The MG IM5 has arrived in the UK with a combination of long range, rapid charging and strong performance that puts it firmly up against the Tesla Model 3. The MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 debate is particularly interesting because both cars offer impressive technology, performance and practicality without requiring buyers to move into a traditional premium brand.
With prices starting around £40,000, the MG IM5 is targeting drivers who want an electric saloon with plenty of equipment and a strong range. The Tesla Model 3 has already established itself as one of the UK’s best-known electric cars.
So, how does the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison look when you put the two cars head-to-head?
From price and power to range, charging, technology and practicality, here’s how the two electric cars compare.
The MG IM5 is a fully electric model from MG’s new IM brand, offering three versions in the UK.
The range starts with the Standard, which uses a 75kWh battery and rear-wheel drive. Above it is the Long Range with a 100kWh battery, while the range-topping Performance adds all-wheel drive and substantially more power.
The Tesla Model 3 has a broader range of versions, including rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, with different combinations of range and performance.
The biggest difference in the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison is the way each manufacturer approaches the market. MG has packed the IM5 with equipment and offers a particularly powerful Performance model, while Tesla focuses heavily on efficiency, software and its established charging network.
Both cars are aimed at drivers looking for a practical electric car that can handle everyday driving as well as longer journeys.
The MG IM5 launched in the UK with three versions:
| Model | Battery | Drive | Power | Range | 0-62 mph | Launch price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IM5 Standard | 75kWh | RWD | 295 PS | 304 miles | 6.8 sec | £39,450 |
| IM5 Long Range | 100kWh | RWD | 407 PS | 441 miles | 4.9 sec | £44,995 |
| IM5 Performance | 100kWh | AWD | 751 PS | 357 miles | 3.2 sec | £48,495 |
The official MG IM5 information confirms the three-model UK line-up, including the 441-mile Long Range and 100kWh battery.
These figures make the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison particularly interesting. The MG offers a choice between affordable entry-level motoring, long-distance range and extreme performance.
The Standard model is the cheapest way into the IM5 range, while the Long Range is aimed at drivers who regularly cover longer distances. The Performance sits at the top of the range and turns the IM5 into a seriously fast electric car.
The Tesla Model 3 remains a very strong competitor in the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 battle.
Its current UK range includes rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, with the exact price and specification depending on the model selected.
Tesla’s current Model 3 range includes:
The Tesla Model 3 therefore covers a wider spread of priorities, from relatively affordable everyday motoring through to high-performance driving.
You can see the latest specifications directly on Tesla’s official Model 3 page.
When comparing the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3, buyers should also remember that Tesla pricing and specifications can change. The figures available when you buy may therefore differ from those available when the cars first launched.
The MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison gets particularly interesting when you look at performance.
If outright power is the priority, the MG IM5 Performance is extremely difficult to ignore.
With 751 PS and all-wheel drive, it can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.2 seconds. It also has a claimed top speed of around 167 mph.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is also seriously quick, with 0-60 mph taking around 2.9 seconds.
That means Tesla has the edge on the headline acceleration figure, but the MG offers an enormous amount of power for its price.
The Standard and Long Range versions of the MG IM5 are more conventional choices, with the Long Range still capable of reaching 62 mph in 4.9 seconds.
For buyers comparing the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 purely on performance, both cars offer considerably more pace than most people will ever need on the road.
Range is one of the biggest reasons to consider the MG IM5, and it’s another area where the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison is close.
The Long Range version can officially travel up to 441 miles on a single charge, making it one of the most impressive figures in its class.
The Standard version has a claimed range of 304 miles, while the Performance model achieves around 357 miles because of its higher-performance powertrain.
The Tesla Model 3 also offers excellent range, with the exact figure depending on the version and wheel configuration.
Some Tesla Model 3 versions can therefore compete closely with the MG IM5 Long Range for outright range.
For buyers who regularly undertake long journeys, both cars offer enough range to make electric motoring much easier to live with.
However, real-world range will vary depending on speed, temperature, weather, driving style and use of heating or air conditioning.
If you’re considering an electric car but aren’t sure whether buying new is the right option, our guide to whether you should buy a used electric car is also worth reading.
Charging is another important part of the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison.
One of the biggest advantages of the MG IM5 is its 800V electrical architecture.
The 100kWh versions can charge from 10% to 80% in around 17 minutes under suitable conditions when using a sufficiently powerful DC charger.
That makes the IM5 Long Range particularly appealing to drivers who regularly use rapid-charging networks.
Charging performance will, of course, depend on the charger, battery temperature and other conditions. Maximum charging speeds aren’t available at every public charging point.
Tesla has the advantage of its established Supercharger network, which has become one of the best-known rapid-charging networks in the UK and Europe.
For some buyers, the availability and convenience of charging infrastructure could therefore be just as important as the car’s maximum charging speed.
In the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison, the MG has impressive charging hardware, while Tesla has the advantage of a mature charging ecosystem.
The MG IM5 takes a technology-heavy approach to its interior, giving the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison another interesting angle.
One of its most noticeable features is the large 26.3-inch display stretching across much of the dashboard, accompanied by a separate 10.5-inch screen.
Higher-specification versions can also offer features including:
The four-wheel steering system also helps give the IM5 a surprisingly tight turning circle, making the large electric saloon easier to manoeuvre in tighter spaces.
The Tesla Model 3 takes a different approach, with a minimalist cabin dominated by its central touchscreen.
Tesla has continued to refine the Model 3’s interior, with a modern design and fewer traditional physical controls than many conventional cars.
Which interior is better will ultimately come down to personal preference. The MG arguably offers more equipment and visual drama, while Tesla takes a simpler and more minimalist approach.
Practicality is another area worth considering when looking at the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3.
The MG IM5 has a 457-litre boot, along with an additional 18-litre front storage compartment.
That gives it useful everyday practicality, although it isn’t trying to compete with an SUV for outright carrying capacity.
The Tesla Model 3 is similarly practical for a saloon, with both front and rear storage areas.
For most buyers, either car should provide enough space for everyday shopping, luggage and commuting.
If you’re considering a used alternative, you can also browse the latest used cars for sale on MotorHype.
Warranty coverage is another consideration in the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison.
MG provides a seven-year or 80,000-mile vehicle warranty for the IM5, while the high-voltage battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles.
The Tesla Model 3 has an eight-year battery and drive-unit warranty, with the mileage limit depending on the version.
Warranty coverage is therefore another area where the two manufacturers take slightly different approaches.
It’s worth checking the exact terms and mileage limits before buying, particularly if you expect to keep the car for a long time or cover high annual mileage.
So, which comes out on top in the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 comparison?
The MG IM5 makes a very strong case for itself.
The Long Range version combines a 100kWh battery with a claimed 441-mile range, while the Performance model delivers 751 PS and 0-62 mph in just 3.2 seconds.
It also brings an impressive amount of technology, rapid 800V charging and a generous equipment list.
The Tesla Model 3 remains a strong competitor thanks to its established reputation, Supercharger network, impressive efficiency and excellent performance.
For outright range and equipment, the MG IM5 is particularly compelling. For buyers who value Tesla’s charging network, software ecosystem and established EV reputation, the Model 3 remains an attractive option.
Ultimately, the MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3 decision will come down to what matters most to you: range, performance, charging convenience, technology or overall ownership experience.
If you’re not set on buying a new EV, there are also plenty of reasons to consider a used electric car before making the jump to a brand-new model.
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