Tesla Model 3 vs MG IM5
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.
Data checked: specs 3 Oct 2026, price 1 Oct 2026
Tesla Model 3: we're still completing wheelbase, kerb weight, power, torque and transmission, plus 4 others.
MG IM5: we're still completing kerb weight, 0-100km/h, turning circle, braked towing and energy consumption.
Blank cells below mean we don't have that figure, not that the car scores badly on it. We leave them empty rather than estimate, so any row where one car is blank isn't a like-for-like comparison yet.
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Price Breakdown
The Tesla Model 3 starts from $45,900 before on-road costs, while the MG IM5 opens at $55,450. That makes the Tesla Model 3 the more affordable entry point by $9,550.
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 $50,490 and $60,995 respectively.
Both models currently qualify for the electric-vehicle Fringe Benefits Tax exemption (battery-electric and under the $91,661 threshold; battery-electric and under the $91,661 threshold), a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Recalls on our record
Tesla Model 3
- REC-006300 · published 3 Mar 2025Due to a software issue, the Electronic Power Assist Steering system (EPAS) may not operate as intended.Year range on the notice: 2022 - 2023
- REC-006042 · published 1 Aug 2024Due to manufacturing defect, the bonnet latch assembly may not detect when it is opened by the driver and therefore fail to warn the driver of "open bonnet".Year range on the notice: 2020 - 2024
- REC-005879 · published 30 Jan 2024The rear centre seat position of the Model 3 does not have an accessible top-restraint anchorage point as required by Australian Design Rule 34/03.Year range on the notice: 2023
- 8 more on the model page.
MG IM5
None open on our record
A recall covers the builds its notice lists, not every car of a model. Check your VIN at vehiclerecalls.gov.au.
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.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model 3 features a 16-inch touchscreen, while the MG IM5 gets a 26.3-inch display.
The MG IM5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and ventilated seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Tesla Model 3 gets vegan leather with textile inserts upholstery while the MG IM5 offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
Detailed powertrain specifications are not yet available for both models.
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model 3 measures 4,720mm long, 211mm shorter than the MG IM5 at 4,931mm (2,950mm wheelbase).
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Tesla Model 3) vs 7 years (MG IM5). The MG IM5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG IM5 if: You value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
MG IM5: Top CarSorted Score, 69 vs 55, but the Tesla Model 3 is $9,550 cheaper
The MG IM5 comes out ahead on the CarSorted Score (69 vs 55), taking 1 of 4 key spec rows below. The deciding gaps: technology (MG IM5 ahead by 56), safety (MG IM5 ahead by 34), energy efficiency (Tesla Model 3 ahead by 12). 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.
One enquiry, local dealers' best price on each. Free for you to use. If you buy, the dealer may pay us a commission.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Tesla Model 3 and MG IM5?
The Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest at $45,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG IM5 by $9,550.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Tesla Model 3 has the most range at 572km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model 3 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 175kW.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Tesla Model 3 and MG IM5 carry a published ANCAP rating yet, so there is no crash result to compare. Check back as they are tested.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG IM5 has the longest warranty at 7 years / No data.
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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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