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The Tesla Model 3 got its much-anticipated update in 2024. And it remains the cheapest option in the California-based electric vehicle (EV) marque’s lineup. But it’s not without its competition. That’s right; a viable alternative to the Model 3 is already here. Enter the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6, a more affordable option with a better warranty.

The Tesla Model 3 might be your best bet for an entry-level EV with a domestic badge, but the Hyundai IONIQ 6 has its number

The 2024 “Highland” Tesla Model 3 promises as much as 341 miles of single-charge range. Choose performance over range, and the Model 3 Performance will launch you to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. At least, that’s Tesla’s assertion for its most ballistic Model 3 offering. Still, therein lies the crux of it all: it’s 2024. The Model 3 isn’t without competition. 

Here comes the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 with love-it-or-hate-it styling and EV credentialing to take on Tesla’s beloved base model. Better yet, with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated 361 miles of maximum range at the SE Long Range RWD trim, the IONIQ 6 has the legs to challenge the baby Tesla. 

By contrast, the Model 3 Long Range will cover an estimated 341 miles with a single charge. However, drivers will have a bear of a time attempting to recreate those numbers. Moreover, the base model 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 starts at around $38,900. That makes the electrified Hyundai one of the few new EVs under the $40,000 mark.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 trim levelStarting price
SE Standard Range$38,900
SE Long Range$43,850
SEL$46,650
Limited$52,150

However, at $40,380, the Tesla Model 3 Standard doesn’t just flirt with that daunting $40,000 mark, it passes it altogether. Additionally, with a dual-motor Long Range and neck-snapping Performance model available, it’s all too easy to push the Model 3 to well over $55,000. Furthermore, the Model 3’s four-year, 50,000-mile basic warranty is short of the IONIQ 6’s coverage by a year and 10,000 miles.

A black Hyundai IONIQ 6 cruising on city streets.
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 | Hyundai

Still, don’t expect to get anywhere quicker than your boastful neighbor in their “you can’t believe just how fast this thing is” Model 3 Performance. Tesla claims the performance-oriented trim level and its 510-horsepower, all-wheel drive (AWD) application will smash a sprint to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Rarified air indeed.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).