The Hyundai Ioniq 5 received a larger battery pack with its April 2026 update, resulting in a higher claimed single-charge range. In this feature, we compare the Hyundai EV with the Tesla Model Y, one of its direct rivals in India. Keep reading to see how the two performed in real world conditions. We also compare their prices, as the Ioniq 5 has become more expensive after the update, while Tesla has dropped the price of the Model Y.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model Y: Specifications, price
The Ioniq 5's battery size has increased from 72.6kWh to 84kWh (gross capacity), though the nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cell chemistry has been retained. The larger battery has increased the kerb weight to 2,165kg, up by 150kg from the outgoing version. In comparison, the Model Y uses a 64kWh (gross capacity) battery with lithium ferrous phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry; the smaller battery contributes to the Tesla EV being 162kg lighter in this comparison. Their claimed range figures are based on different test cycles - ARAI for the Ioniq 5 and WLTP for the Model Y - so they are not directly comparable.
Speaking of motor outputs, the Model Y makes 70hp and 70Nm more than the Ioniq 5; both use a rear-wheel-drive setup. The Model Y feels stronger to drive, with quicker acceleration and sharper throttle response than the Hyundai.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model Y: Real-world range
For our real-world range test, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 was driven in Eco mode and the Model Y in Chill mode (Eco in Tesla speak). The Ioniq 5 used Level 2 regenerative braking in the city and Level 1 on the highway, while the Model Y used Standard in the city and Reduced on the highway.
In the city, the Ioniq 5 returned 6.22km/kWh, compared to 5.84km/kWh for the Model Y. On the highway, however, the Tesla was more efficient at 6.52km/kWh, aided by its superior aerodynamics; the Ioniq 5 managed 5.71km/kWh. But overall range in our tests stood at 501km for the Ioniq 5, 130km more than the Model Y's 371km figure.
What community is saying on the Ioniq 5?
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model Y: Prices
At the time of writing, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is pricier than the Tesla Model Y by Rs 4.82 lakh. But judged purely on its higher real-world range, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets our vote.
Autocar India's range testing
For our real-world range comparisons, we begin with each car’s battery fully charged and tyre pressures set as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. We drive the cars on a fixed loop covering both city and highway stretches while maintaining set average speeds. We then calculate the range based on the percentage of charge consumed. The AC is set to 22deg C in auto mode, and we use features such as the music system, lights and ventilated seats as needed, just as a regular user would. This approach ensures consistency and gives a clear idea of what to expect in actual conditions.
Ex-showroom prices mentioned above are as of September 23, 2026.
Glenn Noronha
Dipan Sur
