MG 5 vs Tesla Model 3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The MG 5 starts from $32,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model 3 opens at $54,900. That makes the MG 5 the more affordable entry point by $21,910.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $36,289 and $60,390 respectively.
The Tesla Model 3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The MG 5, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
The Tesla Model 3 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the MG 5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Tesla Model 3 packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the MG 5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the MG 5 and 8 in the Tesla Model 3. The MG 5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Tesla Model 3 misses.
Feature Showdown
The MG 5 features a 10-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model 3 gets a 15.4-inch display.
The MG 5 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Tesla Model 3. The Tesla Model 3 counters with ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the MG 5 gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Tesla Model 3 offers vegan leather. Climate control is 1-zone in the MG 5 and 2-zone in the Tesla Model 3.
Drivetrain
The MG 5 uses a 1.5L Turbo Petrol producing 119kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The Tesla Model 3 responds with a Electric Motor making 208kW and 340Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
The Tesla Model 3 has the clear power advantage at 208kW vs 119kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG 5 measures 4,675mm long on a 2,680mm wheelbase, 45mm shorter than the Tesla Model 3 at 4,720mm (2,875mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model 3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 401L in the MG 5 and 682L in the Tesla Model 3, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 281L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG 5) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model 3). The MG 5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG 5 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model 3 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model 3 has a clear edge. The MG 5 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, MG 5 and Tesla Model 3?
The MG 5 is the cheapest at $32,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model 3 by $21,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG 5 uses the least fuel at 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The Tesla Model 3 has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which has the most boot space?
The Tesla Model 3 has the largest boot at 682L.
Which can tow the most?
The Tesla Model 3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG 5 has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Tesla Model 3 makes the most power at 208kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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