Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV6: Which EV Suits India Best?

Tesla Model Y Overview

With Tesla's arrival in India, the Model Y is the brand’s first official entry into the market. The SUV looks minimal but feels futuristic. Available in two variants—rear-wheel Drive and Long Range RWD—it balances clean styling with practical features.

Design & Technology

• Panoramic glass roof for an open cabin feel
   
• Flush door handles to reduce drag
   
• 15.4-inch central touchscreen for all controls
   
• 8-inch rear passenger screen
   
• 19-inch aero wheels for efficiency
   
• All-black interior with optional black and white theme

Comfort & Storage

• Heated and foldable rear seats
   
• Boot capacity of 854 litres (seats up) and over 2,000 litres with seats folded
   
• Clean, airy interior with a clutter-free dashboard
   
• Wireless charging and multiple USB-C ports

Performance

• Two battery options: 60 kWh and 75 kWh
   
• Claimed range of 500 km and 622 km, respectively
   
• 0 to 100 km/h in under 6 seconds, depending on variant

Tesla’s strength lies in its software-first approach. From Over-the-Air (OTA) updates to Autopilot (available as a paid add-on), the Model Y evolves even after you purchase it. There is a certain appeal in its simplicity, making it unique among premium EVs.

Kia EV6 Overview

Unlike Tesla, Kia has already established its presence in India. The Kia EV6 comes with a bolder exterior and a more conventional, feature-loaded interior. It is available in a single top-end AWD variant with a large 84 kWh battery.

Design & Technology

• Dual 12.3-inch curved displays
   
• Augmented Reality Head-Up Display
   
• Meridian 14-speaker sound system
   
• V2L (Vehicle to Load) and V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) support
   
• Digital Key 2.0

Comfort & Features

• Vegan leatherette upholstery with black suede
   
• Ventilated and power-adjustable seats
   
• 64-colour ambient mood lighting
   
• Wide sunroof with tilt and slide
   
• Heated steering wheel and seats
   
• Smart power tailgate

Performance

• AWD for maximum grip and stability
   
• 663 km ARAI-certified range
   
• 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds
   
• McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension

The EV6 focuses on comfort, connectivity, and a tech-rich driving experience. It’s an electric vehicle for those who love features and a tactile cabin.

Tesla Price in India – What Buyers Should Know

One of the most discussed aspects is the Tesla price in India. The Model Y is brought in as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), which means the cost includes high import duties. While the ex-showroom prices start at a premium, Delhi buyers enjoy some relief through state EV subsidies and road tax waivers.

Here are the price details:

• Tesla Model Y RWD (60 kWh): ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom)
   
• Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD (75 kWh): ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom)

Compared to this, the Kia EV6 Price in India is ₹66.97 lakh (ex-showroom)

Please note that:

• Price varies based on battery and variant
   
• Additional cost applies for colour upgrades and interior themes
   
• The Tesla autopilot feature is chargeable separately
   
• The Tesla wall box charger is free for a limited period; paid thereafter

Booking is open through Tesla’s India website. Deliveries are expected to begin in the current quarter for the standard variant.

Tesla Model Y vs Kia EV6: Side-by-Side Comparison

Interior Experience

Tesla’s cabin design follows a less-is-more approach. The large display acts as the control centre for nearly everything, from climate control to media. The dashboard has no buttons, giving it a clean, modern look.

In contrast, the EV6 surrounds the driver with physical controls and touchscreen interfaces. Features like ambient lighting, premium upholstery, and tactile buttons make it feel more luxurious. Passengers have access to better creature comforts, especially at the rear.

Both models are five-seaters and offer good space, but the EV6 feels more personalised while the Model Y is more futuristic.

Safety and Driver Assistance

When it comes to safety, both SUVs are well-equipped. The Model Y includes:

• Seven airbags
   
• Collision avoidance system
   
• Emergency braking
   
• Lane departure warning
   
• Dog Mode to maintain cabin temperature

On the other hand, the Kia EV6 takes things up a notch:

• Eight airbags
   
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist
   
• Blind-Spot Detection
   
• Safe Exit Assist
   
• ADAS Level 2 with Lane Keep and Follow Assist

Tesla’s Autopilot is powerful but optional and subject to future regulatory updates. Kia’s ADAS features come as standard, making it more accessible to all buyers.

Charging Capabilities and Daily Usability

Both vehicles support fast charging, but infrastructure still plays a role in real-world convenience.

Tesla Model Y

• DC Fast Charging: Adds up to 267 km in 15 minutes
   
• Home Charging: AC overnight setup
   
• Free wall box charger for a limited time
   
• Access to the upcoming Tesla Supercharger network

Kia EV6

• DC Fast Charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes (350 kW charger)
   
• AC Charging: Compatible with public networks
   
• V2L function for powering laptops or small appliances

In metros like Delhi, public charging stations are growing, but still not fully reliable. Tesla’s Supercharger network is in the early rollout stage, while the EV6 can adapt better with its broader compatibility.

Final Words

Choosing between the Kia EV6 and the Tesla Model Y depends on your definition of modern luxury. If your focus is on design simplicity, continuous software enhancements, and brand appeal, Tesla in India makes a strong case. However, if you want feature-loaded comfort, tactile interiors, and a wider list of standard equipment, the EV6 delivers value with a complete package.

The Tesla price tag may be higher due to CBU import costs, but it brings along a unique ownership experience. The EV6, on the other hand, is better suited for users who want plug-and-play convenience with top-tier creature comforts.

Either way, India’s EV landscape just got a lot more exciting.