Image Credit: AutoStation, Tesla

After my last review comparing the Tesla Model 3 and the Nissan N7, a reader reached out to me privately asking for another comparison — this time, with a worthy contender to challenge the Model 3. I must admit, I wasn’t fully satisfied with that initial review, given that the Nissan N7 lacked crucial details. As an upcoming vehicle with no confirmed specifications at the time of writing, the comparison felt incomplete and, perhaps, a bit unconvincing.

Determined to provide a more thorough and competitive analysis, I set out to find a contender that could truly go toe-to-toe with the Model 3, and possibly even outshine it. After some research, I found a promising candidate: Hyundai’s Ioniq 6. While I know this has been covered before, I’ve decided to revisit it from my perspective, aiming for an unbiased and balanced review.

In this comparison, we’ll take an in-depth look at the key features, performance, and design of both the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6. These vehicles cater to different segments of the rapidly growing EV market, with Tesla known for its high-performance electric vehicles and autonomous driving capabilities, while Hyundai emphasizes sustainability and cutting-edge design. We’ll compare their powertrains, technology, interiors, and safety features to help you decide which electric sedan best suits your driving preferences and lifestyle. Let’s dive into the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

Detailed Comparison: Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai Ioniq 6:

1. Powertrain & Performance

• Model 3:
  • Variants: Standard Range Plus (RWD), Long Range (AWD), Performance (AWD).
  • Motor Power: Up to 450 horsepower (Performance model).
  • 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds (Performance).
  • Charging: Tesla Supercharger network (fast charging with 250 kW).
  • Range:
    • Standard Range Plus: 263 miles (423 km).
    • Long Range AWD: 358 miles (576 km).
    • Performance: 315 miles (507 km).
• Ioniq 6:
  • Variants: RWD, AWD.
  • Motor Power:
    • RWD: 225 horsepower.
    • AWD: 320 horsepower.
  • 0-60 mph:
    • RWD: Around 7.4 seconds.
    • AWD: Around 5.1 seconds.
  • Charging: 800V ultra-fast charging capability, up to 10-80% in 18 minutes.
  • Range:
    • RWD long-range: 614 km (382 miles) (WLTP estimate).
    • AWD: Around 300-350 miles (EPA estimate).

2. Interior & Technology

• Model 3:
  • Interior: Minimalist design with all controls through a 15-inch touchscreen.
  • Material: Premium interior with vegan leather options and high-quality seating.
  • Tech Features:
    • Autopilot: Includes basic driver assistance, with Full Self-Driving (FSD) available as an upgrade.
    • Over-the-Air (OTA) updates for software improvements.
    • Infotainment: Integrated Spotify, Netflix, and other apps.
    • Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (via third-party apps).
• Ioniq 6:
  • Interior: Minimalist design with a focus on sustainability (eco-friendly leather, recycled materials).
  • Material: Premium sustainable materials and a high-tech interior.
  • Tech Features:
    • Hyundai SmartSense suite (includes Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning, etc.).
    • OTA updates for software.
    • Infotainment: Dual 12-inch screens (one for infotainment, the other for the digital cockpit).
    • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Voice Recognition.
    • V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): Powers external devices.

3. Design & Comfort

• Model 3:
  • Design: Sleek sedan with a simple, aerodynamic shape.
  • Comfort: Spacious front and rear seats with a large glass roof that adds to the airy feel.
  • Cargo Space: Ample trunk space with additional storage under the hood (frunk).
  • Seating: Offers heated seats, ventilated seats in higher trims.
• Ioniq 6:
  • Design: Aerodynamic design with a drag coefficient of 0.21 (improving range).
  • Comfort: Spacious and futuristic interior with high-quality materials.
  • Cargo Space: Large trunk and additional storage.
  • Seating: Premium materials with options for heated and ventilated seats, plus sustainable options.

4. Safety Features

• Model 3:
  • Safety Ratings: High safety ratings (NHTSA 5-star rating).
  • Features: Includes Autopilot, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring (with the option for Full Self-Driving for an extra cost).
• Ioniq 6:
  • Safety Ratings: High safety ratings (Euro NCAP 5-star rating).
  • Features: Hyundai SmartSense suite includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2.

5. Pricing

• Model 3:
  • Price Range:
    • Standard Range Plus: $39,990 USD.
    • Long Range AWD: $47,990 USD.
    • Performance: $54,990 USD.
• Ioniq 6:
  • Price Range: Starts at $40,000 USD for the base model, with higher trims reaching around $50,000+ USD.

6. Charging Infrastructure & Range

• Model 3:
  • Charging Infrastructure: Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, making it easy to find fast charging locations.
  • Range: Between 263 miles to 358 miles, depending on the variant.
• Ioniq 6:
  • Charging Infrastructure: Relies on the growing network of DC fast chargers (800V charging).
  • Range: Up to 614 km (382 miles) for the RWD variant.

Wrap Up

Model 3 Pros:

• Superior performance and acceleration (especially in the Performance model).
• Access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network.
• Advanced Autopilot features and the potential for Full Self-Driving.
• Over-the-air updates ensure continuous improvement.

Model 3 Cons:

• Minimalist interior design may feel sparse for some.
• Build quality issues reported by some owners.
• Higher price for premium models.
• Rear-seat space may not be ideal for taller passengers.

Ioniq 6 Pros:

• Impressive range with the RWD variant (up to 614 km).
• Sustainable materials and eco-friendly design elements.
• High-tech interior with dual screens and advanced infotainment features.
• Comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features.
• Spacious and comfortable cabin.

Ioniq 6 Cons:

• Charging infrastructure not as extensive as Tesla’s proprietary network.
• Performance (especially acceleration) is not as thrilling as the Tesla Model 3.
• Brand recognition in the EV market is not as strong as Tesla’s.
• Higher trims can become expensive.

Both vehicles have a lot to offer, but the Tesla Model 3 stands out for its performance and charging network, while the Hyundai Ioniq 6 excels in range, design, and sustainability features. Whether you prioritize high-tech performance or eco-friendly innovation, each car offers a unique path forward in the world of electric vehicles.

Note: While the specifications and details mentioned in this article are based on the most up-to-date information available at the time of writing, vehicle features, pricing, and performance metrics may vary over time. For the latest updates, please refer to the manufacturers’ official websites or trusted sources.

Sources: Hyundai, Tesla