

This is going to be a slightly unusual comparison, but it isn't my fault.

As I've noted before, Tesla has a segmentation problem. Here at Business Insider, when we want to match up compact crossover SUVs, we can find two similar vehicles from different brands. But when it comes to all-electric cars, it's a different story.

The Tesla Model 3, for example, could take on the Chevy Bolt — and I have compared the vehicles. But the Bolt is more of a mass-market long-range EV, while the Model 3's only arrived in a sub-$40,000 form earlier this year (the cheapest version you can now order is the $39,000 standard-range-plus trim, with rear-wheel-drive). So you have to point out that the available Model 3 leans toward being a premium car.

A larger issue is that because Tesla is selling only three vehicles and has to tweak them in various ways — amenities, self-driving system, total range — to serve buyers at different economic levels, it's challenging to manage good direct comparisons with anybody else's cars.

Making matters even trickier is the arrival of a bunch of EVs from luxury automakers over the next few years: the Porsche Taycan, the Audi E-Tron, the Mercedes EQC, and so on. Everybody is kind of doing their own thing.

The Jaguar I-PACE, which we sampled last year, is a case in point. The Tesla vehicle it should match up against is the forthcoming Model Y crossover, but that isn't yet being produced. Still, the I-PACE is on sale, so if you're shopping electric, chances are you'll give it a look.

So here's the idea: I'll compare the Jag with the Model 3, which is cheaper, and the Model X, which is pricier. I know which vehicle I like best, but I'll try to set it up so you can make the best choice for your needs.