autoevolution
 

Tesla Model 3 Faces BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class PHEVs in Comparison Test

Carwow's Mat Watson released a comparison test that pits a Tesla Model 3 against two plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While the response to this is a no-brainer for many, the video should make any potential customer take a better look at the options at hand.
Tesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison test 7 photos
Photo: Screenshot from YouTube video by carwow
Tesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison testTesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison testTesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison testTesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison testTesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison testTesla Model 3 faces BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e in comparison test
The most interesting part of this comparison is the price of the vehicles that are being put to the test. For GBP 41,000 (ca. $55,144), you could drive off with any of the trio from their respective showroom in the United Kingdom. The question is if you should think about getting a diesel plug-in hybrid, a gasoline-powered plug-in hybrid, or a full-electric mid-sized sedan.

The Tesla Model 3 that is compared with the Mercedes-Benz C300e and the BMW 330e is a Standard Range Plus model, which features a single motor and rear-wheel drive. The American sedan offers 283 horsepower.

Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid version of the BMW 3 Series comes with a total combined output of 292 horsepower, and the Mercedes-Benz C300e leads the pack with a combined output of 312 horsepower. It is impressive how evenly matched these vehicles are, from this point of view and when the price is concerned, right?

Since these drive technologies are comparable, but definitely not the same, the most powerful car in the comparison is not the quickest off the line. And the least powerful does not provide the highest possible range. Naturally, design is a matter of preference, so we will not comment on it at all.

When it comes to interior design, Tesla's Model 3 does have a different strategy, which may not be the best, but it is the one with the least buttons if that is what you are after. The Mercedes C-Class and its equivalent from BMW do keep a fair share of buttons and traditional switchgear onboard, so at least there is something for everyone to choose from today.

Before you go ahead and view the comparison test, I must point out that what cannot be seen in the video is the level of perceived quality. The Tesla Model 3 is not exactly in line with the Mercedes C-Class or the BMW 3 Series. I am referring to materials and finishes here, which are not as carefully chosen in the American compact sedan.

Others would rather have all the technology in the Model 3 and ditch the BMW 3 Series or C-Class altogether, but, that is the best part about the automotive market today — you have a choice.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Sebastian Toma
Sebastian Toma profile photo

Sebastian's love for cars began at a young age. Little did he know that a career would emerge from this passion (and that it would not, sadly, involve being a professional racecar driver). In over fourteen years, he got behind the wheel of several hundred vehicles and in the offices of the most important car publications in his homeland.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories