Kia EV6 vs Tesla Model 3: Do We Have a New Victor?

Finally, the European automotive giants are lumbering into the electric revolution. Meanwhile, 2 companies have recently been setting the trends they aspire to. Today, we’re going over the contenders. So, the Kia EV6 vs Tesla Model 3, which will be crowned as the new king of the electric jungle?

Tesla entered the car market a couple of decades ago. Though, they quickly became the dominant force in electric cars! Well, for 2 months last year they were the dominant player in ALL car sales! While Tesla was carving a brave niche in the new world, a Korean brand routed in bicycle manufacture was quietly putting all the wiring into place. Kia’s new entry to the electric market is the EV6, which will be released imminently.

The comparison between Kia and Tesla is something many are eager to make. The reality is, both will take more market share from petrol and diesel than from each other! I find myself jokingly comparing Tesla build quality to that of a 1990’s Kia when poor build quality was commonplace. Ironic, no?

Which looks better: Kia EV6 or Tesla Model 3?

Looks-wise, I feel there’s no comparison. Too many people forget that cars are about choice and personal preference. The Kia EV6 is a fastback/hatchback with an SUV style ride height. The Tesla Model 3 is a saloon; you know which you prefer. Whichever shape you prefer will probably dictate which car you prefer.

Performance and Pricing

There is very little to choose between, both have multiple battery and power options. Both Tesla and Kia are probably the most efficient EV manufacturers out there. They can both do just under 300 miles, and both have very similar pricing and performance.

Design-wise, the cars are worlds away.

The Tesla is minimalist and pure, whereas the Kia is detailed and intrinsic. It’s not for me to tell you which you would prefer. Personally, I drive a Jaguar i-PACE and I love the Kia; it feels much more detailed and “car-like” to me. However, to suggest that’s what everyone looks for would be a huge disservice to Tesla.

Kia EV6 or Tesla Model 3: Who dominates on the tech front?

Both cars have great tech. Tesla is probably slightly ahead, though, it’s also ahead of legislation. There’s no guarantee that self-drive will ever be legal, let alone in the lifetime of these cars. Want to find out more about self-driving cars? Read our blog on driverless vehicles here!

Charging-wise, both cars can charge ridiculously quickly.

They can both charge up 200 miles in around 20 minutes. Let’s not forget, 200 miles in 20 minutes is the reason why many choose Tesla; the supercharger network is unique to Tesla and unrivalled by any competitor!

Has Kia created a Tesla clone, or have they upped the EV game?

Personally, I think it’s another Tesla alternative, but a very worthy one. On paper, Kia builds better quality cars than Tesla, I think few can dispute that. When it comes to charging, nobody can rival Tesla. The fact that the Kia EV6 can charge as fast as a Tesla for a similar price is great.

Let’s be completely honest though, I’m writing this blog from the Staffordshire countryside. To get the same charge rate as Tesla, I would have to drive to Leeds or Blackburn. The charging infrastructure simply doesn’t compare, for the impatient ones at least. I am quite happy with the 232 miles I start with every day in my i-PACE. I’m happy to spend 40 minutes at a Shell or BP station with charging to get another 200 miles.

In summary, no, Kia has not produced a Tesla beater. But boy, have they created yet another very compelling reason for people to make the move to electric motoring! Those who enjoy the more traditional style and build quality of premium ICE vehicles will love this one! They don’t have to feel guilty about the emissions either, win-win!

Want to find your dream car? Take a look at our guide with all the latest EVs and prices! *Prices subject to change.