Comparing the Sporty Electric Vehicles

• To compare the two electric SUVs, the Tesla Model Y was driven and the Kia EV6 was driven. 
• The Model Y features a minimalist interior and an iPad-like touchscreen.
• The EV6 is sporty and cheaper than other cars, but it’s great for those who prefer a more traditional interior. 

You’ve decided to go electric and are wondering what car to buy.

There’s Tesla, the American brand that is synonymous with electric cars. On the other hand, there are electric up-and-comersLike Kia.

The South Korean brand sells one the most popular and fastest-selling EVs: The EV6 SUV. It is sporty and elegantly designed, and excels at the range department.

But can it withstand Elon Musk’s wildly popular? Model Y SUV? To find out, I drove both.

Which is more affordable?

The Kia starts from $41,400, which is significantly lower than the $65,990 Model Y.

What about range?

Tesla sells some the longest-range EVs on the market. The base Model Y offers 330 miles — and that’s with efficiency-sapping all-wheel drive as standard.

Kia is catching up with it with a strong 310 mile range in the EV6 Wind RWD trim, which costs $47,500. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, base models have 232 miles of range while all-wheel drive models have 274.

How fast can they charge?

The EV6 is one the fastest-charging electric cars that you can buy. According to Kia, the EV6 can charge its battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes if it is plugged into a sufficiently powerful station. It would take approximately closer to 30 minutes for the Y.

While Kias rely on home charging and fast-charging third party stations, Tesla owners have access to Supercharger stations that are exclusive to them. common exceedingly simple to operate.

How do they drive?

Both cars have snappy steering, making them more fun to drive than other SUVs. Although the Tesla is faster, it is not as agile. sacrifices ride comfort.

The Model Y’s acceleration is phenomenal and will make you want to get back in your seat. Although the EV6 comes with a powerful all wheel-drive layout, I tried the rear-wheel drive model which offers more driving range and acceleration. 

What about interior space and cargo space?

Although the vehicles are similar in size, the Tesla has more space for passengers and cargo. The Model Y’s interior feels large and open due to its large glass roof. Total storage space is 76.2 cubic yards, including a trunk.

With the seats folded, the EV6 can store 50.2 cubic feet. lacks a proper frunk.

Some buyers may prefer the Kia’s bold and sporty interior to Tesla’s minimalistic and button-free design. The Model Y is not recommended for people who dislike the use of a touchscreen to control everything. 

How does the tech stack-up?

Tim Levin/Insider

The Model Y’s big touchscreen makes it a tech fan’s dream. It has fun features such video games, as well as more useful features like a Sentry Mode which monitors passersby with the car’s exterior cameras. Software updates and new features are regularly added to the system. 

The Kia is also a snappy device, but it’s not an iPhone on wheels. It has more traditional controls and a faster display than the Tesla. It does have two outlets. provide enough electricity to power household appliances.

Verdict

It’s a toss up. Both are great electric options, and they satisfy different price points and desires.

The Kia was fun to drive, it charged quickly, and offered almost the same range as the Tesla. It also has more analog controls and is more affordable.

If you prefer a minimalist interior and supercharger convenience, the Model Y is the best choice.