Seres 5 Crushes Tesla Model Y In Comfort But Loses The Battle Where It Counts

If you've been keeping an eye on the electric vehicle market, you'll notice that competition is intensifying rapidly as fresh contenders attempt to dethrone the current leaders. Recently, we had the opportunity to test drive the Seres 5, a high-end all-electric SUV hailing from China. In addition to our primary evaluation, we were curious about how it measures up against its chief rival, the Tesla Model Y. Therefore, we arranged a brief comparative assessment of both vehicles.

The Seren 5 might have been unveiled in Europe In 2024, however, the Chinese edition has existed since 2019. When we got our hands on the Seres, Tesla wasn’t providing test drives of the new Juniper in Greece; they were only offering the pre-facelift Model Y. Nonetheless, this presents an intriguing contrast, despite us needing to consider the modifications brought about by the revised Tesla model.

More: We Contrast the 2026 Tesla Model Y with Its Previous Version

The two electric vehicles have comparable sizes and feature twin electric engines along with all-wheel-drive functionality and sizable batteries. Although the Tesla has an additional 51 kilometers (32 miles) of range according toWLTP standards, the Seres counters this with 193 horsepower more power output. For further specifics, you may refer to the comprehensive specifications listed in the following table.

QUICK FACTS

Model	Seres 5 AWD 80 kWh	2024 Tesla Model Y LR AWD
Powertrain	dual-motor AWD	dual-motor AWD
Output	577 horsepower (430 kilowatts / 585PS) 940 Nm (693 lb-ft)Â	384 horsepower (286 kilowatts / 389 ponstaux) 510 Nm (376 lb-ft)
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)	4.2 seconds*	5.0 seconds*
Top Speed	124 mph (200 km/h)	135 mph (217 km/h)
Battery	80 kWh	75 kWh
Range (WLTP)	482 km (300 miles)*	533 km (331 miles)*
Length	185.4 inches (4,710 mm)	187 inches (4,751 mm)
Width	76 inches (1,930 mm)	75.6 in (1,920 mm)
Height	63.8 inches (1,620 mm)	63.9 in (1,624 mm)
Wheelbase	113.2 inches (2,875 mm)	113.8 in (2,891 mm)
Weight	5,203 lbs (2,360 kg)*	4,528 lbs (2,054 kg)*
Price	€57,500 ($62,200)**	(inventory)

Design: The Seres 5 Appears Even More Compelling

Sure, looks can be subjective, but omitting a comparison would leave it unfinished. design clash. Apart from the external design, we also considered the interior cabin, where the Seres stealthily takes the lead.

Both models merge crossover and coupe cues, aiming for a sweet spot between aerodynamics and practicality. Parked side by side, the Tesla Model Y simply looks less interesting. Blame it partly on the fact that it resembles a bloated Model 3 , although Tesla did address that with the recent mid-lifecycle update. It also does not help that Model Ys have become about as common as pigeons in a park.

As mentioned, the back of the Model Y appears sleeker and better integrated compared to the Seres 5’s. Although the Seres might not impress anyone with its aesthetics, it attracts more attention and seems somewhat classier. It certainly could use some design improvements. From the associated Aito M5 , yet even without those elements, it feels more refreshing compared to Tesla’s overly familiar design.

Inside, many new electric vehicles have followed Tesla's lead by incorporating large touchscreens, reducing physical controls, and emphasizing a "modern" look by eliminating features that some users appreciated in button form. The Seres 5 adheres to this approach but improves upon it through superior materials, well-considered color pairings, and an attractive central console design. Additionally, it includes both a digital instrument panel and a head-up display, making it simpler for motorists transitioning from conventional automobiles.

Even though the standard features provided with Seres vehicles are quite comprehensive, Tesla's technology and user interface seem more contemporary due to their frequent over-the-air software upgrades.

Functionality: The Tesla Model Y Takes the Lead

Although the Seres 5 boasts a more upscale cabin, the Tesla excels in terms of passenger and cargo space. Even with its slanted roof design, the Model Y provides greater rear headroom and legroom, which makes getting in and out simpler.

