Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y: Which is the Smartest Lease Option?

Electric Vehicles 

The first electric vehicle, invented by Robert Anderson, was little more than a cart packed with crude oil battery cells, buzzing around the Scottish countryside and bewildering the tartan-clad locals with its lack of a horse, or horsepower for that matter.

Fast-forward almost 200 years, and the modern EV market would blow the bowler hat and moustache off Anderson. Lessees now have a huge range of choices, and we’re going to pit two of the electric world’s heaviest hitters against each other: the Tesla Model 3 vs the Tesla Model Y.

Stick with us to find out which one you should lease, or explore our best Tesla lease deals

Should You Lease the Tesla Model 3 or Model Y?

Deciding between the Tesla Model 3 or Model Y comes down to personal taste, and will depend on what you’re looking for in relation to design, driving performance and technology. If you’re looking for a sportier, more comfortable ride, the Model 3 might be best suited to you, whereas individuals that enjoy having a greater presence on the road will prefer the Model Y.

Comparing the Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y

Design

Tesla cars have always sported a sleek, aerodynamically focused design, and with both models being treated to recent facelifts, this has been taken a step further. Both the new Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3 have had some of the now slightly dated and dolphin-esque features carved away, in favour of much smoother front ends and sharper, more striking rears.

As the smaller of the two, the Model 3 sports a more compact, sportier appearance, befitting of its punchier performance. The bulkier Model Y enjoys greater road presence, with a tidy yet muscular stance, especially for an SUV of this size.

Driving Performance

For those of you with shorter attention spans, this particular comparison can be boiled down to one statement: if you want performance, lease a Tesla Model 3, if you want practicality, lease a Tesla Model Y.

The comparisons are a little more nuanced than this in truth, as both vehicles have touches of each, but as we said, we’re trying to ensure everybody can choose the right deal for themselves.

When you break it down to cold hard numbers, the base model Tesla Model 3 will reach 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, and the Performance variant will drag you and your snapped neck there in 2.9. The nearly two-ton Model Y, however, can hit 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, an impressive feat for such a heavy platform. The Model Y Performance cuts this down to 3.5 seconds, meaning you can give supercars a run for their money in your family SUV.

But what if you don’t have a need for speed? If comfort is what you’re looking for, we’d recommend the Tesla Model 3. Many reviewers have cited a smoother experience in the saloon, with its low centre of gravity and smaller wheels making it simultaneously more agile and comfortable.

Technology

Both Model 3 and Tesla Model Y lease deals will open the door to a world of onboard tech that puts many other EVs to shame. This is also arguably the point of least difference between the two models.

Both the Model 3 and the Model Y feature large central touchscreens which the driver can use to control most of the car’s functions, from climate control to gear selection. The result is very clean, tidy interiors across the range.

Each model is equipped with an array of cameras for manoeuvring and security, as well as smartphone compatibility, wireless phone charging, a cinema mode to keep you entertained while charging, a passenger entertainment screen, remote control through the Tesla app and of course, Tesla’s famous Autopilot technology.

Charging And Range

Heavy on the mind of anyone looking to lease a Tesla Model Y or Model 3 will be range and charging speed. This is another area where the Model 3 shines. The sleek, aerodynamically optimised saloon boasts a maximum range of 436 miles and can gain up to 175 miles in just 15 minutes of charge.

Its larger counterpart, however, has traded range for practicality. The Tesla Model Y has a slightly shorter range of 353 miles but can still absorb enough juice for up to 165 miles with 15 minutes on charge.

Regardless of which model you choose, charging a Tesla is getting easier and faster all the time. By the end of 2025, it’s predicted that there will be as many as 2,200 Tesla Supercharger stations around the UK, meaning you can top up quickly wherever you go.

Tesla Model 3 Vs Model Y: Which One Is Right for You

So, the million-dollar question: Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y, which is better? The rather frustrating truth is: it depends.

The Tesla Model 3 is faster, has more range and is reported to have a better ride. The Tesla Model Y, however, is larger and boasts more storage space, a roomier cabin and an elevated seating position.

If you prefer performance to practicality, then lease a Tesla Model 3, but if you need the extra space for luggage or family, then take a look at some Tesla Model Y lease deals.

Explore Our Latest Lease Deals for The Model Y & Model 3 Today!

Whichever model you choose, the friendly folks here at Gateway2Lease are on hand to help you find the best deal. We offer a choice of Model 3 and Tesla Model Y lease options, meaning you can enjoy the latest the EV market has to offer at a price that won’t make your jaw drop.

We’re a highly-rated, family-run leasing provider, helping customers just like you find electrifying (sorry) deals since 2008.

Browse our Tesla lease offers here, or give us a call on 01299 407 360 to learn more.

---

View our latest blog posts