by If you have been following the electric vehicle market even half as much lately, you know that competition is heating up rapidly, and new challengers are trying to take the crown from established players. Recently, we spent time behind the wheel of the Seres 5, a fully electric SUV from China with premium ambitions. However, besides the main review, we wanted to compare it to its biggest competitor, the Tesla Model Y, so we organized a quick comparison between them.
The Seres 5 may have been introduced in 2024, but the Chinese version has existed since 2019. Unfortunately, at the time we had the Seres in our hands, Tesla was not offering test drives of the new Juniper in Greece, only the previous version of the Model Y. Nevertheless, this is an interesting comparison, even if we must consider the changes made by the updated Tesla.
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Design: Seres 5 Looks More Interesting
Looks are subjective, but the comparison would be incomplete without a face-off. Beyond the exterior style, we also considered the cabin, where the Seres quietly takes the lead.
Both models combine crossover and coupe cues, aiming for a golden mean between aerodynamics and practicality. Side by side, the Tesla Model Y simply looks less interesting. This is partly because it resembles an overinflated version, although Tesla corrected this in the latest mid-lifecycle update. It doesn’t help that Model Ys have become about as common as pigeons in the park.
That said, the rear end of the Model Y still looks cleaner and more cohesive than that of the Seres 5. Although the Seres doesn’t win on beauty, it attracts more attention and looks a bit more premium. It certainly could borrow a few style updates, but even without them, it looks fresher than the familiar Tesla shape.
Ride Comfort: Seres 5 Feels Like an Electric Grand Tourer
Driving both EVs back-to-back proved that the Seres 5 has the most comfortable and refined handling. Its plush suspension absorbs road imperfections better than the Tesla, which can feel somewhat stiff compared to the Seres.
The Seres also has smoother power delivery – especially in EV and Comfort modes – finishing off its friendly road behavior. Furthermore, the Seres’ cabin is slightly quieter, although we didn’t have the opportunity to test both cars during long highway trips.
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Driving Dynamics: Tesla is Sportier and Faster (Even If It’s Not)
Although most EV buyers aren’t interested in sporty driving characteristics, we had to include this segment, allowing the differences in the character of both models to shine.
On winding roads, you’ll get more enjoyment from the Tesla than from the Seres. Its steering is more direct, and the chassis setup feels very precise compared to the more balanced, family-car-oriented Tesla.
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Another thing I noticed – despite having less power and being slightly slower on paper (0-62 mph in 5 seconds compared to 4.2 seconds), the Tesla feels faster, providing brisk acceleration from the moment you start. Thanks to this and its more rear-biased all-wheel-drive mode, the Tesla Model Y is more geared towards quick use, making it the better choice for emotional driving.
Pricing: It’s Hard to Beat Tesla
In the country where we tested these cars, the updated Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD starts from €52,990 ($58,100) or €43,990 ($48,200) including compensation. Available models of the older version can be purchased even cheaper, starting from €48,940 ($53,600).
Meanwhile, the Seres 5 costs €57,500 ($63,000), including subsidies. This means the Seres demands a premium of €13,510 ($14,800) over the new Model Y Juniper with similar specifications. The difference is even wider if you consider the older available models.
Verdict: Tesla Holds Its Crown… For Now
The Seres 5 is an impressive EV, especially when you consider it’s the brand’s first mass-produced car, but the Tesla bestseller is truly hard to beat in its own segment. Our comparison showed that the Seres has more comfortable handling and a better interior design, but the Tesla is more practical, has sharper dynamic characteristics, and is significantly more affordable.
Overall, the previous Tesla Model Y still seems like a well-balanced option for potential EV buyers. However, the competitiveness of the updated Model Y Juniper makes it the most rational choice, having fixed many of the shortcomings of its
