Raj PandeyWith the progress of time, electric vehicles have been capturing the attention of the general market and, there are two models that make a mark in the affordable luxury EV sedan segment, the Tesla Model 3 and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. Like all luxury cars, both offer cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and futuristic styling, but which one is the better choice?
As we delve into this segment of “Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai Ioniq 6”, we will analyze the comparison of their design, performance, range, charging speed, technology, and overall value this will help you decide which Tesla is best for you.
1. “Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai Ioniq 6” Quick Overview
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 | Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
|---|---|---|
Starting Price (USD) |
$40,000 |
$42,450 |
Battery Size |
57.5 kWh – 82 kWh |
53 kWh – 77.4 kWh |
Range (EPA Est.) |
272 – 358 miles |
240 – 361 miles |
Range (EPA Est.) |
272 – 358 miles |
240 – 361 miles |
0-60 mph Acceleration |
5.8 – 3.1 seconds |
7.4 – 4.4 seconds |
Max Charging Speed |
250 kW (Supercharger) |
250 kW (Supercharger) |
Infotainment System |
Tesla OS (15-inch touchscreen) |
Hyundai Bluelink with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
Autonomous Driving |
Tesla Autopilot (Full Self-Driving Optional) |
Hyundai SmartSense (Level 2) |
Choosing between the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 is no easy task because each model stands out from the other. However, let’s look at their most important differences to help aid your choice.
2. Sporty vs. Futuristic: Exterior Design
Tesla Model 3: Sleek & Minimalist
Does not have a front grille, making it clean and aerodynamic.
Flush door handles add to its simplistic look.
Daring sporty design, but the Ioniq 6 is much more eye catching.
Hyundai Ioniq 6: Retro Futuristic Design
Features curved bold design inspired by 1930 streamliner cars.
Provides a unique touch with pixelated LED headlights and taillights.
Noticeably more aerodynamic than tesla. (Cd 0.22 vs. Tesla 0.23). This helps the design to be more efficient.
Winner: 
Hyundai Ioniq 6 If you prefer a futuristic bolder design. If you’re more into a clean modern aesthetic the Tesla Model 3 is an excellent choice.
3. Comfort vs. Minimalism: Interior & Technology
Tesla Model 3: Interior brought together by technology
A 15-inch touchscreen that has no physical buttons and can control all the features in the vehicle.
Central display contains all driving information because there is no instrument cluster.
Sleek and modern accent combined with a sense of space and freedom.
Wood accents and high quality materials are available in the premium trims.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Features: Practicality and Comfort
12.3 inch touchscreen infotainment + 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster.
There are more physical buttons for crucial commands.
Mood lighting with 64 different color themes.
Increased rear passenger space due to greater wheelbase.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 6 – If you lean towards comfort and traditional controls then the Ioniq 6 is perfect for you. The Ioniq 6 offers great blend of technology and usability. However, Tesla Model 3 wins on cutting edge, technology first design.
4. Driving Experience & Performance
Tesla Model 3 Performance:
One of the fastest EVs in its class is the dual – motor AWD variant (3.1 seconds 0 – 60 mph).
Sportier feeling when driving due to sharper and quicker steering response.
RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD) options.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Performance:
Dual-Motor AWD variant is quick, but not as quick as the most powerful Tesla. (4.4 seconds 0-60 mph)
Better suspension tuning for longer trips provides a smoother and comfortable ride.
More aggressive driving style is available, but it is not as quick as a Tesla.
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 6: Tesla Model 3 might be the option for someone looking for sporty, high-performance driving, however, Ioniq 6 excels when it comes to comforting cruising.
Also Read = EV Owners Can Now Make Money with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology – Here’s How!
5. Range and Charging Speed: Long-Distance Driving
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Range and Charging:
– Standard Range: 240 miles (base model).
– Long Range AWD: 316 miles range.
– Long Range RWD: 361 miles range (better than Tesla).
Max Charging Speed:
Ultra-Fast Charging – 350 kW
Tesla Model 3 Range & Charging:
– RWD Model 3: 272 miles range (base model)
– Long Range RWD: 333 miles range
– Performance Model 3: 315 miles range
– Max Charging Speed: 250 kW (Supercharger Network)
Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 6: Faster charging speed (350 kW) and longer range (361 miles) make the Ioniq 6 a better option for road trips. Despite having a bigger SuperCharger network, terrain super is only viable for Tesla enthusiasts.
6. Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Safety Features:
– Autopilot with adaptive cruise control and lane keeping.
– Optional Full Self Driving (FSD) for autonomous capability.
– 5 Star Safety Rating & strong crash test scores.
You get:
Fusion of cruise control with lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise, along with blind spot monitoring telematics – SmartSense Driver Assist.
Highway Driving Assist 2 – Fulfills the most basic driving requirement of keeping the car in the center of the lane.
5 – Star Safety Rating with robust crash protection.
Winner: ✓ Tesla Model 3 – For greater autonomous driving, Tesla has the edge with its adaptive settings enabled under FSD. Still, Hyundai’s SmartSense system is very sophisticated and much simpler to use.
7. Price & Value – Which One is More Affordable?
| Model | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|
Tesla Model 3 (Base RWD) |
$40,000 |
Tesla Model 3 Long Range |
$47,000 |
Tesla Model 3 Performance |
$54,000 |
Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE (Base RWD) |
$42,450 |
Hyundai Ioniq 6 SEL |
$47,000 |
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD |
$53,000 |
💰 Winner: ✅ Tesla Model 3 – Slightly cheaper base price and more affordable high-performance variant. However, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers more features for the price.
8. Conclusion: Which EV Should You Go With?
🚗 Buy the Tesla Model 3 if you want:
✔ More features and smarter technology including Full Self Driving option.
✔ Best access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
✔ A more sports-like driving experience when accelerating.
🚙 Purchase the Hyundai Ioniq 6 if you are looking for:
✔ Up to 361 miles of range and charging speeds of 350 kW.
✔ Better comfort and more cabin space for the passengers.
✔ Stylish premium design with futuristic features.
Both vehicles are in the top of their respective classes, but it varies from person to person according to their driving style. Which one would you pick? Write in the comments! 🚗⚡😊
