Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV6: Electric SUV Showdown
America's best-selling EV vs Korea's most awarded. which is the better electric SUV?
Tesla Model Y Long Range
From $65,900
SUV
Dual Motor Electric
324kW
15.5 kWh/100km
5★ ANCAP
854L
Kia EV6 Long Range AWD
From $72,590
SUV
Dual Motor Electric
239kW
17.2 kWh/100km
5★ ANCAP
490L
Price Breakdown
The Model Y is $6,690 cheaper. Both are premium EVs, but the Tesla offers more range and more power for less money. Tesla's depreciation has been unpredictable due to frequent price changes, while the EV6 has depreciated more steadily. Running costs are similar for both.
Safety Rundown
Both 5-star ANCAP. The Model Y has Tesla Autopilot with automatic lane changing. The EV6 has Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane change. Both require hands on wheel. Safety features are comprehensive on both, no meaningful difference.
Feature Showdown
The EV6's standout features: V2L (power external devices from the car), 800V architecture (faster charging), and a conventional dashboard with dual 12.3-inch curved screens. The Model Y counters with Camp Mode, Dog Mode, Sentry Mode, the Supercharger network, and the 15-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates.
Drivetrain
Similar battery sizes, different architectures. The Model Y uses Tesla's 400V platform; the EV6 uses Kia's E-GMP 800V platform shared with the Ioniq 5.
| Drivetrain | Model Y LR | EV6 LR AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | 400V | 800V |
| Power | 324kW | 239kW |
| Torque | 493Nm | 605Nm |
| Battery | 78.1 kWh | 77.4 kWh |
| Efficiency | 15.5 kWh/100km | 17.2 kWh/100km |
| Range | 533km | 484km |
| Cd | 0.23 | 0.288 |
| 10-80% DC Charge | 27 min | 18 min |
The Model Y's aerodynamic advantage (Cd 0.23 vs 0.288) is the main reason for its 49km range lead. At highway speeds, the Tesla slips through the air much more efficiently. The EV6's 800V architecture enables faster charging, partially offsetting the range disadvantage on long trips.
Space & Comfort
The EV6 has a more conventional and premium-feeling cabin. The Model Y is more spacious but more minimalist.
| Space | Model Y | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Boot Space | 854L | 490L |
| Boot (seats down) | 1,919L | 1,300L |
| Frunk | 117L | 52L |
| Wheelbase | 2,890mm | 2,900mm |
| Display | 15" centre | Dual 12.3" curved |
| V2L | No | Yes (3.6kW) |
The Model Y's 854L boot is 74% larger than the EV6's 490L. This is a massive practical advantage for families. The EV6's dual curved screens and ambient lighting create a more premium cabin atmosphere, and V2L lets you power camping gear, power tools, or even a small fridge from the car.
True Cost to Own
The Model Y is cheaper to buy and run. The EV6's 7-year warranty is its strongest ownership advantage.
| 5-Year Cost | Model Y LR | EV6 LR AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Driveaway | $69,500 | $76,500 |
| 5yr Electricity | $3,488 | $3,870 |
| 5yr Insurance | $11,000 | $10,500 |
| 5yr Servicing | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Resale (est.) | -$33,000 | -$34,500 |
| True 5yr Cost | $52,988 | $58,870 |
The Model Y is $5,882 cheaper over 5 years. The lower purchase price is the biggest factor. The EV6's 7-year warranty covers you for 3 extra years vs Tesla's 4-year warranty, which is worth considering for the complex electric powertrain. Kia also has a more traditional dealer service network.
Charging Networks
Tesla's Supercharger network is the most extensive and reliable in Australia. The EV6 uses CCS charging (the universal standard) and can use any CCS fast charger. Tesla has opened some Superchargers to non-Tesla vehicles, but coverage varies by location.
The EV6's 18-minute 10-80% charge time is the fastest of any EV in this price range. On a multi-stop road trip, faster charging adds up to significant time savings.
Use our Speed vs Range calculator to see how speed affects range for both cars.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Model Y if: You want more range, more boot space, more power, a lower price, and rely on the Supercharger network. The practical choice for families.
Buy the EV6 if: You value faster charging, V2L capability, a 7-year warranty, and prefer a more conventional dealer experience with a premium-feeling cabin.
The Verdict
The Model Y wins on range (49km more), efficiency, boot space (854L vs 490L), power, and price ($6,690 cheaper). The EV6 counters with faster charging (18 vs 27 min 10-80%), V2L capability, a 7-year warranty (vs 4), and 800V architecture. For most Australian families, the Model Y is the better all-round package. The EV6 is better for road trippers who need fast charging stops and buyers who value the longer Kia warranty.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (3 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. All opinions are editorial and independent. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 3 April 2026
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