BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes C-Class vs Audi A4 vs Tesla Model 3

If you’re in the market for a premium saloon car, you’ll probably be considering either the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4 or the Tesla Model 3.

But which of these cars will suit your needs? Well this head-to-head will give you a rundown of their pros and cons, as well as Mats’ pick of the best trim level to go for. Once you’ve decided on the ideal model for you, follow the links to compare all the latest offers from Carwow’s trusted dealers.

BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series is the car to go for if fun is an important factor. BMW has been making some great driving cars for years, and the latest 3 Series is one of the best saloons on the market for flinging down a country road. This doesn’t come at the expense of comfort though, because it’s really relaxing to drive.

It’s a handsome thing as well, especially in M Sport trim with an aggressive-looking bodykit and sporty alloy wheels. Going for the M Sport also gets you some interior upgrades such as a chunky steering wheel and sports seats.

There are plenty of engines to choose from including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options. The best all-rounder though is the 320i. This 2.0-litre petrol is quick, quiet and fuel efficient.

Mercedes C-Class

If it’s a more classy aesthetic you want, the Mercedes C-Class may be right down your street. Go for the AMG-Line version and you get some fancy alloy wheels, as well as a handful of styling upgrades to up the bling factor.

It’s the interior which impresses most though, with the C-Class offering the most stylish cabin of these four cars by far. It’s packed with tech as well, and it’s a very comfortable car to cover long distances in.

You’re spoilt for choice in terms of engines, but the C200 petrol is the pick of the range. It’s a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol which, while it may not sound too impressive on paper, offers decent performance and good economy.

Audi A4

The Audi A4 is a car you may buy with your head rather than your heart because it’s an excellent all rounder, if not as exciting as the Mercedes or the BMW. It’s a smart-looking saloon, especially in S Line trim with some sporty trinkets, but the design is starting to look its age.

That said, the interior still looks thoroughly modern and it’s packed with tech. It may not look as swanky as the Mercedes’ cabin, but it feels a lot more solid and high-quality than that car. S Line cars also get sports seats and a nice flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The 2.0-litre petrol engine in the 40 TFSI model will suit most people’s needs. It has 204hp, feels brisk enough and will be reasonably good on fuel. It’s also only around £1,600 more than the 150hp model so it’s a no-brainer really.

Tesla Model 3

These swanky German cars are all well and good, but what if you want an all-electric saloon with cutting-edge tech? Enter the Tesla Model 3. Some may argue that it looks a bit plain compared to the other three cars here, but a recent facelift has done a good job of livening it up a bit.

The interior of the model 3 is like nothing else out there thanks to a complete lack of buttons. You get a massive touchscreen and that’s about your lot. Despite this, it’s got all the latest tech on board and it’s pretty reasonably-priced for what you get.

There are a few motor and battery combinations to choose from, but we’d recommend the Long Range model. This car gets dual electric motors with 351hp, so it feels properly rapid, and you’ll get up to 391 miles on a charge.

Change cars with Carwow

Hopefully you’ve now got a better idea of which posh saloon is best for you, so don’t forget to follow the links below each car and compare offers from our trusted dealers.

Carwow is your one-stop shop for changing cars. Not only can you save money on a new car, you can also sell your current car for a great price through the same network of trusted dealers. It’s as easy as uploading a few photos, answering some questions and watching the offers roll in.

Once you’ve accepted an offer for your old car, the dealer will come and pick it up at a time and place to suit you, and the money will be transferred straight into your account. It really is that easy. Tap the button below to get started today.