Consumer demand for small SUVs seems unmet, and as electrification permeates every corner of the automotive landscape, compact EV SUVs have become the focus of attention. For two years, the Tesla Model Y has led this emerging space with a longer range, advanced driver assistance systems and a proven charging network. But other automakers are offering new alternatives, and the most promising ones may come from Hyundai.
Hyundai unveils the Ioniq 5, the newest addition to the Ioniq family of cars, as its first electric car designed from scratch. It is positioned as an achievable, feature-rich and stylish crossover with powerful range data. Which electric car is the best? Experts at Edmonds compared them to find out.
Charging and range
The Tesla Model Y is equipped with a 75 kWh battery and all-wheel drive for high-performance and remote decoration. The EPA rating for the 2022 Long Range model is 330 miles, although our range tests for the 2021 model (EPA estimated at 326 miles) only returned 317 miles.
For fast charging on the go, Tesla's national network of supercharger stations is unmatched. Ideally, a 30-minute visit can increase the Model Y's battery from 10% to 80%.
Hyundai offers the Ioniq 5 with three trims with two battery packs. The rear-wheel-drive 77 kWh model has a range of 303 miles, but the more comparable all-wheel-drive version of the EPA is rated at 256 miles. Range tests of the Edmunds showed a more impressive range of 270 miles.
Hyundai can't match Tesla's supercharger network, so owners will need to rely on third parties for DC fast charging, such as Electrify America or ChargePoint. However, the Ioniq 5 is compatible with the latest 350 kW chargers and can increase the Ioniq's battery level from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. Both SUVs have plenty of range for most buyers, but the Model Y's advantages in maximum range and charging availability make it a winner.
Winner: Y-type
Comfortable and stylish
Tesla may push the limits of battery and drive technology, but it's one of the most conservative automakers when it comes to styling. The Model Y can easily be confused with the larger Model X or the smaller Model 3, confusing its visual appeal. Inside, the story is more sober, with only a 15-inch screen and a steering wheel adorning the instrument panel. Faux leather seats are comfortable on long journeys, although Tesla doesn't offer seat ventilation to cool you down on hot days.
The modern Ioniq 5 competes with its distinctive retro vibe of the 1980s hatchback. From pixel-designed lights to avant-garde panels, the Ioniq 5 is worth a look. Inside, there is an adjustable open layout and intuitive interaction of physical and touch-sensitive controls. Plush faux leather seats with heating and ventilation combined with well-damped suspension make the ride comfortable. Unlike the noisy Model Y cabin, the Ioniq 5 is very quiet in motion.
Winner: Ioniq 5
Security & Technology
Model Y's outstanding infotainment screens boast excellent resolution and instant responsiveness. It can also run apps like Netflix, YouTube, or games when parked. Alas, Tesla doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, so drivers can't fully integrate their smartphones to reduce distractions. There is no instrument cluster in the Model Y, and the driver must take his eyes off the road to see speed and range. Tesla does offer a "fully autonomous" driver assistance model that costs $12,000 more, but according to our tests, it's not worth the incremental cost at this point.
With a reconfigurable digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen, the modern cabin will feel more familiar to most shoppers. Common settings, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, steering wheel adjustments, are easier to access. While not as comprehensive as Tesla, modern driver assistance devices work well to reduce fatigue from long journeys.
What else do you want: Tesla's commitment to innovation or modern intuitive design? For us, it was a toss-up.
Value and guarantees
The 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range is cheaper than the Performance model, including destinations, and priced at $60,190. Tesla has exhausted its federal tax credits, so buyers must rely on state incentives to save money on paper. The average warranty period for this segment is 4 years/50,000 miles basic and 8 years/120,000 miles of battery coverage.
The modern Ioniq 5 offers more interior and powertrain configurations. The all-wheel-drive Ioniq 5 SEL, which is comparable to the Long Range, is priced at $50,645 before considering the $7,500 tax credit. Hyundai's warranty coverage also outperforms Tesla. You'll get 5 years/60,000 miles of basic and 10 years/100,000 miles of battery coverage.
The 2022 Tesla Model Y has advantages in terms of range and charging network, but the modern Ioniq 5 is a more refined product with both style and connotation. The winner here is Ioniq 5.