Tesla’s Model 3 has been named the best car to own in the UK, topping a major driver satisfaction survey despite ongoing controversy surrounding the brand’s CEO Elon Musk.
The electric saloon came out on top in the Auto Express Driver Power 2026 survey, which is based on feedback from more than 100,000 UK motorists and is regarded as the country’s largest car ownership poll.
Tesla Model X. Artistic Operations, Shutterstock
Drivers ranked vehicles across categories including reliability, safety, driving experience, comfort, and value for money. The Model 3 achieved the highest overall satisfaction score, placing ahead of competitors from BMW, Vauxhall, Ford and Peugeot.
The Tesla Model 3 scored 88.6%, securing first place after also topping key categories such as engine and gearbox performance, safety features, and build quality.
Tesla. Photo Mpohodzhay, Shutterstock
Despite Tesla’s polarising public image linked to CEO Elon Musk, the results suggest strong owner satisfaction among those already driving the brand’s vehicles.
One industry observer noted that the survey reflects long-term ownership experience rather than wider brand sentiment, which has at times been affected by political and cultural debate surrounding Musk.
The Model 3, which is priced between approximately €44,450 and €70,190, was followed closely by the BMW 2 Series (88.2%) and the Vauxhall Grandland (87.8%).
Other strong performers included the Ford Kuga, Vauxhall Frontera, and a number of compact SUVs from Peugeot and Hyundai, highlighting continued demand for practical mid-range family vehicles.
Tesla EV electric vehicle Service Center. Tesla models include Cybertruck, Model 3, Model Y, Model X and Model S. Photo, Jonathan Weiss, Shutterstock
While Tesla continues to perform strongly in owner satisfaction surveys, the wider company has often experienced volatility linked to Musk’s public profile.
Tesla’s share price has previously fluctuated sharply during periods of controversy involving the billionaire, including political disputes with the President of the United States Donald Trump or social media activity such as the acquisition of Twitter for $44 billion.
Elon Musk wearing a 'Make America Great Again' cap. Joshua Sukoff, Shutterstock
At various points, investor concern has centred on whether Musk’s external engagements distract from Tesla’s core automotive operations.
Incidents that have previously coincided with sharp market reactions include public disputes involving political figures, major corporate decisions such as the Twitter acquisition, and broader concerns about leadership focus and brand perception.
Analysts have repeatedly noted that Tesla’s valuation can be sensitive to sentiment shifts surrounding Musk’s behaviour and public statements.
