The electric vehicle market is heating up, and two of the hottest crossover SUVs available today are the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. Both offer cutting-edge EV technology, impressive performance, and plenty of space for families—but which one comes out on top? As an EV expert and enthusiast, I‘ve thoroughly examined these two vehicles to help you decide which one is right for you. Let‘s dive in and compare the Kia EV6 vs. Tesla Model Y across the categories that matter most.
Pricing and Value
For many car shoppers, price is one of the top considerations. Here‘s how the EV6 and Model Y stack up:
The Kia EV6 starts at $48,700 for the base Wind RWD trim and goes up to $61,600 for the high-performance GT AWD version. There are a total of 5 trim levels.
The Tesla Model Y has a simpler lineup with just the Long Range and Performance models, which start at $54,990 and $57,990 respectively. A few options like paint color, interior, wheels and self-driving features can increase the price.
At first glance, the Kia EV6 has the edge with a lower starting price by over $6,000. It also offers more configuration options to suit different budgets. However, the Model Y includes some standard features, like a glass roof and larger center screen, that cost extra on the EV6.
Overall, the EV6 provides a better value in terms of price, but the Model Y has an edge when it comes to included premium features. Price-conscious buyers will appreciate the Kia‘s bang-for-the-buck, while those wanting the most luxurious experience may prefer to spend a bit more on the Tesla. Of course, available incentives and gas savings compared to a conventional vehicle make both the EV6 and Model Y attractively priced for an EV crossover.
Range and Charging
Driving range on a single charge and charging speed are two critical factors for electric vehicles. The Model Y has the clear advantage on maximum range, with the Long Range trim capable of an impressive 330 miles. Even the Performance version can travel 303 miles before needing to plug in.
The Kia EV6 has a wider spectrum of range based on the battery, motor and drivetrain configuration:
Wind RWD and GT-Line RWD: 310 miles
Wind AWD: 282 miles
GT-Line AWD: 252 miles
GT AWD: 206 miles
So the EV6 is competitive at the top end, but lags behind the Model Y on most trims. If maximum range is your top priority, the Tesla is the clear winner.
Both vehicles utilize the most common connector types for public fast charging—Tesla‘s proprietary connector for the Model Y and the CCS standard for the EV6. The Model Y can replenish 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a Supercharger, while the EV6 can charge from 10-80% in under 18 minutes at a high-power DC fast charging station. Charging times on a Level 2 home or public charger are similar at around 7 hours from empty to full.
Tesla still has the edge when it comes to the charging experience thanks to its seamless integration with the Supercharger network. No apps or cards are needed—just plug in and the vehicle starts charging and billing automatically. The EV6 offers a similar experience on the Electrify America network, but it‘s not quite as effortless as Tesla‘s walled garden.
Kia does throw in a nice perk of 1,000 kWh of free charging credits on Electrify America, which equates to around 3,500 miles of driving. While the Model Y doesn‘t come with any complimentary charging, the Supercharger network is still more comprehensive with over 40,000 stalls worldwide.
Performance
Don‘t let their crossover designs fool you—both the EV6 and Model Y are seriously quick EVs. The Performance version of the Model Y can rocket from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, on par with many sports cars. The Long Range is no slouch either at 4.8 seconds.
But the Kia EV6, especially in GT trim, is even faster. Kia claims a 0-60 time of 3.2 seconds for the top-dog EV6. Even the base Wind RWD can do it in 7.2 seconds, more than adequate for daily driving duties. In fact, the EV6 GT is currently the most powerful Kia model ever produced.
Both crossovers also handle exceptionally well thanks to their low-mounted battery packs and quick-reacting electric motors. The EV6 benefits from a slightly lower center of gravity and wider stance, but the Model Y‘s software-based traction control is extremely effective at managing grip.
Either vehicle will put a grin on your face with their instant acceleration and agility that belies their family-friendly forms. Based on the stats, the EV6 has a slight edge—especially the GT—but you really can‘t go wrong with the performance of these electric crossovers.
Interior and Cargo Space
The EV6 and Model Y both have spacious interiors with room for 5 passengers, although the Model Y offers an optional third row to boost seating capacity to 7. The Kia‘s cabin has a more conventional design with a floating center console, rotary shift knob, and a mix of physical buttons and touchscreens. Material quality is good for the price point with vegan leather, recycled plastics and aluminum trim.
