So I went with the 3
Agree with others. Some like skinny and some like chunky and some like really big
Price. After tax credit, my 2023 model 3 was $30,120.
95% of the time, it’s just me in my car. I don’t have any roommates or a family to ride with me anywhere. If I have anyone else with me, typically it’s just one other person in the front passenger seat. So I don’t really need to worry much about people moving.
Drove model y performance and it was okay, drove model 3 long range and for whatever reason the sedan felt sportier than Y
Drove model y performance and it was okay, drove model 3 long range and for whatever reason the sedan felt sportier than Y
Better driving dynamics on model 3
With my budget I could afford the M3P or the MY long range. We have a CR-V and don’t need another SUV, so I opted for the M3.
Model 3 is much more pretty, longer range, much better handling