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Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV3 comparison

Compare performance (460 HP vs 265 HP), boot space and price (34,300 £ vs 40,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Tesla Model Y or Kia EV3?

Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV3: Key differences

Tesla Model Y

4.5 (5 Reviews)
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  • moderately cheaper
  • considerably more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • barely more electric range
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly lighter
  • significantly more trunk space
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Kia EV3

4.6 (5 Reviews)
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Model Y

Quick take: Kia EV3 VS Tesla Model Y — two very different answers to the same brief

Kia EV3 and Tesla Model Y both pitch themselves as practical electric SUVs, but they aim at different priorities: the EV3 emphasizes everyday usability and calm long-distance cruising, while the Model Y pushes efficiency, space and tech. In short, the EV3 feels like a well-mannered, no-nonsense family car built around sensible packaging; the Model Y feels like a high-tech tool that happens to be roomy and very economical on the road. Buyers comparing Kia EV3 VS Tesla Model Y should expect a trade-off between tactile, familiar ergonomics and aggressive software-driven convenience. This page teases the real-world consequences of that trade-off before you dive into the numbers. Expect the detail section to show where cabin comfort, charging behaviour and luggage space tilt the decision one way or the other.

EV3

Character and driving feel: relaxed cruiser versus eager, techy performer

The Kia EV3 leans toward a relaxed, comfort-first character that rewards steady cruising and everyday calm rather than spirited driving; steering and suspension are tuned for predictability. By contrast, the Tesla Model Y presents a more alert personality — quicker off the line and more confident on the motorway — which translates to brisk overtakes and a feeling of effortless pace. That eagerness in the Model Y comes with a firmer ride and a more mechanical, taut steering sensation, while the EV3 soaks up bumps and resists being provoked into drama. For drivers who value relaxed composure and measured responses, the EV3 is the natural fit; for those who want performance and razor-sharp motorway manners, the Model Y is more satisfying.

Model Y

Cabin comfort and perceived quality: traditional ergonomics vs minimalist tech

Inside, the Kia EV3 offers a straightforward layout with physical controls, a high seating position and good outward visibility that feel familiar and easy to live with day-to-day. The Tesla Model Y doubles down on touchscreen control and software polish, delivering a quieter cabin and a more modern material mix after recent updates, but at the cost of tactile buttons and a steeper learning curve. The EV3’s materials trade some premium feel for pragmatic durability, while the Model Y’s upgrades lift perceived quality but keep a minimalist, screen-centered ergonomics that not everyone will embrace. If you prefer knobs and a conventional cockpit, the EV3 will soothe you; if you enjoy constant feature growth and an app-led experience, the Model Y will feel more advanced.

EV3

Practicality and family usability: clever packaging versus outright space

Practicality is a strong suit for both cars, but they approach it differently: the Kia EV3 focuses on smart, everyday use with a variable load floor, useful frunk space and wide rear doors that make child seats and luggage effortless. The Tesla Model Y answers with sheer volume — more rear legroom, a very deep and accessible boot and additional underfloor storage that make it better for taller passengers and bulky loads. Rear-seat comfort diverges too: the EV3’s higher floor can mean slightly angled knees for taller adults, whereas the Model Y gives real space to stretch out on longer journeys. Families who prioritise loading flexibility and easy access will like the EV3’s thought-through details, while those needing maximum cabin and boot space will prefer the Model Y’s packaging.

Model Y

City friendliness and long-distance behaviour: nimble urban life vs stress-free touring

In town, the Kia EV3’s compact manoeuvrability and strong visibility make parking and tight turns easier than the larger Model Y, which can feel less at home in narrow streets and tight garages because of its bigger footprint. On long trips the balance shifts: the Tesla Model Y’s low real-world consumption and access to an extensive fast‑charging network make multi-leg journeys simpler and quicker, while the EV3’s respectable range and comfortable ride are excellent if you plan fewer, longer stops and can accept slightly slower high-power charging. The EV3’s calm highway demeanour is reassuring, but frequent rapid recharges or tight timetable travel benefit more from the Model Y’s charging and efficiency advantages. Choose EV3 for urban ease with relaxed touring, choose Model Y for stress-free long-distance runs and rapid recharge convenience.

EV3

Buyer fit: who should choose which car and why

If you value conventional ergonomics, a roomy but cleverly packaged boot, easy city driving and a composed highway ride, the Kia EV3 suits commuters, small families and cost-conscious buyers who want everyday comfort and sensible equipment. If your priority is the lowest possible running cost on long drives, maximum rear legroom, fast public charging convenience and a tech-forward ownership experience, the Tesla Model Y aligns better with frequent long-distance drivers, larger families and tech-minded buyers. Both cars cover lots of ground well, but the decision hinges on whether you want the EV3’s pragmatic, user-friendly temperament or the Model Y’s efficiency, space and software ecosystem. Read on to the technical comparison to see how these real-world differences map to charging, range and performance details.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Model Y

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Tesla Model Y is moderately cheaper – starting at 34,300 £ , while the Kia EV3 costs 40,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,905 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Tesla Model Y is clearly more efficient: consuming 13.1 kWh/100km compared to 15.8 kWh/100km for the Kia EV3. That’s a difference of about 2.7 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Tesla Model Y offers barely more range – reaching up to 622 km, about 50 km more than the Kia EV3.

EV3

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Tesla Model Y offers considerably more power – delivering 460 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 195 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Tesla Model Y is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.5 s, while the Kia EV3 takes 6.6 s. That’s about 3.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Tesla Model Y delivers considerably more torque with 660 Nm compared to 385 Nm. That’s about 275 Nm more.

Model Y

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Tesla Model Y offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Tesla Model Y is only slightly lighter – 1,976 kg compared to 1,995 kg. The difference is around 19 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Tesla Model Y offers significantly more boot space – 836 L compared to 413 L. That’s a difference of about 423 L.

When it comes to payload, the Kia EV3 carries barely more – 485 kg compared to 472 kg. That’s a difference of about 13 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Tesla Model Y is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £34,300
Model Y

Tesla Model Y

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 299 - 460 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 13.1 - 16.2 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 534 - 622 km
Tesla Model Y
Kia EV3

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that pairs practical interior space with a minimalist, tech-forward cabin that feels modern and airy. Its confident electric performance and suite of driver-assist features make everyday driving effortless, and regular software updates help the car stay fresh over time.

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Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is a stylish, user-friendly electric crossover that focuses on practicality and a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It delivers a comfortable ride with intuitive technology and efficient everyday performance, making it a sensible choice for city and family use.

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Tesla Model Y
Kia EV3

Costs and Consumption

Price
34,300 - 53,100 £
Price
40,200 - 43,900 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
13.1 - 16.2 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 kWh/100km
Electric Range
534 - 622 km
Electric Range
572 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5 - 7
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,976 - 2,108 kg
Curb weight
1,995 kg
Trunk capacity
822 - 836 L
Trunk capacity
413 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,920 mm
Width
1,850 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
435 - 472 kg
Payload
485 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
299 - 460 HP
Power HP
265 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 7.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
420 - 660 Nm
Torque
385 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
220 - 338 kW
Power kW
195 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Tesla
Brand
Kia
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.