2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs. Tesla Model Y: Clash of EV Titans

The IONIQ 5 and Model Y are two excellent midsize electric SUVs. However, they cater to different needs. One offers more driving range, but the other charges faster. One has more potent power, while the other offers a longer warranty. If you’re choosing between the two, you should take the time to compare them according to your own priorities. To help you decide, we’ve put together this guide comparing the two SUVs.

What’s New for 2026

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 still looks similar to the previous generation, but there are some changes. It has a larger 84 kWh battery pack and an EPA-estimated range of 318 miles. It also adds a NACS charging port, in addition to the standard CCS adapter.

Hyundai adds a rugged XRT trim, which includes all-terrain tires and different bumpers. Every trim comes with new front and rear bumpers, a larger rear spoiler, and a rear windshield wiper. Inside, the wireless charging pad has moved to the top panel, and new buttons control the heated seats and heated steering wheel. An upgraded lane-keep assist system and a side-impact collision avoidance feature are also new.

The 2025 Tesla Model Y sees fewer changes to the model year. The only major change is that the standard range battery is no longer available.

Performance Analysis

Let’s compare the performance of each vehicle side by side.

The IONIQ 5 has an electric powertrain with multiple battery options. The standard-range battery with its single rear-mounted electric motor produces 168 horsepower. With the longer-range battery, the rear-wheel drive (RWD) setup produces 225 horsepower, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model pushes 320 horsepower.

The Model Y lineup includes a Long Range RWD trim with a single motor producing 295 horsepower. The Model Y’s Long Range AWD and Performance models have two motors. Comparing the two, the Hyundai is also the faster of the two with a shorter 0-to-60 mph sprint time.

Range and Efficiency

The Hyundai batteries have a more powerful 800-volt system vs. the Tesla’s nominal 400-volt system. With the standard 63 kWh battery, the IONIQ can provide 245 miles of all-electric range. With the larger 84 kWh pack, it’s estimated to provide 318 miles with the single-motor RWD powertrain. AWD models, with the larger pack, are estimated at 259-290 miles of range. Hyundai says the larger battery can charge from 10%-80% in around 20 minutes and add 68 miles in five minutes.

The Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD models are estimated to offer up to 337 miles on a single charge. The Long Range AWD can provide up to 311 miles of range, while the Performance model range drops to 277 miles.

When comparing range and efficiency, the Model Y Long Range has the edge in estimated range. However, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 charges faster, thanks to its 800-volt system. The Hyundai is also more fuel-efficient than the Tesla. Both now support Tesla Supercharger stations, increasing charging flexibility for IONIQ 5 owners.

Interior and Cargo

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has a retro and almost futuristic look. It has an airy cabin, a sliding center console, and a user-friendly dual screen with physical climate controls. The Model Y is minimalist to the core. It has a single central touch screen and very few physical buttons. It’s modern but perhaps less intuitive to some drivers.

When it comes to cargo capacity, both models have generous space. The IONIQ 5 has 26 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat or 59 cubic feet in total, and its completely flat floor provides maximum passenger and cargo space. The Model Y has 29 cubic feet behind the rear and up to 76.2 cubic feet in total.

Comfort Features and Passenger Experience

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 comes with heated seats and steering wheel, fantastic legroom, and reclining front seats with footrests. The Model Y comes with a superior sound system, a large glass roof, and roomy rear seating, yet some find the seats firmer and ride comfort stiffer in prior versions, but models do address this.

Technology and Connectivity

The IONIQ 5 comes with two 12-inch screens, including a touch screen and a digital gauge cluster. It also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, advanced navigation, and a head-up display. The Model Y has a 15-inch touch screen with Tesla’s slick OS but lacks smartphone mirroring. Over-the-air software updates and robust app integration are still major pluses.

Safety and Assistance Features

The IONIQ 5 features Highway Driving Assist 2. It includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and available adaptive cruise control with a lane centering feature.

The Model Y has Tesla’s partial self-driving features, which are innovative but still too new for regulatory approval. Basic Autopilot includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with a lane centering feature.

Warranty Coverage for Hyundai IONIQ 5 Tesla Model Y

Hyundai offers one of the best warranty plans in the industry: a five-year basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000 miles battery and powertrain warranty. Complimentary maintenance is included for three years or 36,000 miles.

Tesla’s warranty is competitive but shorter. It includes a four-year/50,000 miles basic warranty and an eight-year/120,000 miles warranty for the battery and electric motors. No complimentary scheduled maintenance is available.

Factors To Consider

Choose the Hyundai IONIQ 5 if you:

• Want a lower price and higher value for features
• Want faster charging
• Prefer traditional controls
• Want a longer basic and battery warranty for peace of mind

Choose the Tesla Model Y if you:

• Want maximum driving range
• Want to test autonomous driving
• Prefer minimalist interiors

Making an Informed Decision

When comparing the Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs. Tesla Model Y, it’s clear to see that both are excellent options. But deciding which is best will be a personal choice, so a test-drive can be helpful. That way, you can get a feel for how these EVs perform and explore the battery and range in person. Ready to test-drive the Hyundai IONIQ 5? Visit us at Titus-Will Hyundai in Olympia, Washington, today.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »