The EVs are going head to head

There are two new EVs in town now that Kia has introduced the EV6 and Hyundai introduced the IONIQ 5 in 2022. These two new vehicles join a segment that was largely dominated by the Tesla Model 3 since its release in 2017. How do these two new EVs match up against the well-established Tesla model 3? Let's find out. 

Pricing

The Kia EV6 and Hyundai IONIQ 5 represent a significant step in making EVs more affordable and readily available to the general public. A starting price over $14,000 lower gives the EV6 and IONIQ 5 a clear edge in affordability. The price difference is so large that customers can get the current highest trim options from Hyundai or Kia for around $4000 less than the entry Tesla Model 3, making the fully loaded IONIQ 5 and EV 6 vs the entry-level Model 3 the closest comparison on price. 

Charging and Range

When it comes to overall vehicle range, the Tesla Model 3 takes 1st place by offering around 80-100 km more range on a single charge over its competition. The good news is that all 3 vehicles offer an impressive range of around 500 KM. This, combined with fast rapid charging times across the board, mean all 3 EVs offer incredible flexibility for when and where you’ll need to charge next. The faster charging times on the IONIQ and EV6 are thanks to 800V rapid charging capability that Tesla does not offer. 

The EV6 and IONIQ 5 offer Vehicle to load (V2L) capability, which means your vehicle can charge other electronic devices, including other large devices like electric bikes, camping equipment, or even other EVs. V2L isn’t currently offered within the Tesla lineup of EVs. 

Horsepower

On paper the Model 3 is the current winner when it comes to overall horsepower on both the entry and top-end trims. However, when you consider the current top-end trim of the IONIQ 5 and the EV6 are priced below any available Model 3, a comparison based on a similar price gives the two less expensive EV’s the edge.

On top of this, the EV GT Trim which will release later in 2022 offers an incredible 576 horsepower, making the GT trim the ultimate EV for driving enthusiasts. The GT Trim will still be priced well below the $75,000 Tesla at a fully-loaded price of $61,995.

Interior

The interior of the Tesla Model 3, in general, is very minimalistic. While some may find this appealing, when combined with a large price tag compared to the IONQ 5 and EV6, customers may be disappointed with the value you receive. The EV6 and IONIQ 5 have very similar cabins, both feature dual display screens that are facing the driver to give you more of a driver-centric “cockpit” feel when driving. 

Design aside, the IONIQ 5 and EV6 offer the versatility that hatchbacks offer over the Model 3 sedan. Tesla does have the larger Model Y which offers a hatchback, and superior space over the IONIQ 5 and EV6, but it also comes with a starting price tag of over $75,000. Because of this, dog owners and drivers who need tons of cargo space will have an advantage going with one of the less expensive Korean-made EVs. 

Exterior Design

While looks are subjective, there are some key differences that distinguish these 3 EVs from each other. Firstly, the Model 3 has many of the same design features seen across the Tesla lineup. It won’t take more than a moment to realize you're looking at a Tesla thanks to Tesla’s trademark smoothed out front bumper, and there's nothing wrong with that. Tesla’s tried and true look is what helped land EV’s on the map and turned the Electronic Vehicle market into what it is today. 

The IONIQ 5 definitely has the most unique look of any of the EVs being compared. A retro theme featuring pixelated rear taillights meets the futuristic design of EVs in an unexpected and quirky way.

Last but certainly not least is the Kia EV6, which blends a sharp design you’d see on a sports coupe combined with a futuristic EV look. The EV6 is certainly the biggest head-turner out of the bunch, with an aggressive front bumper and striking looks that simply aren’t offered elsewhere in the EV market. 

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Conclusion

We think that Tesla may be a bit worried. Price, features, and performance make this an easy decision.

Check out all our EV6 articles here. Build your own EV6 here.