2023 Hyundai Kona EV vs 2023 Tesla Model 3

There was a time when comparing a Hyundai to a Tesla would have been a surprise. However, Hyundai has moved boldly into electric vehicle territory with its Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the 2023 Hyundai Kona EV.

1. What’s New for 2023?

   The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is part of the second generation of Konas. Introduced in 2017, the EV came to the US in 2018 in limited numbers. Since then, the Kona has become a major player in the small SUV marketplace. The Kona Hybrid has been discontinued with the arrival of the more affordable Kona Electric.

   Trim levels changed slightly but will still sound familiar to most shoppers. SE, SEL, and Limited models of the electric vehicle are available.

   Kona EV prices start at $33,550, making it one of the least expensive electric vehicles you can buy in the United States. When it reaches the Limited, at a starting price of around $41,550, it overlaps with the Tesla Model 3 in pricing.

   When it comes to the standard range model, Tesla Model 3 prices have come down. This causes overlap with the Kona Electric at the lowest price. RWD Model 3 cars are offered at a starting price of $39,990, according to Kelley Blue Book. To get the long range or performance model, prices immediately jump by $10,000 or more.

2. How Much Will It Cost to Operate?

   The average power cost for the Tesla Model 3 RWD edition is projected at about $550 yearly. Kona EV owners can expect about $600 yearly. Either way, these electric vehicles represent a massive savings over gas-powered vehicles.

   In fact, the Car Connection puts the Hyundai electric crossover at the top of the gas-powered class. Long-term affordability is a major reason. It earns a whopping 134 mpge in the city. Plus Hyundai is offering complimentary roadside charging.

   By comparison, the Tesla Model 3 is rated at 138 mpg city. The Long Range Model 3 earns 134 mpge and the Performance trim earns 118 mpge. However, few shoppers qualify for free charging when purchasing a Tesla.

3. How Reliable are the Kona EV and Tesla Model 3?

   When it comes to reliability, Hyundais get good scores from reviewers and owners. This is evidenced by its JD Power scores, including top marks for three of its vehicles. RepairPal ranks Hyundai #4 out of 32 brands. Consumer Reports ranks the brand at #6 out of 26.

   Meanwhile the Model 3 has been criticized for a lack of consistency that leads to problems. This quality problem has caused it to rank about number 19 out of 24 at Consumer Reports.

   JD Power Dependability Studies saw Hyundai with a score of 168 while Tesla had a score of 242. This gave Hyundai an official ranking of #7 with Tesla at about #28 out of 32.

4. What are the Long Term Ownership Considerations?

   Hyundais have one of the best warranties on the market. This means that it can beat the Tesla for powertrain coverage. In fact, Hyundai also adds an extra year to Tesla bumper-to-bumper coverage and roadside assistance.

   At this point, there is still a big gap in available repair shops for Tesla vehicles vs Hyundais. For one thing, Hyundai has 835 dealerships in the United States. The EV-only company has about 130 stores. This leads to long waits for powertrain or body repairs for Tesla owners.

   

   The more mainstream Hyundai also provides scheduled maintenance with a purchase. This gives the Kona EV owner up to three years of no-cost services, such as tire rotations.

5. How Powerful is the EV?

   With an estimated 271 horsepower, the Tesla Model 3 has a lead over the Kona EV. However, the Hyundai electric crossover is very competitive. It generates 201 horsepower and as much as 295 lb-ft of torque. Model 3 torque is estimated at 310 lb-ft.

   According to multiple critics, the Hyundai EV has plenty of power. In fact, it tends to have more power than the gas-powered class. This makes it fun to drive.

   Konas are front-wheel drive vehicles while the Model 3 is a rear-wheel model with all-wheel drive on its more potent powertrains.

6. What is One-Pedal Driving?

   As electric vehicles, both the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Kona EV utilize regenerative braking. This system recaptures energy from the braking process and shifts it to charge the battery.

   With the related one-pedal driving capability, drivers can lift off the accelerator pedal to trigger braking. Once stopped, the car holds the brake position until the driver touches the accelerator again.

   

   One-pedal driving is definitely about ease of use. However, it’s also about keeping the burden light on your brakes. This feature reduces wear and tear, helping brakes last longer.

7. How Far Can the Kona EV and Tesla Model 3 Go on One Charge?

   Tesla has been touted for its driving range. In this case, the Model 3 can claim 272 miles. This is actually very close to the electric range of the Kona EV. Hyundai electric crossovers can go 258 miles.

   If you want more driving range, you can get that with Tesla, but that brings up the $10,000 or more price difference.

   Charging is fast for both vehicles. Overnight, the Hyundai can reach a full charge in about 9 hours, 15 minutes. The Tesla Wall Connector charges the Model 3 in about ten to 12 hours.

8. Is Roadside Charging Free for Hyundai or Tesla?

   Tesla has given buyers free roadside charging, but it has been years since it did so consistently. Now it generally saves that for sales promotions.

   Hyundai offers three years of complimentary roadside charging. Kona EV drivers can use the credits at Electrify America Stations.

9. How does EV Dash Tech Compare?

   Every Kona Electric has a digital instrument screen as well as a touchscreen. This means it has up to 22 inches of configurable screens that stretch behind the steering wheel and sit beside it. Plus there are buttons and dials to augment it.

   

   Tesla has few tactile buttons. It uses a 15.1-inch tablet to control the vehicle. This system lacks many of the features we expect today, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

10. Does the Kona Electric Have Advanced Features?

    The less expensive Kona EV has some amenities found on the more expensive Tesla Model 3. This includes a driver’s power chair, automatic climate controls, and heated front seats.

    The Model 3 also has a wireless charger, a digital key, and synthetic leather upholstery. However, still saving money, the Kona EV shopper can step up to the SEL to get the Hyundai Digital Key. Shoppers can select the Kona EV Limited with leather upholstery and front ventilated seats instead of choosing the Model 3 with its second-row heated seats at around the same price.

    There are numerous standard driver aids on both vehicles. Hyundai includes its most advanced blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, forward collision warning, pedestrian watch, and lane departure warning. These features include steering assists or emergency autobraking, depending on the situation.

    If Hyundai shoppers want semi-automated travel, they can get it for less with the Kona EV’s Highway Driving Assist. Tesla automation, when available, really pushes up the price of the Model 3.

Conclusion

Whether it’s to save money or to get the best vehicle for the price, the 2023 Hyundai Kona EV is definitely the one to pick over the Tesla Model 3.

You’ll find it at your North Scottsdale Hyundai dealer. Schedule a test drive.