Tesla Model 3 Long Range vs Kia Niro EV: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: Tesla Model 3 Long Range vs Kia Niro EV. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
Our verdict
Tesla Model 3 Long Range wins this head-to-head
It wins 6 of 8 categories compared below, with a margin of 5 category wins.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | Model 3 Long Range | Niro EV |
|---|---|---|
| Range Model 3 Long Range wins | 549 km | 407 km |
| Battery Model 3 Long Range wins | 82 kWh | 64.8 kWh |
| Efficiency Model 3 Long Range wins | 14.9 kWh/100km | 15.5 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h Model 3 Long Range wins | 4.2 s | 7.1 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% Model 3 Long Range wins | ~22 min | ~45 min |
| Seats tie | 5 | 5 |
| Price Niro EV wins | $44,990 | $35,000 |
| Rating Model 3 Long Range wins | 4.6 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $335/yr | $349/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | Model 3 Long Range | Niro EV |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 82 kWh | 64.8 kWh |
| Range | 341 mi (EPA) | 253 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 145 mph | 104 mph |
| Power | AWD · 423 hp | FWD · 201 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 s | 7.1 s |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~22 min | ~45 min (100kW) |
| Drive | Dual motor AWD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Efficiency | — | 4.0 mi/kWh |
| Cargo | — | 54.6 cu ft |
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Pros
- Long real-world range
- Best fast-charging network
- Frequent software updates
- Low long-term running costs
Cons
- Minimalist interior is not for everyone
- No physical buttons
- Build quality varies
- Insurance can be pricey
Kia Niro EV
Pros
- Efficient
- Practical cabin
- Great value
- Comfortable ride
Cons
- Average charging speed
- Not the most exciting
- Rear seat snug
- Conservative design
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range really better than Kia Niro EV?
Our verdict is based on real specs: range, battery, efficiency, acceleration, charging speed, seats, price and rating. The winner wins the majority of those categories, but the right choice depends on your budget, driving style and priorities.
Which has more range, Tesla Model 3 Long Range or Kia Niro EV?
549 km vs 407 km respectively, before factoring in weather and driving conditions.
Which is cheaper to run?
Based on official efficiency and a typical $0.15/kWh tariff at 15,000 km per year, running costs are estimated at $335/yr for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and $349/yr for the Kia Niro EV.
Should I compare more models?
Yes - add both models to our interactive comparator to see every spec side by side, or use the Which EV quiz to find more models that fit your budget and lifestyle.
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Not sure which one is right for you?
Add these models to our interactive comparator and compare every spec side by side, or take the quiz to find even more matches.