Best Tesla alternatives to buy
Fancy a change? Here are the best cars similar to a Tesla
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Buying a Tesla is one of the smartest ways into electric vehicle (EV) ownership – there’s a reason it sold more than 1.6 million cars in 2025 alone. But they're not the only great EVs out there.
We’ve compiled a list of eight of our favourite alternatives to the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y in the UK.
Our top eight cars similar to a Tesla
Hyundai IONIQ 5
Nissan LEAF
BYD SEALION 7
Polestar 2
BMW i4
BYD SEAL
MG4
Škoda Enyaq
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Cars like a Tesla
Hyundai IONIQ 5
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Hyundai is one of the few car brands that grabbed electric cars by the horns and went all guns blazing right from the get-go, and the IONIQ 5 is a direct result of that.
It looks more like a concept car you’d see at a motor show as opposed to something you can actually drive on the road, thanks to its unique styling and retro-looking LED lights.
It has up to 84kWh of battery capacity, capable of up to 354 miles on a single charge.
Plus, it’s no slouch. Standard versions have up to 325hp (in AWD variants), and if you go for the full-fat IONIQ 5 N, there’s 650hp available at your right foot.
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Nissan LEAF
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The Nissan LEAF first rolled onto the scene in 2009, making it one of the longest-standing electric cars in the world.
Over the years, it’s had minor styling tweaks and changes inside to keep it up to date with the latest and greatest competition.
There are a number of different variants and generations on the market, but most will comfortably do over 200 miles on a charge, with newer ones being capable of driving 386 miles between stops.
Unlike the IONIQ 5 N, Nissan doesn’t sell a sporty variant of the LEAF, but at up to 215hp, it’s not bad.
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BYD SEALION 7
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One of the best electric cars you can buy is the BYD SEALION 7 – there’s a reason it won our Best Electric Car of the Year award in 2025.
BYD may be a relatively new entrant to the UK (launching in 2023), but it’s gone on to totally dominate the market.
The SEALION 7 is its family SUV with up to 530hp (in top-spec AWD trims) and 312 miles of range. Not to mention 230kW fast charging to top up the battery from 10-80% in less than 30 minutes.
It’s also packed full of the latest tech, from wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto to ventilated seats and a massive infotainment screen.
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Polestar 2
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The Polestar 2 came out in 2017 in a joint venture between Volvo and Geely, signalling a new era for what used to be exclusively Volvo’s performance arm.
Tesla’s Model 3 is the 2’s main rival, but it stands up to it very well. It has a claimed range of over 400 miles from its 82kWh battery (in Long range models), but even standard cars get more than 300 miles on a charge.
What sets this Polestar apart is its driveability, leaning on its earlier roots as a tuning company.
This means you can add extras like forged alloy wheels, Brembo brakes and Öhlins dampers for a sportier ride.
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BMW i4
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‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ is a bold claim, but one that BMW has stuck with for more than 50 years.
The BMW i4 stays true to this tagline, with plenty of poke (up to 601hp) and a brilliant chassis that helps it keep up with rivalling combustion cars.
Range stands at up to 371 miles, and the interior is all familiar BMW switchgear and screens, making it a logical step-up for an existing BMW driver.
Even if you’re stepping into one for the first time, it feels very special and high-quality.
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BYD SEAL
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The BYD SEAL’s biggest rival is by far and away the Tesla Model 3, but despite being younger, it’s gained significant traction in the UK as a great all-round electric saloon.
Aside from its ocean-inspired looks, it has up to 354 miles of range from its 82.5kWh battery and a 0-62mph time of just 3.8 seconds – that’s supercar territory.
But inside is where it really matters, with a 15.6-inch screen, helpful driver assistances and a massively powerful 50W wireless phone charger.
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MG4
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Small but mighty is a good way to describe the MG4 – the brand’s first fully electric hatchback that doesn't disappoint.
It has up to 338 miles of range and around 200hp in the standard versions. If you want a bit more poke to rival a Tesla, opt for the XPOWER, which has 435hp and a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds.
But no matter which one you opt for, you’re getting a solid range, plenty of performance and the ideal city companion that isn’t afraid of a longer motorway journey.
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Škoda Enyaq
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Škoda is doing some really interesting things with its electric cars, silently making some of the best in the game.
The Enyaq is one of those cars. It’s spacious, efficient, classy and well-priced (new but especially when used).
It has up to 359 miles of range, a big 585-litre boot and all the tech you’d ever need.
Our top picks for Tesla alternatives
What’s the cheapest Tesla alternative?
If you’re looking for the maximum bang for your buck, a new BYD DOLPHIN SURF is the car for you. It still gets a 200-mile range, yet it’s very affordable.
Alternatively, a used MG4 will give you great value for money.
Which has the best performance?
The beauty of electric cars is that they’ve almost always got strong levels of performance – even the more affordable models.
But if it’s Tesla-rivalling speed you’re after, you can’t go wrong with a new BYD SEAL or a used BMW i4.
Which car similar to a Tesla has the best tech?
There’s no denying Tesla has some of the cleverest infotainment systems of any car on the road today, but brands such as BYD are quickly approaching, not to mention more established brands like Hyundai and Volkswagen.
If it’s tech you’re after, though, consider a new BYD SEALION 7 with its 15.6-inch infotainment screen.
What Tesla alternative is the most efficient?
If you want the maximum efficiency, the BMW i4 (in eDrive35 or 40 trim) will do the trick.
It gets a claimed 4.0mi/kWh, which makes it nearly as efficient as a Tesla Model 3 at 4.4mi/kWh.
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Buy a used electric car on cinch
Now that you’ve found a great Tesla alternative, you can search our range of used electric cars for sale, fitting all budgets and needs.