In contrast, the Model Y features Tesla‘s signature minimalist interior with almost all controls consolidated into the large 15-inch center touchscreen. The dash design is spartan yet elegant, trimmed in faux wood with hidden air vents. A panoramic glass roof opens up the cabin while the front seats are supportive and highly adjustable. The Model Y‘s cabin feels a bit more tech-focused and futuristic, but the EV6‘s is still modern and premium.
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Model Y has a clear advantage thanks to its taller profile and underfloor storage compartments. With the rear seats up, the Model Y provides 30.2 cubic feet of cargo volume compared to the EV6‘s 24.4 cubic feet. Folding the seats opens up 72.1 and 50.2 cubic feet respectively. The EV6 has a useful front trunk (frunk) but the Model Y‘s is significantly larger.
For hauling people and gear, the Tesla Model Y is the winner, especially if you need to seat more than 5. But the Kia EV6 still has a roomy, well-appointed interior that will impress most crossover buyers.
Technology and Driver Assistance
As two of the most high-tech electric vehicles on the market, the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y come packed with cutting-edge features and driver aids. The EV6 sports dual 12.3-inch curved displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, with crisp graphics and snappy performance. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice controls, cloud-based navigation and over-the-air updates are all standard.
The Model Y sticks with its trademark 15-inch center touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions. The screen is responsive and intuitive to use, with features like video streaming, an extensive arcade of games, and a web browser. The Model Y also offers a premium audio system, GPS-enabled Sentry Mode security, and Dog Mode to keep your pets comfortable.
On the driver assistance front, the EV6 comes standard with Kia‘s excellent Highway Driving Assist II, which blends adaptive cruise control with lane centering for semi-autonomous capability on highways. The system can also automatically change lanes when you activate the turn signal, and slow down for curves using navigation data. Parking is made easier with the 360-degree camera system and Remote Smart Parking Assist that can pull the vehicle in or out of tight spaces from outside.
But Tesla is still the industry leader when it comes to self-driving tech. The Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, while pricey at $15,000, enables the car to navigate on Autopilot, auto lane change, auto park, and even be summoned to your location in a parking lot. The latest FSD beta software can handle city streets and traffic lights with human supervision. While not fully autonomous yet, Tesla‘s system is the most advanced on the market.
Warranty and Reliability
Kia is known for its long warranty coverage, and the EV6 is no exception. You get a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty—one of the best in the business. Roadside assistance is also included for 5 years/60,000 miles.
The Tesla Model Y has a shorter 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, but its powertrain is covered for 8 years/120,000 miles, whichever comes first. That should provide peace of mind about the longevity of the battery and electric motors. However, Tesla does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance or roadside assistance like some other luxury brands.
When it comes to reliability, it‘s difficult to compare since the EV6 is a brand new model. However, Kia as a brand has significantly improved its dependability ratings from third-party firms like J.D. Power in recent years. The Tesla Model Y had some initial quality control issues, but many of those have been ironed out and owner satisfaction remains very high.
Ultimately, the Kia EV6 has the edge in warranty coverage, but both EVs should provide years of relatively trouble-free motoring.
The Verdict
After an in-depth comparison across multiple key factors, which electric crossover comes out on top in the battle of Kia EV6 vs. Tesla Model Y? The answer really depends on your priorities and personal preferences.
The Kia EV6 wins on value, offering a lower starting price, more standard equipment and a longer basic warranty than the Model Y. It also provides similar charging speed and slightly quicker acceleration in its highest-end GT trim. The EV6‘s interior is more conventional, but still premium and packed with tech.
On the flip side, the Tesla Model Y takes the crown for maximum driving range, cargo space, and self-driving sophistication. Tesla‘s Supercharger network remains a key advantage for convenient charging on the go. The Model Y‘s cabin also feels more minimalist and futuristic, for better or worse.
For my money, the Kia EV6 is the better all-around choice in this EV crossover contest. It provides 90-95% of the Model Y‘s functionality and performance at a more attainable price point, with a more approachable interior and best-in-class warranty. As Kia‘s first dedicated EV, the EV6 is an outstanding effort that deserves serious consideration from any electric crossover shopper.
That said, the Tesla Model Y remains the gold standard for long range, charging convenience and autonomous driving features—if you‘re willing to pay for them. The Model Y is the EV to beat in this segment and makes a compelling alternative to gas-powered luxury crossovers.
You really can‘t go wrong with either of these impressive electric crossovers. The Kia EV6 has a slight edge in my book, but the Tesla Model Y remains a formidable contender. Hopefully this detailed comparison has helped you decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle. Happy electric motoring!