More: Xiaomi’s Electric SUV Exceeds the Size of the New Tesla Model Y and Offers Greater Range

The cargo space also clearly favors Tesla. officially, the Model Y It can accommodate 29 cubic feet (822 liters) in the rear trunk and an additional 4.1 cubic feet (114 liters) in the front trunk. Although Tesla tends to measure space including the ceiling, which slightly exaggerates these figures, the benefit is still evident.

The Seres 5 boasts a trunk volume rated at 13 cubic feet (367 liters), complemented by an additional 2.4 cubic feet (68 liters) from the front storage area. While the disparity compared to Tesla isn’t enormous, it’s still perceptible. Generally, I discovered that the Model Y better suits familial needs, particularly when considering the extended travel distance and quicker DC charging capabilities. charging capabilities (250 kW as opposed to 100 kW).

Ride Comfort: Driving the Seres 5 Is as Smooth as an Electric Luxury Car

Taking turns driving the two electric vehicles highlighted that the Seres 5 offers the smoothest and most polished ride experience. Its soft suspension effectively minimizes road irregularities better than the Tesla, which can seem somewhat jarring in contrast.

The Seres offers a more refined power delivery – particularly when in EV and Comfort modes – contributing to its pleasant handling. Additionally, the interior of the Seres is quieter, though we did not have the opportunity to conduct extensive tests on long highway drives for both vehicles.

Tesla Handling: More Dynamic and Perceived as Speedier (Though It Isn’t)

Although most electric vehicle purchasers do not prioritize exhilarating performance, we felt compelled to incorporate this category to highlight the distinct personalities of the two models.

On winding roads, you'll enjoy driving the Tesla more than the Seres. Its steering is more precise, and the chassis feel is crisper compared to typical family cars. SUV or crossover The suspension system of the Chinese electric vehicle prioritizes softness and comfort, leading to increased body roll when contrasted with the more equilibrium-oriented design of its established competitor.

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I also observed that even though the Tesla has lower power output and marginally slower performance figures (0-62 mph takes 5.0 seconds versus 4.2 seconds for the Seres), it feels faster when accelerating from rest. This is due to its more immediate response. Additionally, thanks to this enhanced responsiveness along with its more rear-weighted All-Wheel Drive system, the Model Y becomes more willing to take corners aggressively. As such, it emerges as the superior choice for enthusiastic driving sessions.

Pricing: It’s Tough to Outdo Tesla

In Greece In our test, the updated Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD has a starting price of €52,990 ($58,100), which drops to €43,990 ($48,200) after applying incentives. Used versions of the previous model can be purchased for as low as €48,940 ($53,600).

At the same time, the Seres 5 has a price of €57,500 ($63,000) after accounting for incentives. This indicates that the Seres comes with a €13,510 ($14,800) higher cost compared to a new Model Y Juniper equipped similarly. If we look at the older stock units, this difference becomes even more pronounced.

Ruling: Tesla Retains Top Spot... For The Moment

The Seres 5 stands out as a remarkable electric vehicle, particularly since it marks the company's inaugural production model. However, Tesla's top-selling car remains tough competition within its segment. From our analysis, we found that the Seres offers a smoother drive and superior cabin aesthetics compared to its rival from Tesla. Nonetheless, Tesla is more pragmatic, offers crisper handling dynamics, and is considerably less expensive.

In summary, the current Tesla Model Y remains a comprehensive choice for potential electric vehicle purchasers. Nonetheless, the competition pricing The updated Model Y Juniper edition eliminates most of its predecessor's shortcomings, making it an easy choice.

More: Tesla’s Q1 Deliveries Fall Short More Severely Than What Wall Street Predicted

We'll be excited to test more. Competitors from China challenge Tesla Model Y In the coming years, despite appearances, the primary obstacle to electric vehicles' success seems to stem from widespread criticism directed at the company’s leader, Elon Musk. This backlash has notably contributed to a substantial drop in Tesla’s sales within European markets, as potential purchasers shift away from what was previously a leading brand.

Photos: Thanos Pappas courtesy of The News Pulse