When it comes to premium EVs, the names Tesla and NIO stand out a lot when compared to the competition.
Especially when it comes to the ET5 and the Model 3. That’s why for this purpose we created this comparison between these two models.
In this article, we will compare these two models in many key aspects, including the price, design, powertrain, battery, autopilot, and more. So, if you want to learn more, follow along!
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Specs
Let’s first take a look at the specs of these two models and compare them side by side. It is very useful to learn what numbers these two cars produce.
| Model | NIO ET5 | Tesla Model 3 |
| Variant | Standard | Base |
| Price | $45,565 | $34,500 |
| Battery (kWh) | 75 kWh | 60 kWh |
| Drive | AWD | RWD |
| WLTP Range (km) | 550 km | 513 km |
| Power Output (kW) | 360 kW | 175 kW |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 4 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Plug Types (AC/DC) | Type 2 & CCS2 | Type 2 & CCS2 |
| Max Charge Rate (AC/DC) | 11/140 | 11/170 |
| Cargo Space (liters) | 385 liters | 425 liters |
| Frunk Cargo Space | No | Yes |
| Length (mm) | 4,790 mm | 4,694 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1,960 mm | 1,850 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1,499 mm | 1,443 mm |
| Running Clearance | 150 mm | 140 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,888 mm | 2,875 mm |
| Tow Rating | 750 kg | 750 kg |
| V2L | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 years/120,000km | 4 years/80,000 km |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years/120,000 km | 8 years/120,000 km |
| Loyalty Program | Yes | Yes |
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Price
One of the most important factors when it comes to buying a new vehicle is definitely the price. The price has to be right in order for you to consider a certain model. So, how do these two models perform in this aspect?
Well, these are expensive vehicles. They tend to have a higher price tag compared to your regular entry level EVs.
The NIO ET5 starts at $45,565 in China. While the Tesla Model 3 starts at $34,500 in China.
And as you can see, the ET5 is a lot more expensive compared to the Teal Model 3. This is the case because the ET5 is a more premium model compared to the Tesla Model 3.
For a well-equipped NIO ET5, you will have to spend about $53,270. While for a long range version of the Tesla Model 3 you will have to pay about $41,000.
Overall, the NIO ET5 is in a completely different league compared to the Tesla Model 3 when it comes to pricing.
Also, these prices are for China. So, if you want to import one, you will also pay the import fees. These fees can add up even more in terms of cost.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Design and Interior
The exterior design is important when it comes to choosing your future EV. The design is probably one of the first things that we are attracted to.
What is good about these two models is that they both look stunning, especially in person. But the model that probably stands out is the NIO ET5.
The NIO ET5 is a proper luxury sedan. This model implements a sleek styling that looks phenomenal. The headlight design is NIO’s signature. With two thin DRLs at the top and on the bottom you have the high beams.
The side profile of the NIO ET5 is excellent. This model has flush door handles and the design is focused on maximum aerodynamics and delivering an incredible range.
The Tesla Model 3 implements a similar design to the NIO ET5. This model was recently refreshed, with new headlights and a completely new front fascia that brought the model up to date.
But overall, from a looks perspective, the NIO ET5 is definitely more attractive than the Tesla.
The same story is for the interior of these models. The interior of the NIO is very modern with a lot of technology. The cabin is extremely roomy and headroom and legroom are not a problem at all.
The Tesla Model 3 on the other hand is a bit poor in this aspect. We love the exterior but the interior is too minimalist.
There is nothing going on in this model. You only have a steering wheel and a screen. Nothing else to do. And this is not a very pleasant experience on a day to day basis.
We wish that there were more features and better design of the dashboard. Since not everyone is after the minimalist approach that Tesla implements in their models.
This is why we give our vote to the NIO ET5 without any doubt. This model simply thrives in terms of design and features.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Power and Performance
Power and performance is also vital when it comes to electric cars. Especially when we are talking about these high-end models that tend to cost a good penny to obtain.
Specifically, the ET5 is a model that delivers excellent performance. This model produces up to 480 hp and 700 N-m of torque. All with the help of dual electric motors. So, this means that the ET5 is AWD. Acceleration with the ET5 is only 4 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h.
And we can honestly say that the ET5 is probably one of the best options that money can get right now considering the amount of performance that you get.
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With the Tesla Model 3 rear wheel drive you don’t get much. This model makes only about 220 kW, which is about 295 hp. This model will deliver an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.6 seconds.
If you want to get more power from the Tesla Model 3, you need to get an AWD Long Range version. This model delivers an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Which is pretty similar to the NIO ET5.
