Honda Civic vs Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is more fuel-efficient at 130 MPG combined, against 36 MPG for the Honda Civic. At EPA assumptions that is about $1,250 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Honda Civic | Tesla Model 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 898 | 1,734 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Forward collision avoidance |
| Crashes and fires | 42 and 4 | 207 and 7 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 30,000 miles | 17,000 miles |
| Recalls | 6 | 19 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 36 MPG | 130 MPG |
| City and highway | 32 and 42 | 136 and 123 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $1,850 | $600 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 898 complaints for the Honda Civic and 1,734 for the Tesla Model 3. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Honda Civic, 5 stars for the Tesla Model 3.
Safety recalls on file: 6 for the Honda Civic, 19 for the Tesla Model 3.