Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6: A Comparative Analysis of Leading Electric Sedans
There are finally more options for electric sedans. For a long time, the Tesla Model 3 was the only good electric sedan available at a reasonable price. However, Hyundai has recently introduced the Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 6 takes some design cues from the larger Ioniq 5 but is smaller and sleeker, with a design seemingly inspired by the Porsche 911.
The Tesla Model 3 remains an excellent choice for those looking for an electric car that isn’t a larger crossover. So, which one is better? Let’s take a look.
The exterior designs of the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 are quite different. If you’ve seen a Tesla before, you’ll recognize the Model 3 — it looks like a slightly different version of other Tesla models (except the Cybertruck). This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The Model 3 has sleek lines and a modern appearance, and if you like the look of other Tesla cars, you’ll like the Model 3. It’s available in several colors, but you’ll have to pay extra for any color other than Midnight Silver Metallic.
The Ioniq 6 is also sleek. Its design is inspired by the Porsche 911, with a swooping roofline, a small spoiler at the back, and curved lines throughout. It’s a good-looking car.
Winner: Tie
This one is truly a matter of taste.
The interiors of these two cars are also different. The Model 3 follows Tesla’s minimalist approach, featuring a large 15.4-inch display in the center and not much else. There’s no instrument cluster, and the air vents are barely visible. Everything is controlled through the center screen, which runs Tesla’s operating system, better than most other car software. The Model 3 also includes a wireless phone charger and vegan leather seats.
The Ioniq 6 has a busier interior. It has a smaller 12.3-inch display, coupled with a second 12.3-inch screen serving as the digital instrument cluster. There are capacitive buttons for climate controls and accent lighting throughout, which looks nice. The Ioniq 6 uses the same infotainment system as the Ioniq 5, which is relatively easy to navigate but not as good as Tesla’s system. However, it supports CarPlay and Android Auto.
Winner: Tie
If you prefer a familiar layout, choose the Ioniq 6. If you want the cleanest possible aesthetic, choose the Tesla.
Both the Model 3 and the Ioniq 6 are electric cars, offering that immediate EV response for a zippy driving experience. However, their performance differs.
The Tesla Model 3 comes in several variations. The standard Model 3 has a top speed of 140 mph, reaches 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and is rear-wheel drive. The Model 3 Long Range improves acceleration to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and is a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive car. The Model 3 Performance has a top speed of 162 mph and reaches 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, also with all-wheel drive. All models are quick, but the Model 3 Performance is the fastest.
The Ioniq 6 also comes in different models: SE Standard Range, SE, SEL, and Limited. Hyundai only quotes one 0-60 time — 5.1 seconds for the top-spec all-wheel-drive models, which deliver 320 horsepower. If that’s the fastest variant, the Model 3 is the higher-performing car overall.
Winner: Tesla Model 3
More important than basic performance is the range and charging tech.
The Model 3’s range varies from 272 miles for the basic rear-wheel-drive model to 333 miles for the Model 3 Long Range, which has a larger battery. The Model 3 Performance offers 315 miles of range. It supports charging speeds up to 250kW, providing 200 miles of range in 15 minutes under ideal conditions.
The Ioniq 6’s shortest range is the Limited model, an all-wheel-drive with a smaller battery. The longest-range model is the SE Long Range, which has an impressive 361 miles of range, higher than the longest-range Model 3. The Ioniq 6 supports charging at 350kW, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in under 18 minutes, recouping 65 miles in five minutes under ideal conditions.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 6
Hyundai offers a longer overall range and significantly faster charging, making this one no contest.
Both the Model 3 and the Ioniq 6 are available for purchase now. The Model 3 starts at $40,240 for the base model, going up to $53,240 for the Performance. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 starts at $41,600 for the SE Standard Range model, going up to $52,600 for the Limited model. The prices are similar, but the longest-range Ioniq 6 SE costs $45,500, compared to $47,240 for the Model 3 Long Range.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 6
The difference may be small, but for the model most customers will desire, Hyundai just edges out Tesla.
Both the Tesla Model 3 and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 are great cars and should be considered by anyone in the market for an electric sedan. The Ioniq 6 is slightly more compelling, given its better range and sleeker design. However, you can’t go wrong with either the Model 3 or the Ioniq 6.