MotorTrend recently named the new Hyundai IONIQ 5 its 2023 SUV of the Year. So, if you’re shopping for an electric vehicle (EV), the IONIQ 5 should be on your shortlist. Huffines Hyundai Plano has an expansive inventory of all Hyundai vehicles and eagerly awaits the arrival of Hyundai’s latest entry into the EV market — the IONIQ 6 sedan. Set to hit the U.S. market in early 2023, the IONIQ 6 sedan’s closest rival appears to be the Tesla Model 3. So, we asked our EV experts to compare the two EVs here to show you how they stack up.
2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3: Trim Levels and Pricing
Hyundai hasn’t officially published trim levels and pricing for the IONIQ 6, but insiders expect a similar lineup to its IONIQ 5 SUV counterpart. You can expect an SE, SEL, and Limited trim if this proves to be correct.
If Hyundai configures these trims the same, the SE will be a standard range single motor with rear-wheel drive. All other models will have the option to add a second motor for extended range and all-wheel drive. Our experts believe the price will range between $45,000-$60,000 depending on the model and options. However, some reports have the SE single-motor trim dipping below $40,000, so we’ll have to wait for official pricing.
Tesla has a similar trim makeup with a Standard Range Plus using a single motor and the Long Range and Performance models equipped with dual motors and all-wheel drive. The Model 3 Standard Range Plus starts at $46,990. Tesla’s dual-motor Long Range begins at $57,990, and the Performance model prices at $62,990.
Edge: IONIQ 6
From a trim-level offering and pricing perspective, the IONIQ 6 comes in at a lower price point with the same basic powertrain setup.
2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3: Performance
Performance on an EV starts with the driving range. Many factors affect the driving range, the most significant factor being the battery capacity. The IONIQ 6 SE Standard Range has a 53.0 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a single motor that produces 149 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Hyundai’s SEL and Limited models with a single motor come with a 77.4 kWh battery that provides 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the SEL or Limited trim with a dual motor and the same battery results in 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque.
The IONIQ 6 hasn’t undergone EPA testing to confirm the driving range, but Hyundai offers clues for what to expect. The single-motor SE Standard Range should top 250 miles on a single charge. Hyundai estimates a 340-mile range if you choose the IONIQ 5 with the larger battery and single motor. The dual motor with the larger battery still achieves 310 miles of range.
The Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus has a 54.0 kWh battery and a single motor with 283 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Tesla’s dual-motor variants come with an 82.0 kWh battery, but it hasn’t published official horsepower and torque numbers yet. Experts believe they will provide at least 400 horsepower and torque, but we’ll have to wait for confirmation.
EPA estimates for the Model 3 Standard Range are 263 miles on a single charge. The Model 3 Long Range trim achieves 353 miles, and the Model 3 Performance delivers 315 miles.
The EV powertrain puts out ample horsepower and torque, which affects performance. Hyundai estimates the IONIQ 6 Long Range variant with the larger battery and dual motors will go from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Tesla states the Model 3 Performance does the same in only 3.1 seconds.
However, MotorTrend recently tested the IONIQ 5 with the identical powertrain and found the boxier SUV to achieve zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Looking at the more aerodynamic and smaller IONIQ 6, we suspect Hyundai’s estimates to be quite conservative.
Edge: Even
Both manufacturers have no official ratings in critical areas. As a result, we find it difficult to award one or the other when comparing powertrain configurations without a complete comparison. However, what we do know has them very close.
2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs. Tesla Model 3: Comfort, Convenience, and Technology
Drivers who tested the IONIQ 6 universally claim it drives smoothly and quietly like a top-tier luxury model. For years, the Model 3 has been criticized for its noise and vibration. In addition, the IONIQ 6 measures 6.7 inches longer, 1.2 inches wider, and 2.1 inches taller than the Model 3. Of course, the IONIQ 6 has more cabin space. In particular, the passenger legroom in the rear of the IONIQ 6 puts the Model 3 to shame.
Hyundai offers more sophisticated materials and designs both inside and out that elevate the IONIQ 6 to luxury car status. Technology in the IONIQ 6 runs through dual 12-inch screens that appear as one. The left screen displays customizable driving data and the ability to set the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal, adjust the steering, and tune your motor response.
The right screen has touch/pinch/zoom capability and operates all your infotainment. Below the touch screen, you have physical buttons to control key systems such as maps and media. You also have a volume knob and a star button that works like a preset for tuning the radio to your favorite station. Unfortunately, you don’t have physical controls with the Model 3, making it difficult to execute simple functions and another knock against the Tesla.
Both vehicles sync wirelessly with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technology, and each manufacturer includes a suite of driver-assist systems. Hyundai SmartSense offers a full array of technologies, including semi-autonomous driving. Feedback from the testers is that the system works well. Tesla’s Autopilot system offers more semi-autonomous driving features, yet experts find them buggy and unreliable, shutting off at times without notice.
Edge: IONIQ 6
Hyundai separates itself from the Model 3 regarding comfort, convenience, and technology features. If you want a luxurious, tech-laden driving experience, opt for the IONIQ 6.
The Hyundai IONIQ 6 Beats the Tesla Model 3
After a thorough review, we find it hard not to award the win to the IONIQ 6. Hyundai came up with a plan and executed it to perfection. You get impressive performance, exceptional comfort, and cutting-edge tech at a lower price with the IONIQ 6. If you’re ready to upgrade your Plano, Texas, commute with a remarkable EV, contact our finance center to get started. We have the online tools to help you build and order your IONIQ 6, and our finance managers can get you the best deal for any credit level.