Tesla Model 3 vs. Volkswagen ID.3: which is better?
Looking for a small electric car but aren't sure which is best? Read our comparison between the Model 3 and the ID.3 to find out which is best for you
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Two of the hottest electric hatchbacks that everyone’s talking about are the Tesla Model 3 and Volkswagen ID.3.
From futuristic styling and the latest and greatest in-car technology, these are two small EVs you won’t want to miss out on.
In this head-to-head review, we compare the VW ID.3 against the Tesla Model 3 to see which is better suited to your lifestyle, and which is worth spending your hard-earned cash on.
Styling
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Styling is subjective, and as the old saying goes, ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’, so we can’t decide which is better looking on your behalf, but we can certainly give you pointers to certain design cues.
In the looks department, both cars are designed like spaceships, with smooth curves and focused-looking front ends.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is like nothing VW had ever produced at the time of its launch in 2019, offering a clean and simple design with an aerodynamically minded front end to increase efficiency.
In fact, the only time VW has made a car that can be likened to it is the XL1 – a limited production hybrid diesel two-seater sports car.
As for the Tesla Model 3, this is much more like something we’ve grown used to, sharing its styling with other Tesla models including the Model S, Model X and Model Y.
However, the facelifted Model 3 has taken a new direction, with narrower headlights and an even sleeker rear.
What are they like to drive?
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For a long time, all electric cars felt very similar to drive. Some still do, but Tesla and VW have been working hard to give their cars some characteristics you never used to find in an EV.
The ID.3 sits on the MEB platform that’s shared between Audi, Skoda and Cupra’s electric cars. Despite being used for many different models, it still offers great handling and acceleration out of corners.
This is by no means a performance car, but in terms of regular day-to-day driving, it’s a breeze, adopting lots of the same driving dynamics from the Golf and Polo.
The Model 3, despite being Tesla’s cheapest model, is excellent to drive and borrows many parts from its more performance-oriented Model S relative.
Thanks to the instant electric torque, the mighty ‘3’ is off the line quicker than a sports car and continues to be punctual throughout any road trip.
It’s also incredibly easy to drive, as all EVs are, benefitting from an improved suspension that gives you increased confidence around corners.
If you’re into driving and want to make the switch to an electric car, both of these are great options. But if you just need something reliable and sturdy to get you from A to B then you can’t go wrong with either model.
Interior and technology
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When you step inside either car, you’ll be greeted with a well-built and functional interior packed with the latest technology and features.
The VW ID.3 benefits from an open and spacious interior with a large 10-inch central display and very few buttons.
You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity – something you don’t get in the Tesla.
While Teslas usually lead in the tech game, the VW has a nifty augmented reality heads-up display that projects your navigation directions onto the windscreen in front of you, which can be handy to keep your eyes on the road.
The Model 3 looks incredibly sparse inside but is actually one of the most advanced cars on the market.
Its main standout feature is a massive 15.4-inch central infotainment screen that runs on Tesla’s own software, and it's like using an iPad in many ways.
One thing you’ll notice is the distinct lack of buttons, giving it the most minimalist look possible while still being functional.
Boot space and practicality
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On the whole, electric cars are more practical than petrol and diesel vehicles because they gain back the front space where the engine would sit.
This means the Tesla benefits from an extra 88 litres of frontal storage space; however, the VW doesn’t have one due to its battery sitting in place of an engine.
Move to the rear and you’ll find more space, with the VW getting 385 litres of boot space and the Tesla getting 425 litres, which is quite a noticeable increase in size.
As for the rear-seat room, both cars have enough room for three passengers, but we’d recommend sticking to two for longer road trips where possible.
You’re not getting SUV-levels of space, but a lack of transmission tunnel running through the middle helps.
Safety and reliability
All modern passenger cars are much more reliable and safer than they were even a few years ago.
This is because car manufacturers are constantly updating the car’s software and features to make it the safest and most dependable place to be.
Following their most recent Euro NCAP safety tests, both cars scored a full five stars, which is a testament to both brand’s commitment to occupant safety.
When it comes to reliability, electric cars beat almost all petrol and diesel cars because they have fewer moving parts that could, in theory, go wrong.
Both cars score well among owner reviews, with excellent build quality and all-around high-quality drivetrains.
You’d expect this from Volkswagen since it’s one of the largest car brands in the world, but Tesla is less so.
It had its difficulties early doors but has improved massively since, and is now competing with the largest car manufacturers in the world.
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Size and dimensions
VW ID.3
Length: 4,261mm
Width: 1,809mm
Height: 1,562mm
Boot space: 385 litres
Tesla Model 3
Length: 4,694mm
Width: 1,850mm
Height: 1,443mm
Boot space: 425 litres
Volkswagen ID.3 vs. Tesla Model 3: which should you buy?
If you still haven’t made up your mind after reading our comparison, then perhaps our short verdict can help guide you in the right direction.
We’d recommend buying the Volkswagen if you simply need a small electric car that can get you around, with a solid range and plenty of tech.
The ID.3 couldn’t be better at doing this, making it a compelling option.
However, if you want something sportier and with greater acceleration, then a Model 3 is perfect for you.
Not only that but it’s jammed full of tech and can even drive itself, which is beneficial on a boring stretch of motorway.
No matter which you choose, you’re getting a solid electric vehicle that won’t feel outdated for a long time and will still be competitive for years to come.