10 Best Tesla Model Y Alternatives
As electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the automotive market, the Tesla Model Y stands out as a popular choice among consumers in the UK. In 2023 alone, Tesla sold 47,840 units, capturing 15.2% of the electric vehicle market share. Its success can be attributed to its impressive performance, innovative design, and the brand’s extensive infrastructure, including over 1,400 Superchargers across the country. However, as the EV landscape evolves, many drivers are seeking alternatives that offer similar features, capabilities, and value.
Tesla recently announced that the Model Y will now be available in a seven-seat configuration, following the launch of the long-range variant of this EV. The move aims to make the Model Y more appealing to those needing extra space, with a price of £54,490—£2,500 more than the five-seater version. However, the boot space decreases by 100 litres, but performance and range remain unchanged, which is great news.
In this blog, we will explore the 10 best Tesla Model Y alternatives for 2025 and how they compare. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV, a high-performance vehicle, or a more budget-conscious option.
Our list will highlight top contenders that meet diverse needs while showcasing advancements in electric vehicle technology. Let’s look at the options available for drivers seeking to make the switch to electric without sticking exclusively to Tesla.
Audi Q4 E-Tron
| Audi Q4 E-Tron | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £47,725-£56,815 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £40,000-£55,000 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £466 |
| Real-world range | 306-329 miles |
| Battery Size | 55-82kWh |
The Audi Q4 e-tron is an excellent family car and a strong alternative to the Tesla Model Y. It offers two battery sizes to choose from: 55 kWh and 82 kWh. There are three trim levels available: Sport, S Line, and Black Edition. Inside the Audi Q4, the flat floor creates a sense of spaciousness, comfortably accommodating up to five passengers in the cabin.
The Q4 E-Tron is a solid alternative to the Tesla Model Y. featuring a refined and premium design along with a high-quality interior. This will appeal to buyers looking for a more traditional SUV experience in the electric car market.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £41,330 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £25,000-£38,000 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £431 |
| Real-world range | 292-371 |
| Battery Size | 72-91kWh |
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a part of the iconic Mustang series, first released in 2020. It offers two different battery sizes and boasts a respectable range, making it ideal for longer journeys. The cabin is practical, featuring ample storage space concentrated in the centre console. Additionally, the back seats provide generous legroom and a flat floor, allowing three adults to sit comfortably across the rear.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a strong alternative to the Tesla Model Y, offering a more aggressive design, engaging driving dynamics and a user-friendly interior. The Mach-E will appeal to consumers who value heritage and practicality in the form of an electric car.
Skoda Enyaq
| Skoda Enyaq | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £38,790-£53,070 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £22,000-£35,000 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £488 |
| Real-world range | 328-348 miles |
| Battery Size | 82kWh |
The Skoda Enyaq is a practical car designed to appeal to families, and in 2024, it received some exciting updates, including an improved infotainment system and increased overall speed. It has a large boot space, offering more capacity than most alternatives, except for the Tesla Model Y. With an RRP ranging from £38,970 to £53,070, the Enyaq offers strong performance and comfort, making it ideal for longer journeys.
The Enyaq is an alternative to the Model Y as it offers a spacious interior (including boot size) along with a practical design. It combines a decent range with affordability and Skoda’s reputation for reliability, making it a good choice for families and those looking for a cost-effective electric car.
Kia EV6
| Kia EV6 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £45,575-£57,175 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £33,000-£48,000 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £745 |
| Real-world range | 263 miles |
| Battery Size | 77.4kWh |
The Kia EV6 features a wide front and a sloping roof, giving it a sporty, dynamic appearance. It offers two options: a 229hp rear-wheel-drive model and a 325hp all-wheel-drive version, both powered by a 77.4kWh battery. The EV6 also provides ample interior space, thanks to its flat rear floor, allowing passengers more legroom. A key selling point is its striking design and interior feel, with a variety of materials and finishes enhancing the cabin. Notably, as you take the driver’s seat, the twin screens that dominate the dashboard immediately stand out.
The Kia EV9 is a great alternative to the Tesla Model Y, offering a bold, boxy design, three-row seating, and a spacious, high-tech interior, making it ideal for families. With competitive range, advanced safety features, and Kia’s strong warranty, it appeals to those seeking a larger, practical electric SUV with excellent value and comfort.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £39,990-£43,000 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £20,590-£31,995 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £449 |
| Real-world range | 273-354 miles |
| Battery Size | 84kWh |
If you are considering a Tesla Model Y, it is worth exploring the Hyundai Ioniq 5. With its sharp lines and angles, the Ioniq 5 presents a futuristic aesthetic while providing the spaciousness required for a family SUV, offering ample room for both passengers and cargo. You can choose the 84kWh battery, along with various configurations of electric motors, including rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. The Ioniq 5 boasts a range of at least 273 miles, extending up to 354 miles depending on the selected options. The cabin is designed for comfort and spaciousness, and even rear passengers can enjoy the added benefit of reclining seats.
