Can ANYTHING beat the new Tesla Model Y?

This review compares three premium family electric SUVs: the BMW iX3, Tesla Model Y, and Audi Q6. The comparison includes performance, braking, range, styling, interior quality, rear passenger space, practicality, and price. In a drag race, the BMW iX3 narrowly beat the Tesla Model Y, with both cars completing the quarter-mile in 12.8 seconds. The Audi Q6 was significantly slower, taking 14.8 seconds. A rolling race from 30 mph saw the Tesla initially pull away fastest, followed by the BMW, with the Audi trailing. The BMW eventually overtook the Tesla, though both cars hit speed limiters. The Audi was confirmed to be down on power compared to the other two. For braking from 100 mph, the BMW iX3 stopped in the shortest distance, demonstrating superior braking performance. Regarding range, the official figures were presented alongside real-world ranges calculated from average energy consumption. The BMW iX3 offered the longest real-world range, though the differences between the three cars were not substantial. Styling was assessed subjectively. The BMW iX3 was described as an "interesting looking thing" with a "piggy" front due to its kidney grilles, and a lack of form down the sides. The rear lights were liked, but the overall design was deemed "a bit bland." The Tesla Model Y's rear end was considered more interesting, with a successful facelift improving its appearance. While the side profile was seen as "egg-shaped" and designed for aerodynamics, it looked good compared to the BMW. The front headlamp bar was a positive addition. The Audi Q6's front was considered to have "a little bit too much going on," but its side profile was praised as "really cool" and looking the most expensive. The rear was also deemed good, making it a close call between the Tesla and Audi for aesthetics, with the Audi ultimately appearing slightly more expensive. Inside, the Audi Q6's interior was a mixed bag. Quality was acceptable, but the large screen with a bezel was disliked, and its tech was described as clunky and confusing. The digital driver's display was also found to be dark and difficult to use. The seats were liked, and practicality was good. The Tesla Model Y's interior was preferred for its simpler, cleaner design. The screen was seen as better, sharper, more responsive, and more functional, despite the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Interior quality was considered better than the Audi, and storage was abundant. Annoyances included operating mirrors via menus and steering wheel controls, and the placement of the speedometer and drive select slider on the screen. The BMW iX3 had the most "quirky" interior, dominated by a panoramic display, some of which was considered pointless. The speedo placement was praised, and the head-up display was excellent. The infotainment system looked cool but was less user-friendly than the Tesla's. Touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons were not easy to use, and seat controls on the doors were a dislike. Storage was good, and quality was nice, though the light interior was an optional extra that significantly improved its appearance. Rear passenger space saw the BMW iX3 offering good knee room, headroom, and foot space. The Tesla Model Y had slightly less knee room but allowed occupants to "stretch out" and offered better headroom, along with a standard glass roof. The Audi Q6, particularly the Sportback variant, was the worst in all areas, with the least foot space, knee room, and headroom. When assessing the ability to carry three people in the back, the Tesla was the best, followed by the BMW, with the Audi being the least comfortable. Boot capacity was measured by fitting suitcases. The Tesla and Audi managed to fit nine suitcases, drawing in this category. However, the Tesla had a slightly larger front boot space (frunk), giving it a slight edge overall for carrying capacity when passengers are present. In terms of price, the entry-level prices were presented, with significant savings available on the Audi through CarWow. After discounts, the BMW and Audi were priced around £59,000, while the Tesla was £52,000. Leasing deals also showed the Tesla as the best value for money. On the motorway, the Audi Q6 was found to be the most relaxing, with the least wind and road noise. The BMW iX3 was the second most relaxing, slightly quieter than the Tesla, which suffered from more wind noise. For handling on country roads, the Tesla was rated best for steering and handling. The Audi was surprisingly fun due to being "looser," and was considered the most fun in that specific context. However, for overall fun and for most people most of the time, the Tesla was preferred. The BMW iX3 came last, feeling heavy and less inclined to corner enthusiastically. The final verdict placed the Tesla Model Y as the superior all-rounder and best value for money. The BMW iX3 was a good second, and the Audi Q6, while decent, was outclassed by the other two.