The Tesla Model Y and facelifted Kia EV6 both joined the entry-level luxury EV segment in 2025, and they’re priced quite close to each other as well. However, which of them travels the longest distance on a single charge in the real world? We put the EV6 GT Line AWD and Model Y Long Range RWD through our fastidious real-world tests to find out.
Do note that the Model Y we've tested is the pre-update model with a claimed ARAI-range of 622km. Tesla updated the Model Y RWD in India last October with a greater claimed range of 661km. This comes courtesy of a larger 84.2kWh battery, up from the original India-spec Model Y's 78.1kWh unit.
Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV6 specifications and price
EV6 has a bigger battery and AWD, and is more powerful
Not only is the EV6 more affordable by almost Rs 3 lakh, the Kia EV’s battery pack also outsizes that of the Model Y by 6kWh. Additionally, the EV6 comes with a dual-motor (AWD) setup that outputs 26hp and 195Nm more than the Model Y does.
Claimed Model Y range is 40km higher
While the stronger powertrain bodes well for performance, feeding power to twice the number of motors and a higher kerb weight do result in the EV6 sporting a lower WLTP-certified range than that of the Model Y. As we’re about to find out, though, this delta doesn’t quite carry over in real-world conditions.
Explore a detailed comparison of prices, specs, and features between the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6.
Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV6 real world range
EV6 real-world range is higher across the board
In city conditions, the EV6 GT manages to pull a 10km lead over the Model Y Long Range. Out on the highway, the gap between them widens by 60km in the Kia’s favour – a considerable 12 percent lead over the Tesla EV. All told, the EV6 GT yielded a 35km higher average real-world range than that of the Model Y in our tests, which belies the Kia EV’s 40km deficit in the WLTP figures.
Autocar India’s range testing
Before our real-world range tests, the battery of our test car was fully charged, and we maintained tyre pressures in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. The car was driven on a weekday in Mumbai city and on the adjoining state highway in a fixed loop, and we maintained the set average speeds. At the end of each cycle, we calculated the range based on the percentage charge consumed.
Throughout our tests, the climate control was set to 22deg C in a full-auto setting, and other electricals, such as the audio system, indicators and ventilated front seats, were used when required, just as a regular user would. We take pride in our testing data, which isn’t merely consistent but also gives users an accurate indication of what they can expect in the real world.
Dipan Sur
Uday Singh
Saptarshi Mondal
