Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai Sonata
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
The Tesla Model 3 starts from $54,900 before on-road costs, while the Hyundai Sonata opens at $55,500. That makes the Tesla Model 3 the more affordable entry point by $600.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $60,390 and $61,050 respectively.
The Tesla Model 3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Hyundai Sonata, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge — from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC — estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
57.5kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 170kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 170kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model 3 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen, while the Hyundai Sonata gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments.
The Hyundai Sonata counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats and Bose audio that the Tesla Model 3 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Tesla Model 3 gets vegan leather upholstery while the Hyundai Sonata offers suede & nappa leather.
Drivetrain
The Tesla Model 3 uses a Electric Motor producing 208kW and 340Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds.
The Hyundai Sonata responds with a Petrol making 213kW and 422Nm, paired to a 8-speed wet dual-clutch (dct) driving the front wheels.
The Hyundai Sonata has the clear power advantage at 213kW vs 208kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model 3 measures 4,720mm long on a 2,875mm wheelbase, 190mm shorter than the Hyundai Sonata at 4,910mm (2,840mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model 3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 682L in the Tesla Model 3 and 480L in the Hyundai Sonata, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 202L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.6m
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Tesla Model 3) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Sonata). The Hyundai Sonata has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Sonata if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Sonata trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model 3 has a clear edge. The Hyundai Sonata adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Sonata?
The Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest at $54,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Hyundai Sonata by $600.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Hyundai Sonata uses the least fuel at 8.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model 3 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Tesla Model 3 has the largest boot at 682L.
Which can tow the most?
The Tesla Model 3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Hyundai Sonata has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Hyundai Sonata makes the most power at 213kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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