But overall, the NIO ET5 is probably the better option out of the two. It has much more power on the base model compared to the base Tesla Model 3.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Battery and Range
When it comes to EVs, battery and range should be one of your top priorities. You just need to find an EV that will meet your requirements when it comes to range.
Range anxiety is a real problem and you definitely don’t want to struggle with this on a day to day basis.
Luckily for you, the NIO ET5 delivers some incredible numbers when it comes to the range. This model has a minimal range of 550 km with a 75 kWh battery pack. Then you have a larger 100 kWh battery that is able to deliver 700 km and the most powerful 150 kWh battery can deliver up to 1,000 km.
And since you are buying such a model, we strongly urge you to go for at least 700 km range in order not to experience any range anxiety at all.
The Tesla Model 3 on the other hand has a standard range of 513 km and a long range version that can push up to 629 km.
And as you can see, the Tesla is another very good performer. Considering the price, you get a lot of range with this model as well.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Autopilot and Other Tech
We live in an era where everything revolves around technology and AI. So, people want as much technology as possible in their EVs. One of the most important features is the Autopilot.
The autopilot is something that Tesla popularized in recent years but they still can’t figure out how to offer a full autopilot.
What many cars these days offer is Level 2 autonomy. This is the case with the Tesla Model 3 and the NIO ET5.
This autonomy is made possible by a feature known as adaptive cruise control. This function gives you autonomy on the highway and helps you drive with minimal intervention.
Behind this feature is the ADAS system. This is the Advanced Driving Assistance System. This system implements many sensors, radars, and cameras that work together with AI and make instant decisions.
Other features that this system offers include blind spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, pedestrian detection, park assists, lane departure alert, lane keep assists, traffic sign recognition, and a lot more.
Overall, it really depends on how much you have to spend in order to activate all of these features in your car.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Size and Body
Vehicle size is essential for those who want to get a practical vehicle that will meet their requirements. Especially if you carry more passengers, this category is a must.
The ET5 is a model that is very large. This model has more room and more size compared to the Tesla Model 3.
Which means that the ET5 has a better practicality. This is mostly notable inside of the cabin where you have plenty of room for the driver and passengers.
The trunk of the NIO ET5 is also very roomy and can accommodate a lot of cargo. Specifically, up to 385 liters.
The Tesla Model 3 on the other hand is a bit narrower but the wheelbase is pretty similar to the one of the NIO ET5. So, there should be equal amounts of legroom and headroom.
An advantage of the Tesla Model 3 over the NIO ET5 is the trunk space. The Tesla Model 3 has plenty of cargo capacity. Specifically up to 425 liters. Which is 40 liters more compared to the NIO ET5.
In addition to this, with the Tesla you have a front frunk where you can store items. While with the NIO ET5, you don’t have such a thing.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Safety
Vehicle safety should be one of your top priorities when it comes to shopping for a new vehicle. You need to get a car that meets your requirements and delivers a good safety score.
As we noted previously, these models come with ADAS. This is a safety system that implements many sensors, cameras, and radars in order to help provide 360 view around the car.
This system has plenty of functions that maximize safety. The most important being the adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and crash detection.
What is worth noting is that both of these models have this system and it really depends on how much you have to spend to activate all of these functions.
When it comes to crash protection, both models offer good scores. These vehicles were crash tested in China and in Europe.
Both models scored clean 5/5 stars overall. So, both of them can be considered as pretty safe and will definitely not be a bad option to purchase.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Warranties
Warranty is another very important thing. You need to have good warranty coverage when it comes to buying something as expensive as these two cars.
These models cost a lot and if something breaks down, like the battery for example, you will be covered with the warranty.
Luckily for you, both models have a really good battery warranty. Which is about 8 years or 160,000 km.
While vehicle warranty is a bit different. With the NIO ET5, you have 3 years or 120,000 km. While with the Model 3, you have 4 years or 80,000 km.
Which for both models is somewhat poor. But this is expected when you are buying one of these high-end models.
NIO ET5 vs Tesla Model 3: Additional Considerations
There are no major considerations that you need to take when it comes to buying one of these two models.
Final Thoughts
Overall, both of these models are really good options. But the NIO ET5 is more expensive compared to the Tesla Model 3.
This is why we think that the Tesla Model 3 is a better deal overall compared to the NIO ET5 in this comparison.
The NIO ET5 on the other hand offers more performance and range on the higher end trims. Especially the 150 kWh battery that delivers up to 1,000 km of range. This is definitely a model that you cannot miss out on if you can afford it.
