2024 Kia EV6 vs. 2024 Tesla Model Y Comparison

Tesla got a head start bringing electric vehicles (EVs) to market while competitors had to race to catch up. One of Tesla’s best-selling vehicles, the Model Y SUV, is a practical go-getter with appealing range, performance, and cargo space. The Kia EV6 followed two years later and has been an impressive challenger, with crisp body lines and a high-performance model with supercar-like acceleration. Let’s see how these two EVs compare.

2024 Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is entering its third model year, still looking sharp, and has up to 310 miles of driving range. A high-performance GT version packs 576 horsepower. In most states, the entry-level model is the Light Long Range RWD (rear-wheel drive) trim that offers 225 hp and 310 miles of driving on a full charge; West Coast states see the return of a 167-hp Light RWD trim with a 232-mile range ($42,600). Otherwise, pricing starts at $45,950, while a GT runs $61,600.

2024 Kia EV6 Highlights

Stunning design inside and out: Whether you purchase the entry-level model or the high-performance GT version, you will get a sleek EV that looks edgier and sportier than a computer mouse. The interior design can be considered both futuristic and familiar simultaneously but not minimalist to the point of blandness

10-year powertrain warranty: No one offers a warranty like Kia and its corporate cousin, Hyundai. Its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is the best in class. This includes battery coverage, which exceeds Tesla’s and the federally mandated minimum by two years. Also, while the EV6 is newer, it has not been beset with criticisms of build quality so far, which bodes well for its long-term durability.

Easy service: EVs have a better maintenance reputation than gas-powered cars due to having fewer moving parts, but every part wears, and all machines can malfunction. Kia’s extensive nationwide dealer network far outstrips Tesla’s mobile service network. The Tesla network’s limited availability could require long-distance tows for significant repairs.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the EV6 models for sale near you

2024 Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is America’s best-selling electric car, reportedly surpassing 2 million all-time sales in 2023. With excellent range, innovative tech features, and the nation’s most reliable and extensive charger network, it makes it an easy choice to join the EV revolution. Pricing starts at $43,990.

Tesla Model Y Highlights

Competitive pricing: Since we compared these two EVs for the previous model year, Tesla has engaged in some aggressive price cuts to its cars. The $43,990 starting price for the 2024 Model Y is $22,000 less than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) we published in the previous comparison. This figure does not include the $7,500 federal tax rebate offered for EVs materially sourced, manufactured, and sold in the United States, reducing the asking price even more. Sales of the South Korea-produced EV6 are ineligible for the federal credit, although leases can qualify as of this writing.

Flexible space: The EV6 and the Model Y accommodate five people comfortably. However, the Model Y Long Range has an optional third row, perhaps best reserved for the smallest passengers, bumping its potential headcount to seven. Roughly the same size as the EV6, the Model Y claims 22 cubic feet more cargo space with the rear seats down, but adding a third row may cut into that volume a little bit.

Automotive innovation: The driving force of Tesla’s market dominance has been its commitment to technological advancements. It’s what helped it essentially create the EV segment, and with software updates, it may continue to preserve the company’s future. A reputation that its cars will always be on the technological cutting edge may give Tesla’s cars more shelf life than others before it.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Model Y models for sale near you

Similarities

The EV6 and Model Y are midsize, all-electric SUVs with around 300 miles of maximum range. However, depending on which trims you’re comparing, you might find the Model Y longer lasting in the mileage department. Each offers a brohorsepower spectrumwer, with Kia offering lower lows and higher highs. Price decreases have brought both EVs closer to the point that more Americans can afford to go electric.

Conclusion

It’s arguable to call these cars SUVs like the automakers with their designs. Most SUVs have about two more inches of ground clearance. However, both have very versatile interiors and sports car looks and power specs and are a fun way to get around town. The EV6 and Model Y are easy vehicles to live with and an excellent place to start EV shopping.