CT4 vs Model 3
The CT4 and the Model 3 compete for the same spot on your shortlist, with Cadillac and Tesla each making its case. Lay the spec sheets side by side and you’ll see more overlap than contrast.
At a glance
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Price CT4 wins
Design & Size
Expect the same physical presence from both; their dimensions are very close.
Dimensions
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.2 in | 185.8 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 72.8 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 56.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 109.3 in | 113.2 in |
Engine & Performance
The engine & performance data here comes as names and types, not scores. Check the table to see what each one uses.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Both the CT4 and the Model 3 cover space & practicality equally well on paper. For space & practicality, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The CT4 and the Model 3 match each other closely in this area. Don’t let off-road & towing decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the spec sheet lists components and formats rather than figures we can rank. The table shows what the CT4 and the Model 3 each bring.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 237 hp | N/A (not specified) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | Single-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | RWD (AWD available) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 26 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 22 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 32 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 321 mi Longest electric range |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 10.7 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 15.4 in Biggest touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | N/A (not specified) | Not available (Tesla software; no Apple CarPlay / Android Auto) |
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.2 in | 185.8 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 72.8 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 56.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 109.3 in | 113.2 in |
Price
| Spec | CT4 | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $34,995 (winner) | $36,990 |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Price & Value
Only $1,995 separated these two at launch, in favor of the CT4. The Model 3 costs $1,995 more but doesn’t win everywhere, so the value depends on which strengths you need.
Prices shown are US launch prices as of October 2025. Retail prices change often, so it’s worth checking current offers.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the CT4 if…
- you want more value for your money ($1,995 less at launch)
- you already use other Cadillac products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the CT4 or the Model 3?
It depends on your priorities: the CT4 is stronger on price, while the Model 3 leads on the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
Is the CT4 bigger than the Model 3?
Size is essentially a tie. The official dimensions of the CT4 and the Model 3 differ only marginally.
Which costs less, the CT4 or the Model 3?
The Model 3 launched at $1,995 more than the CT4, based on prices as of October 2025.
Executive Summary
If it were just about the brand, you wouldn’t be here. So let’s talk about the CT4 and the Model 3 on their merits.
I’d match them like this: price to the CT4, the things a spec sheet can’t capture to the Model 3.
My pick: the CT4 if price is a daily concern, otherwise the Model 3 for its the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.