MG IM5 vs Tesla Model 3
Two electric Sedans go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
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.
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Price Breakdown
The MG IM5 starts from $55,450 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model 3 opens at $54,900. That makes the Tesla Model 3 the more affordable entry point by $550.
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 $60,995 and $60,390 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge — from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC — estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
75kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 153kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 153kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
How long to charge
57.5kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 170kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 170kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
The MG IM5 features a 26.3-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model 3 gets a 15.4-inch display.
The MG IM5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats and V2L that you will not find on the Tesla Model 3. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the MG IM5 gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Tesla Model 3 offers vegan leather.
Drivetrain
The MG IM5 uses a Electric producing 217kW and 450Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD 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 MG IM5 has the clear power advantage at 217kW vs 208kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 75kWh (MG IM5) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model 3). DC fast charging peaks at 153kW (MG IM5) vs 170kW (Tesla Model 3).
Space & Comfort
The MG IM5 measures 4,931mm long on a 2,950mm wheelbase, 211mm longer than the Tesla Model 3 at 4,720mm (2,875mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG IM5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 457L in the MG IM5 and 682L in the Tesla Model 3, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 225L 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: 7 years (MG IM5) vs 5 years (Tesla Model 3). The MG IM5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG IM5 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG IM5 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model 3 has a clear edge. The MG IM5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-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 IM5 and Tesla Model 3?
The Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest at $54,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG IM5 by $550.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Tesla Model 3 has the most range at 520km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model 3 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 170kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model 3 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
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 IM5 has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG IM5 makes the most power at 217kW.
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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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