It offers a competitive range, fast charging capabilities, and a comfortable driving experience, making it a good match for those seeking a stylish and practical electric SUV.
Nissan Ariya
| Nissan Ariya | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £39,645-£59,025 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £31,595-£34,495 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £391 |
| Real-world range | 250-329 miles |
| Battery Size | 63-87kWh |
The Nissan Ariya combines a smooth and refined ride with an enjoyable driving experience. Inside, it provides ample space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for families. The boot offers a capacity of 466 litres, which is slightly smaller than rivals like the Skoda Enyaq, which has 585 litres. The interior features soft-touch materials and an immersive head-up display that projects vital information and instrument displays, enhancing both comfort and convenience for all passengers.
The Ariya stands as an alternative to the Tesla Model Y, combining a sophisticated and aerodynamic design with a roomy cabin that emphasises comfort and quality. It offers a range of innovative technology features, including a dual-screen setup, and provides a smooth, quiet driving experience, making it ideal for those who prioritise style and a refined ride in an electric SUV.
BMW iX1
| BMW iX1 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £46,205-£61,835 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £33,470 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £572 |
| Real-world range | 260-290 miles |
| Battery Size | 65kWh |
This is the all-electric version of the X1 SUV; the iX1 draws inspiration from the larger iX but stands out as the most compact family option among BMW’s electric SUVs. Excelling in urban settings, this car is notably quiet and offers excellent visibility. It comes in various models, including Sport, xLine, and M Sport.
The BMW iX1 has a sporty and elegant design along with a luxurious interior that prioritises premium materials and advanced technology. With a focus on dynamic driving performance, a well-balanced chassis, and a suite of cutting-edge safety features, the iX1 appeals to buyers seeking a blend of comfort and sportiness in a compact electric SUV.
Peugeot E-3008
| Peugeot E-3006 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £49,600 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £38,495 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £452 |
| Real-world range | 211-250 miles |
| Battery Size | 50-54kWh |
The Peugeot e-3008 builds on the legacy of its petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) counterparts. All three trims are equipped with the same electric motor and battery. The 54kWh battery delivers an impressive range of up to 250 miles, paired with a motor that produces 156 bhp. While the e-3008 may present challenges in urban environments due to its limited rear visibility and average-sized wing mirrors, it performs well on motorways and during longer journeys. Inside, the e-3008 offers ample storage space and multiple USB-C ports. Although the boot capacity is smaller than that of the petrol and diesel models due to the size of the battery, it still provides a respectable 361 litres of space.
The Peugeot e-3008 can be considered an alternative Tesla Model Y, featuring a stylish hatchback design that combines modern aesthetics with practical functionality. Its engaging driving experience, well-appointed interior, and advanced technology make it an attractive choice for those seeking a compact electric vehicle with flair and everyday usability.
BYD Atto 3
| BYD Atto 3 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £34,000-£39,000 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £24,990 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £292 |
| Real-world range | 261 miles |
| Battery Size | 60kWh |
The BYD Atto 3 is a family-oriented electric SUV from China, competing in the market alongside models like the Peugeot e-2008, MG ZS EV, Kia Niro EV and even the Tesla Model Y. While the exterior design may not stand out significantly, the Atto 3 aims to capture attention with its unique interior and electric performance.
The BYD Atto 3 serves as a strong alternative to the Tesla Model Y, featuring a contemporary design and a spacious, versatile interior that caters to family needs. With impressive range, advanced technology, and a competitive price point, it appeals to budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and well-equipped electric SUV.
Volkswagen ID4
| Volkswagen ID4 | Result |
|---|---|
| Price to buy (new) | £38,720-£54,205 |
| Price to buy (second-hand) | £18,692 |
| Average monthly payment (salary sacrifice) | £431 |
| Real-world range | 349 miles |
| Battery Size | 77kWh |
The ID.4 has been crafted to emulate the design of the ID.3, although it distinguishes itself as an SUV, positioning itself among alternatives such as the Tesla Model Y and Nissan Ariya. Offering a range of engine and battery options, power outputs range from 146hp to 295hp, and the overall range spans from 213 miles to 349 miles. The standard configuration features rear-wheel drive, while top specifications include all-wheel drive.
The Volkswagen ID.4 features a clean, modern design that prioritises practicality and spaciousness. With an intuitive interface, reliable performance, and an emphasis on everyday usability, the ID.4 is ideal for those looking for an accessible and enjoyable electric driving experience.
Switching to an electric car is one of the most significant ways you can make a positive change towards net zero. We want to make it cheaper and easier than any other option. Salary sacrifice makes this possible, allowing employees to save 30-60% on any electric car by reducing their salary in exchange for an electric car as a benefit. This makes electric cars an affordable option for everyone.
All mention of salary sacrifice pricing in this blog is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
