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This is a comprehensive comparison of the specs and features of Australia's best-selling electric SUVs - the Tesla Model Y medium SUV and a recent entrant to the electric SUV market - the Kia EV9.
This comparison focuses on the base variants of each model:
Price and Incentives
The Kia EV9 is considerably more expensive than the Tesla Model Y.
The Kia EV9 Air RWD costs $31,600 more than the Tesla Model Y RWD. It should be noted that the EV9 is considerably larger than the Model Y.
The Kia EV9 will miss out on most state government incentives and the FBT exemption due to its starting price of $97,000 which exceeds the LCT. The Tesla Model Y RWD should be eligible for most.
For an estimated driveaway price and total cost of ownership - use the zecar cost of ownership calculator.
Size and Dimensions
The EV9 is the larger car overall, offering more space all round, including a 7-seat option.
Both EVs are considered to be practical for their class. They are both built on a dedicated EV platform which allows for greater interior space relative to the external footprint. Size wise the Kia EV9 is similar in size to popular large petrol SUVs such as the Land Rover Range Rover (5052 mm), Toyota LandCruiser (4995 mm), and BMW X5 (4935 mm). The Model Y is similar in size to a Toyota Kluger.
The Kia EV9 is larger in size than the Model Y. The EV9 is longer (+259 mm), wider (+59 mm) and taller (+131 mm).
The Model Y is the lighter vehicle, weighing 383 kg less than the EV9. This is likely the main reason for its superior claimed energy efficiency.
The Model Y RWD has a higher towing capacity, rated to tow at 1600 kg braked, whereas the EV9 is rated to tow 900 kg braked.
Range and Performance
The Model Y RWD offers slightly more range and acceleration than the Kia EV9 RWD.
On paper, the Model Y offers slightly more claimed WLTP range (+12 km) while also being more efficient than the EV9, due to being 383 kg lighter.
The Model Y offers faster acceleration than the EV9, hitting 0 to 100 km/hr in just 6.9 seconds. This is due its lower weight and more powerful motor.
Battery and Charging
The Kia EV9 offers faster DC charging speeds than the Model Y.
The Kia EV9 (240 kW DC) offers faster DC charging than the Tesla Model Y (160 kW DC). Both models feature a three-phase onboard charger which are capable of AC charging rates of 11 kW.
Only the Kia EV9 offers V2L which allows you to use the car's battery as a mobile power bank. The V2L feature could be useful for camping, road-trips and potentially in the event of a blackout.
Calculate your personal charging costs and times for each model using this calculator.
Driver Technology
The EV9 offers more driver-assist features than the Tesla Model Y.
The Kia EV9 on paper offers more driver-assist technology features than the Tesla Model Y. The EV9 features a 12.3 inch drivers display , heads up display and 360 degree parking.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Model Y features a superior infotainment systems compared to the EV9.
The Model Y is considered to have a superior infotainment and connectivity offering highlighted by its sharp 15.0 inch centre screen, snappy user-friendly interface and high quality sound system.
The Kia EV9 however features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which the Tesla lacks.
Both models feature mobile apps which allow functionalities such as remote lock, pre-heating/cooling and charge monitoring.
Other Features
The EV9 comes with a sunroof as standard whereas the Model Y comes with a panoramic glass roof.
Warranty and Servicing
The Kia EV9 offers a superior vehicle warranty than the Model Y, however the Model Y offers a slightly better battery warranty based on time duration and distance travelled.
The Tesla Model Y requires less frequent servicing.
About the author
![Author Avatar](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/o5m1ex7g/production/6a20386b6725fddc28da67aba35836ce19dcfa1f-1220x1218.jpg)
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data. He is the founder of zecar and is currently the EV Innovation Manager at Endeavour Energy.
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