The Tesla Model Y has set the standards for a compact electric SUV for a while now. Facing stiff competition off late, here’s how the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y go up vs the new kid on the block – the Hyundai Ioniq 5 – an EV that has taken the market by storm in places like the USA, Europe, and even India. Now that it has been launched in the UAE market, here’s how UAE market specific Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 comparison.
Available Trim Levels
The first point where the Model Y and Model 3 score over the Ioniq 5 in the UAE market currently is the availability of trim levels. It’s weird to know that the Ioniq 5 is currently available in just the single motor configuration in a fully specced-out trim. However, this was somewhat along expected lines as Hyundai’s UAE distributor is known for taking a conservative approach while introducing new vehicles.
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On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 are available in two configurations. There is not only a standard single-motor configuration that goes up squarely against the Ioniq but also a dual-motor configuration in two iterations that allows potential buyers to pick and choose options that suit them the best.
Vehicle | Tesla Model 3/Y | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
Battery size | 50-82 kWh | 58 kWh |
Motor type | Single or Dual | Single |
Range | 510 Km – 629 Km | 350 Km |
Available Features
When it comes to the feature set, especially in terms of the interior the Ioniq wins the race by a mile. In typical Hyundai fashion, the cabin is well-loaded with twin displays as seen on other stablemates that seem to be inspired by Mercedes-Benz. The highlight of the cabin in the Ioniq is the cluster that controls the AC settings which can also be toggled to control the music-related settings at the touch of a button.
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On the other hand, the Model Y and Model 3 look fairly bare-bones. Apart from a central display, there isn’t anything else in the vehicle. But the screen in itself is known to provide not only entertainment but can also be used for controlling driving parameters. However, the lack of a speedometer is a sore point in itself.
Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 Price Comparison in UAE
The Tesla twins come out on top again in this round. This is largely due to the conservative approach of Hyundai Middle East – who are in turn looking to test the waters for now. With the Model 3 prices starting at 175,000 AED for the single motor variants, the Ioniq5 will have its task cut out. At 190,000 AED the Ioniq is indeed going to be a tough sell, more so in front of a brand that has been in the EV market space for more than two decades now.
Also what puts the Ioniq 5 behind is the fact that at 205,000 AED the Tesla twins get a dual motor setup with a bigger battery that provides way more range than the Hyundai. Thus Tesla has really covered its ground in terms of providing the best possible options for its buyers.
Vehicle | Tesla Model 3/Y | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
Base Price | 175,000 AED | nil |
Top Spec Price | 235,000 AED | 190,000 AED |
Available Trims | 3 | 1 |
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What I Think
To begin with, the two brands are really different in terms of making electric vehicles. Hyundai by being a legacy car maker will try to ensure that the overall experience of the Ioniq is going to be very similar to their IC-engined counterparts. On the other hand, Tesla is trying to disrupt the market with its tech-laden vehicles.
Since both are EVs, the warranty on the battery and motor is going to be similar – that is around 8 years or 160,000 Km. And even though its Hyundai’s attempt at a proper EV with an all-new platform, the overall experience is expected to be a lot more smoother as compared to the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. More so at a time when Tesla-related complaints can be seen regularly. If I were to choose a vehicle if the Tesla Model 3 went up vs the Hyundai Ioniq, it would most likely be the latter.
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