As you search for the perfect electric vehicle, the Tesla Model Y looms large – but is it the only game in town? Hardly. Cars similar to the Model Y prioritize performance, range, and features, giving you a wealth of options to choose from.
If the Model Y’s impressive specs have set the bar high, you’re in luck – the competition is fierce, and we’re about to delve into the alternatives that might just steal the show.
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Key Takeaways
- The Ford Mustang Mach-E offers a 320-mile range, making it a strong alternative to the Tesla Model Y.
- The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 boast ranges of 245 and 310 miles, respectively, as viable Tesla Model Y alternatives.
- The Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at $34,995, providing an affordable fully electric car option.
- Luxury electric SUVs like the Audi e-tron and Jaguar I-PACE offer ranges up to 292 miles, rivalling the Tesla Model Y.
- The Lexus RX Hybrid provides a practical alternative to electric vehicles, with a comfortable ride and 37 mpg in the city.
Tesla Alternatives
If you’re in the market for a Tesla alternative, you’re likely looking for an electric vehicle that can rival its performance, range, and features.
The Tesla Model Y sets a high bar, but options like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq offer compelling alternatives.
As the best EV in its class, the Kia Niro EV boasts an impressive Long Range, making it a strong contender.
When considering Tesla alternatives, prioritize factors like performance, range, and features to find the electric SUV that best meets your needs.
Non-Tesla Electric Vehicles
You’re looking for alternatives to the Tesla Model Y, and you’re willing to ponder non-Tesla options.
In this category, you’ll find electric crossovers like the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E, 2025 Kia EV6, and 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5, which offer impressive ranges and strong overall scores.
These electric SUVs, including the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV, provide a range of options to weigh against different budgets and needs.
Electric Crossover Options
Electric crossover options abound, offering a range of choices for those seeking a non-Tesla electric vehicle experience.
If you’re looking for an EV with a similar range to the Tesla Model Y, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 are strong alternatives, boasting ranges of 245 and 310 miles, respectively.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E also impresses with its 320-mile range.
Meanwhile, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers a more affordable option, with a still-respectable 206-mile range.
For those on a tighter budget, the Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at just $34,995, making it an attractive fully electric car choice.
Alternative Electric SUVs
Beyond Tesla’s offerings, alternative electric SUVs abound, each packing unique features and advantages.
If you’re looking for the Tesla Model Y, consider the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which offers an impressive range of 9.0/10 and a comfortable ride, all for about $8,000 less than a base Model Y.
The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 also boast decent ranges and fun-to-drive personalities.
The Volkswagen ID.4 and Chevrolet Equinox EV round out the list, offering a full charge and decent range, respectively, making them strong contenders in the electric SUV market.
Hybrid and Other Options
You may consider the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, which offers a comfortable ride and fuel economy of 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
With a base MSRP of $51,125, this hybrid option provides a practical alternative to electric vehicles.
You can review its specs and overall score of 8.3/10 on U.S. News & World Report to make an informed decision.
Lexus RX Hybrid
The Lexus RX Hybrid offers a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model Y, particularly for those seeking a more varied option than the typical electric vehicle.
You’ll appreciate the hybrid’s ride, which pairs well with the available all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive configurations.
The spacious interior boasts a user-friendly layout, while the electric motor provides added efficiency.
As a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Lexus RX Hybrid makes an excellent choice for those who want to minimize their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance or convenience.
Fuel Economy Options
When shopping for an eco-friendly ride, fuel economy is a crucial consideration.
If you’re looking for a hybrid option, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offers a fuel economy of 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
However, if you prefer an electric crossover, the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E can travel up to 344 miles on a single charge.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 can go up to 303 miles, while the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 has an EPA-estimated range of 240-291 miles.
If You Don’t Want the Model Y, Consider These Electric Crossovers Instead
Considering alternatives to the Tesla Model Y can be a smart move, especially since several electric crossovers offer impressive ranges and competitive pricing.
If you’re looking for a range model with impressive interior features, consider these options:
- Hyundai Ioniq 5: 245-318 miles range, starting at $42,500, with a U.S. News Overall Score of 9.1/10.
- Kia EV6: 232-310 miles range, starting at $42,600, with a U.S. News Overall Score of 8.9/10.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E: 220-312 miles range, starting at $36,000, with a U.S. News Overall Score of 9.0/10.
Tesla Model Y Specs: Why It’s Tough to Beat
With its impressive performance specs, the Tesla Model Y sets a high bar that’s tough to clear, especially for electric crossovers in its class.
You can drive the Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant for 320 miles on a single charge, reaching 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Upgrade to the Dual Motor for more power and a 4.8-second sprint.
The Model Y Performance sacrifices some miles (279 EPA) for a 3.5-second blast to 60 mph.
This practical, roomy interior offers comfort and style, making it a top-selling choice – and a tough act to follow for alternatives.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
You’ll find the Ioniq 5 positioned as a solid alternative to the Tesla Model Y, boasting a range of trims to suit varying budgets and preferences.
The base model starts at $41,800 with 168 hp and 220 miles of range, while the high-performance Ioniq 5 N comes in at $66,100.
- Range and Performance: The Ioniq 5’s range varies from 220 to 303 miles, with power outputs ranging from 168 to 320 hp.
- Comfort and Space: The Ioniq 5 offers a super comfortable drive, impressive interior space, and posh materials.
- Electric Options: The Ioniq 5 is a fully electric vehicle, with no plug-in hybrid option, unlike some competitors.
Kia EV6
The Kia EV6, a sibling to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, breaks the mold of traditional electric vehicles.
You’ll find a unique appearance, akin to a rally car on stilts.
The Long Range AWD model packs a 77.4 kWh battery, delivering 310 miles and 225 hp.
You can also opt for the hot EV6 GT, which accelerates to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, but range drops to 206 miles.
With ultra-fast charging, you can get from 10-80% in just 18 minutes.
The Kia EV6 is a fun-to-drive electric, offering a range of options to suit your needs.
Other Electric Crossover Options
Beyond the Kia EV6’s unique appeal, you’re likely considering other electric crossover options that can meet your needs.
You may want to investigate alternatives to the Tesla Model Y that offer a similar range and performance:
- Ford Mustang Mach-E: A fun-to-drive electric crossover with a starting price of $34,995, offering a lot of car for the money.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5: Built on the same E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 6, with a base $41,800 Standard Range model having 168 hp and 220 miles of range.
- Chevrolet Equinox EV: A great option with a starting price of $34,995, making it an affordable choice with a lot of car for the money, and a strong alternative to the Tesla.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
Shopping for a new car, especially an electric crossover like the Tesla Model Y, can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, U.S. News & World Report offers a range of car research tools.
Car Research Tools | Features | Benefits | |
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New Car Rankings | Based on reliability data, automotive experts’ opinions | Informed purchasing decisions | |
Best Price Program | Pre-negotiated savings with local dealers | Cost-effective | |
Online Sales | Home delivery options | Seamless car-buying | |
Filter Options | Price, fuel type, body style | Find ideal car, including plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options | Compare to Tesla Model Y |
These tools provide car buyers with the latest data, making it easy to compare options and find the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
As you navigate the electric vehicle landscape, recall that the Tesla Model Y is like a lighthouse on a rocky coast – it shines bright, but other lights of innovation are emerging. The Hyundai Ioniq 5‘s sleek design and Kia EV6’s performance powerhouse are charting their own paths. Volkswagen ID.4 and Chevrolet Equinox EV offer range and value, and hybrid options like Lexus RX Hybrid‘s comfort and fuel economy. With these alternatives, you can find the perfect fit for your needs, even if the Model Y isn’t your guiding light.