2025 Kia EV6 vs Model Y: Is Tesla Finally in Trouble?
When the Tesla Model Y launched, it shook up the electric SUV segment by delivering class-leading range, performance, and tech. But the 2025 Kia EV6 is here, and it’s not playing catch-up — it’s playing to win. With competitive pricing, rapid-charging capabilities, and bold design, Kia’s EV6 is making waves across Canada, especially in Ottawa where Kia 417 is leading the charge.
If you’ve been shopping electric or asking, “Should I get a Tesla or a Kia EV6?” — this blog breaks it down in the most honest, data-backed way possible.
1. Price Comparison: EV6 Hits Hard Below the Belt
| Model | Starting Price (CAD) | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Kia EV6 Light RWD | $51,995 | $42,600 |
| Tesla Model Y RWD | $57,990 | $44,990 |
The 2025 Kia EV6 undercuts the Model Y significantly in Canada. Even with government EV incentives (up to $5,000 CAD federal iZEV rebate), the price gap still makes the EV6 more accessible.
2. Driving Range & Charging: Closer Than You Think
| Model | Max Range (km / mi) | DC Fast Charging Time (10-80%) |
| Kia EV6 Long Range AWD | 499 km / 310 mi | 18 minutes (800V) |
| Tesla Model Y Long Range | 531 km / 330 mi | 27 minutes (250kW) |
Yes, the Model Y edges out in range — but the EV6’s 800-volt charging architecture blows Tesla away on speed. With the right charger, you can get from 10 to 80% in under 20 minutes.
3. Interior & Tech: Kia Goes Premium
Kia EV6 GT Interior 
Kia has stepped up the cabin game. The EV6 offers:
- Twin 12.3″ curved screens
- Augmented reality HUD
- Sustainable suede & vegan leather
- Intuitive physical buttons + haptic feedback
Tesla, on the other hand, has stripped down its interior to the bare minimum — no gauge cluster, no physical controls. For some, it’s modern. For others? A dealbreaker.
Tech Advantage:
- Tesla’s software is slick, yes. But Kia’s onboard navigation, voice assistant, and remote smart parking (GT-Line and GT trims) are highly competitive.
Explore Kia EV6 specials in Ottawa
TEST DRIVE THE 2025 KIA EVs4. Performance: Kia Has Surprises
| Model | 0–100 km/h | Horsepower | Drivetrain |
| Kia EV6 GT | 3.5 seconds | 576 hp | AWD |
| Tesla Model Y Performance | 3.7 seconds | 455 hp | AWD |
The Kia EV6 GT is a sleeper. With near-supercar acceleration, it beats the Model Y Performance off the line. If speed matters, Tesla’s not the only game in town anymore.
5. Practicality: Cargo & Comfort
| Feature | Kia EV6 | Tesla Model Y |
| Cargo Capacity | 690L rear / 1,300L total | 854L rear / 2,158L total |
| Seating | 5 adults | 5 adults (7 optional) |
| Rear Visibility | Narrow (sports styling) | Clear (SUV form) |
Tesla offers more cargo room and optional third-row seating. The EV6 is more coupe-like — a style play that sacrifices a bit of space for aggressive aesthetics.
6. Reliability & Build Quality
Kia is known for improving year-over-year. The EV6 is assembled with tight fit and finish, and its 5-year / 100,000 km warranty (compared to Tesla’s 4-year / 80,000 km) offers more peace of mind for new EV buyers.
7. Safety Ratings & ADAS Features
Kia EV6:
- Highway Driving Assist 2
- Lane follow assist
- Blind-spot view monitor
- Surround view monitor
Tesla Model Y:
- Autopilot (standard)
- Full Self-Driving (optional $19,500 CAD / $12,000 USD)
Reality Check: Tesla’s FSD is still in beta and doesn’t meet Canadian autonomous driving regulations. Kia’s suite is certified and compliant.
8. Ownership Costs & Charging Infrastructure
| Cost Factor | Kia EV6 | Tesla Model Y |
| Home Charger (L2) | $1,000–$1,500 CAD | $1,000–$1,500 CAD |
| Charging Network | Flo, ChargePoint, Petro-Canada, etc. | Tesla Supercharger + others (now open to non-Teslas) |
| Avg. Cost to Charge (full) | ~$12 CAD (home) | ~$13 CAD (home) |
Thanks to federal and provincial grants, both brands are equally affordable to charge. But Kia’s EV6 is compatible with more public stations out of the box, giving it a real-world edge.
9. Warranty & Support: Kia Wins
| Warranty Type | Kia EV6 | Tesla Model Y |
| Basic Vehicle | 5 yrs / 100,000 km | 4 yrs / 80,000 km |
| Battery | 8 yrs / 160,000 km | 8 yrs / 192,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yrs | 4 yrs (US only) |
Kia also includes trip interruption benefits and service plans through local dealerships — something Tesla lacks with its centralized service model.
Final Verdict: Is Tesla in Trouble?
For the first time in years, the Tesla Model Y has a real rival that not only matches it but beats it in price, performance, and overall value.
If you’re an Ottawa driver considering your next electric SUV, the 2025 Kia EV6 is the smarter buy — especially with active EV6 specials and inventory at Kia 417.
Kia 417 is your go-to dealership for test drives, incentives, financing, and the best deals on Kia EVs in the city.
Contact us today to book your test drive or get pre-approved.
FAQ: 2025 Kia EV6 vs. Tesla Model Y
1. Is the Kia EV6 better than the Tesla Model Y? The EV6 offers better value, faster charging, and a longer base warranty. Tesla leads in cargo and software integration.
2. Which one is faster? The EV6 GT beats the Model Y Performance with a 0–100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds vs. 3.7 seconds.
3. How much does it cost to fully charge each vehicle? Roughly $12–$13 CAD at home for both. Public chargers may vary.
4. Which vehicle has better range? The Model Y Long Range leads slightly with 531 km vs. EV6’s 499 km in Long Range AWD.
5. Can the EV6 use Tesla Superchargers? Yes, some Canadian Superchargers are now open to all EVs including Kia models.
Make the smarter EV choice. Experience the EV6 difference today at Kia 417 Ottawa.
TEST DRIVE THE 2025 KIA EVs
