Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model S
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Tesla Model S | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 225 | 670 | -66.4% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 350 | 949 | -63.1% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 18.2 | 17.5 | +4.0% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | 1-Speed Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $48,200 | $76,500 | -37.0% |
- Tesla Model S makes about 66% more power (670 vs 225 hp).
- Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 18.2.
Verdict: Ioniq 5 or Model S?
Hyundai Ioniq 5 advantages
- Affordability (+37%)
Tesla Model S advantages
- Engine power (+66%)
- Pulling torque (+63%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Hyundai Ioniq 5 if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Tesla Model S delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model S: which should you choose?
Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2026 SEL RWD Long Range) — electric suv with 225 hp and 350 Nm, rated at 18.2 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $48,200 in the US market.
Tesla Model S (2026 Dual Motor AWD) — electric sedan with 670 hp and 949 Nm, rated at 17.5 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $76,500 in the US market.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Tesla Model S: Tesla Model S is more powerful. Tesla Model S makes about 66% more power (670 vs 225 hp). Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 18.2.
Performance
The Tesla Model S is the more powerful, at 670 hp against 225 hp, with 949 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a 1-speed automatic transmission.
Running costs
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, drawing 17.5 kWh/100km against 18.2 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
Hyundai Ioniq 5 is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and Tesla Model S 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 lists lower at about $48,200 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 better than the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S takes the overall edge, though Hyundai Ioniq 5 wins in specific areas worth weighing. Tesla Model S makes about 66% more power (670 vs 225 hp).
What is the main difference between the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Tesla Model S?
Tesla Model S makes about 66% more power (670 vs 225 hp). Tesla Model S is the more efficient EV, using 17.5 kWh/100km against 18.2.
Which is better value?
Tesla Model S delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Hyundai Ioniq 5 if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.