The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the closest competitor to the Model 3 in the electric sedan market. Both are efficient, aerodynamic sedans with over 300 miles of range, but they appeal to different types of buyers. The Model 3 prioritizes technology and charging infrastructure; the Ioniq 6 emphasizes interior comfort, warranty coverage, and a longer powertrain guarantee.

Price

The 2025 Ioniq 6 SE Standard Range starts at approximately $39,095 — slightly above the Model 3 Standard RWD at $38,630 with destination. The Ioniq 6 SE (full battery, 342 miles) starts around $44,045, comparable to the Model 3 Premium RWD at $44,130. Pricing is nearly identical at equivalent levels.

Range

Both sedans are among the most efficient EVs on sale. The Model 3 Premium RWD leads with 363 miles EPA — the longest range in the Model 3 lineup. The Ioniq 6 SE RWD achieves 342 miles, a respectable figure but 21 miles short of the Tesla.

At the base level, the difference is more dramatic. The Model 3 Standard RWD delivers 321 miles versus the Ioniq 6 SE Standard Range's approximately 240 miles — an 81-mile advantage that reflects the Ioniq 6 SR's smaller battery.

In AWD configurations, the Model 3 Premium AWD offers 346 miles versus the Ioniq 6 SE AWD's approximately 303 miles.

Charging

The Ioniq 6 shares the Ioniq 5's 800-volt architecture, enabling peak charging speeds of up to 320 kW and a claimed 10-80% charge in about 18 minutes under ideal conditions. The Model 3 Premium and Performance trims peak at 250 kW.

The 2025+ Ioniq 6 comes with a NACS port, giving it access to Tesla's Supercharger network. This is a significant development — both cars can now use the same fast-charging infrastructure, though the Ioniq 6 may be limited to lower speeds at some Supercharger stations.

Interior

The Ioniq 6's interior is more conventionally comfortable than the Model 3's. Its seats are designed for long-distance cruising, rear legroom is generous (actually exceeding the Model 3), and material quality is solid throughout. The sloped roofline does reduce rear headroom, however.

The Model 3 Highland's interior is clean and well-built, with good seats and an uncluttered dashboard. Its 24 cubic feet of trunk space significantly exceeds the Ioniq 6's 11.7 cubic feet — one of the Ioniq 6's weakest points. The Ioniq 6's conventional trunk opening limits what you can load, despite reasonable depth.

Technology

The Model 3's software, Autopilot system, and over-the-air update infrastructure are more advanced. Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) can handle city and highway driving autonomously. The Ioniq 6's Highway Driving Assist 2 is capable but less sophisticated.

The Ioniq 6 includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which the Tesla lacks. It also offers a dual-screen setup with a traditional instrument cluster — a layout some drivers prefer to Tesla's single-screen approach.

Warranty

Hyundai's warranty is notably stronger: 5 years / 60,000 miles basic coverage versus Tesla's 4 years / 50,000 miles. Battery warranties are identical at 8 years / 100,000 miles. The Ioniq 6 also ranked highest in its segment in JD Power's 2025 EV Ownership Study.

The Verdict

The Model 3 Premium RWD is the better choice for buyers who prioritize range (363 vs 342 miles), cargo space (24 vs 11.7 cu ft), software and technology, and Tesla's Supercharger network. It's a more complete package at a nearly identical price.

The Ioniq 6 is the right pick if you value a more comfortable highway ride, Apple CarPlay, faster peak DC charging speeds, and a longer warranty. Its rear-seat comfort also edges out the Model 3, and Hyundai's aggressive pricing makes it a strong value proposition.

Explore all Model 3 options: 2026 Model 3 Trim Comparison. Browse the complete Model 3 history: Tesla Model Archive.