Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs Tesla Model Y: Which Electric SUV Is Best for Columbia, SC Drivers?

The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has surged in recent years. In 2024, EVs surpassed a 20% share of the global car market for the first time, with over 17 million units sold.

Hyundai and Tesla have been in the EV market for over a decade and are leaders in the EV revolution. In this head-to-head comparison, we pit their flagship EV SUVs, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the Tesla Model Y, against each other to discover which reigns supreme in 2025. 

Compare Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs Tesla Model Y Performance in Columbia, SC

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is available in two powertrain configurations: all-wheel drive with dual motors and rear-wheel drive with a single motor. Hyundai offers the base SE Standard Range with rear-wheel drive, and its 63 kWh battery generates 125 kW (equivalent to 168 horsepower) and 258 lb-ft of torque. All other models have an 84 kWh long-range battery. Rear-wheel-drive models with the bigger battery produce 168 kW (or 225 horsepower) and 258 lb-ft of torque. With all-wheel drive, it churns out a remarkable 239 kW, or 320 horsepower, and 446 lb-ft of torque.

All-wheel-drive variants of the 2025 IONIQ 5 make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4.5 seconds. They also deliver sporty performance, reaching an impressive top speed of 117 mph.

The redesigned 2025 Tesla Model Y also offers two powertrains: Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range All-Wheel Drive. Each model comes with a 75 kWh battery. The Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive model has one motor and outputs 220 kW, equivalent to 295 horsepower, and 310 lb-ft of torque. With the Long Range All-Wheel Drive model, you get dual motors that produce 378 kW, or 384 horsepower, and 375 lb-ft of torque.

Tesla's rear-wheel-drive model makes the 0 to 60 mph dash in 5.4 seconds. If you choose all-wheel drive, that time decreases to 4.6 seconds.

EV Range and Charging: IONIQ 5 vs Model Y Battery Comparison for Columbia Drivers

Hyundai improved the IONIQ 5’s battery for 2025, extending its range. All-wheel-drive models can travel up to 290 miles on a single charge, and the rear-wheel-drive models can reach up to 318 miles.

 You'll also find improved battery charging capabilities on the IONIQ 5. It's the first Hyundai model to feature a Tesla Supercharger-compatible North American Charging Standard port, making it compatible with ultra-fast chargers. Charging the long-range battery with an 800V ultra-fast charger adds 178 miles of range in just 15 minutes. It also takes the battery about seven hours and 20 minutes to go from 10% to 100% when charged using a 240 V AC home charging unit.

The 2025 Model Y Tesla has an equally impressive range, with the Long-Range All-Wheel Drive model traveling up to 327 miles on a single charge. Charging its battery using a supercharger adds up to 182 miles of range in 15 minutes, and a full charge using a 240 V AC charger takes about eight to nine hours.

Design and Comfort

The new Hyundai IONIQ 5 features a sleek and modern exterior design with standout styling elements, such as LED headlights and taillights, LED daytime running lights, and active grille shutters. Its interior is equally eye-catching, with premium materials adorning every inch of the cabin.

The IONIQ 5 Standard Range SE model offers stain-resistant cloth-trimmed seats, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a six-way manually adjustable front passenger seat. Higher models come with H-Tex leatherette seats with eight-way power adjustability for the driver and front passenger seats. Additional conveniences available include heated front and rear seats, a driver seat with Relaxation function, and adjustable headrests.

Tesla has always been known for its futuristic designs, and the 2025 Model Y's aerodynamic, minimalist looks perfectly reflect this. It has a distinctive single cross-car lamp in the rear and no front grille, giving it a contemporary flair. The new Model Y's interior is also sleek and comfortable. It features leatherette seats designed to provide maximum support. You also get heated seats in the front and back for extra comfort. 

Tech Features in the IONIQ 5 vs Model Y: Best Smart EV for Columbia Commutes

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 has numerous advanced technologies, including the Hyundai Bluelink, to enhance the driving experience and ensure you stay connected. All models come equipped with a 12.3-inch touch screen with smartphone integration capabilities. 

The IONIQ 5’s standard Dynamic Voice Recognition system adds a new layer of convenience to this EV's cabin experience, allowing you to access infotainment features and control vehicle functions using voice commands. Other noteworthy tech includes Bluetooth connectivity, wireless chargers, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a premium Bose audio system.

The new Tesla Model Y features an upgraded 15.4-inch touch screen centrally placed on the dashboard panel. This massive display provides access to navigation and entertainment apps, including maps, music streaming services, and games. Your back seat passengers also get an 8-inch rear display that lets them set their preferred temperature, stream audio, watch movies, and play games.  

Test Drive a 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Today at Stivers Hyundai in Columbia, SC

Are you ready to go full electric but still undecided on which of these electric crossover SUVs to go for? Experiencing each firsthand can help you determine which one better matches your needs. Schedule a free test drive of the new Hyundai IONIQ 5 at our dealership in Columbia, South Carolina, to get a better feel for its remarkable range and performance. You can see for yourself why it's one of the most popular EV SUVs on the market today. 

Images by OEM