Hyundai IONIQ 6 Vs. Tesla Model 3
In today's EV world, endless models are popping up on the market from various automakers. Tesla has long been known as the reason electric cars became "cool," with brands like Hyundai releasing unique spins on the concept. Many drivers compare the Hyundai IONIQ 6 to the Model 3 from Tesla, as they are around the same price and capability.
In this post, we'll compare the two and see which EV nameplate truly beats the other. It's a battle of the ages: Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3. Stay tuned.
Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3: At a Glance
Comparing the Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3, you have two fully electric models retailing for under $40,000. With the Hyundai IONIQ 6, this mid-size sedan offers 240 to 361 miles of range per charge, 168 to 320 horsepower, a 53-77.4 kWh 480-697 V lithium-ion battery, and a futuristic design that has many drivers raising an eyebrow.
Moving onto Tesla, the Model 3 boasts 272 to 341 miles of range per charge, 271 to 510 horsepower, a 60-82 kWh 350 V lithium-ion battery, and a recent 2024 'Highland' refresh mainly to its interior cabin and exterior accents.
Both models are reliable, well-priced, and boast great range and performance specs.
Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3 Interior
Comparing the Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3 interior, you have a more sophisticated, user-focused base cabin in the IONIQ 6. The Model 3's newer cabin layout and features are nicer than before but may still be lacking for some drivers. Additionally, the IONIQ 6 surpasses expectations in comfort and aesthetics.
- Better interior design:Â Hyundai IONIQ 6
Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai IONIQ 6 Exterior
Looking outside the Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai IONIQ 6 in 2024, both models are very unique. With the Hyundai IONIQ 6, you have a distinctive grille and dynamic profile, giving it a stand-out appearance on or off the road. There is almost a retro feel to the IONIQ 6, which many drivers compliment.
The newest Highland generation of the Model 3 boasts a sharper front end and moves away from its iconic fishbowl styling. Many drivers have been happy with the latest generation Model 3, mentioning that it looks more upscale compared to before.
- Better exterior design:Â Hyundai IONIQ 6
Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai IONIQ 6 Pricing
Getting into the most important part of the Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3 debate, let's talk price points. Below, we'll share what each nameplate costs per trim to give you a better idea of what your money will get you with between either EV manufacturer.
Hyundai IONIQ 6
- SE Standard Range: $37,500
- SE: $42,450
- SEL: $45,250
- Limited: $50,150
Tesla Model 3
- Rear-Wheel Drive: $38,990
- Long Range All-Wheel Drive: $47,740
- Performance All-Wheel Drive: $53,990
Between these electric sedans, you have a lower starting and ending price with the Hyundai IONIQ 6. Tesla tends to fall into the luxury segment, so the two are nearly the same for pricing. Hyundai is not seen as a luxury model, although you will spend more on one of the IONIQ 6 trims.
It is also worth noting that the average EV costs around $50,000, making either of these nameplates lower than the industry average.
Specs and Performance Comparison
Comparing the specs and performance capabilities of the Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3, you have better range and battery capacity with Tesla. For example, a Model 3 RWD boasts 272 miles (the entry trim IONIQ 6 boasts 240 miles) and has a 0-60 MPH time of 5.8 seconds. In contrast, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 hits the 0-60 MPH mark in 5.1 seconds at its best scoring in AWD configurations.
If you purchase a Performance model, the Tesla Model 3 hits 0-60 MPH in a mere 2.9 seconds, so there's not much to compare. Battery-wise, the IONIQ 6 uses a 53-77.4 kWh 480-697 V lithium-ion battery pack, depending on the trim, boasting up to 361 miles. Model 3 will use a 60-82 kWh 350 V lithium-ion battery and travels up to 341 miles per full charge.
- Better range: Hyundai IONIQ 6
- Faster acceleration: Tesla Model 3
Range and MPGe Comparison
When comparing the fuel economy of the IONIQ 6 and Model 3, both vehicles use total electricity to function, with IONIQ 6 giving you more range in its top-tier trims. As we shared, the Model 3 can travel between 272 and 341 miles per full charge, while the IONIQ 6 can go 240 to 361 miles based on configuration. The EPA estimates the Tesla Model 3 can achieve 132 MPGe combined city/highway, while the IONIQ 6 offers 140 MPGe combined city/highway.
- Verdict: You have better MPGe with the IONIQ 6.
Safety and Technology Differences
Regarding the safety and tech differences between the Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3, each nameplate offers impressive specs. Inside the Model 3, you see safety features like Lane Assist, Collision Avoidance Assist, Speed Assist, and Cabin Camera.
For the Hyundai IONIQ 6, you can expect safety and tech features like Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist, Following Assist, and even Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. Hyundai models, including the IONIQ 6, will boast SmartSense safety features, which make them incredibly driver/passenger-focused.
Who Should Buy the 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6?
For those wondering if the 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 is right for them, the answer is YES if you like something unique-looking, ultra-safe, under $40,000 to start, and capable of ~240 to 361 miles of range per charge. It's something fresh and exciting for EV drivers and beats Tesla in the top-tier trim range.
Who Should Buy the 2024 Tesla Model 3?
If you're considering a Model 3, this vehicle is perfect for those wanting a luxury EV for under $40,000. Model 3 is one of the most popular electric nameplates on the market, and it has recently seen a major interior and subtle exterior redesign. The price is great, the speed is impressive, and the range is pretty decent for its size.
Get Your Hyundai IONIQ 6 at Colonial Hyundai
Now that you have an idea of the differences between a Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3, there's no better time to swing by your neighborhood dealership, Colonial Hyundai, to test drive one of these futuristic EVs. We have plenty of inventory ready to hit the road, and we can't wait to help you find the electric vehicle of your dreams!
