Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai I40
What's the difference?

Tesla Model 3

$54,900 - $80,900

2026 price

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Hyundai I40

$10,250 - $17,990

2018 price

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Maserati Quattroporte

Mazda 6

Mazda Cx-6E

Mercedes-Benz A200

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2026 Tesla Model 3

2018 Hyundai I40

By James Cleary

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Diesel Turbo 4, 1.7L

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Diesel

Electric range

750 km

5.1L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

13.6 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

75.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Safety
Energy efficiency
Cabin environment

Impressive ride and handling
Diesel engine provides plenty of oomph
Roomy

Dislikes

No spare tyre
FSD unconvincing
Average ownership proposition

Tiny display screen
No AEB
Tyre noise

2026 Tesla Model 3 Summary

It’s been in Australia since 2019 and despite the arrival of a comprehensively upgraded version in late 2023, the Tesla Model 3’s once gargantuan popularity has been declining in recent years.

A seemingly never-ending influx of pure-electric alternatives, primarily from China, has eroded the mid-size sedan’s positioning as the go-to, best-value EV choice.

But to its credit Tesla has again evolved the Model 3 proposition with the introduction of this Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive grade in October last year, at the time positioning it as “the longest-range EV in Australia”.

Since then, Tesla has adjusted the model grade name to Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive.

Some additional tweaks, made in response to customer feedback, also illustrates the EV pioneer’s determination to step up in the face of increasingly fierce competition.

So, does this latest Model 3 do enough to earn a spot on your electric vehicle shopping list? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.

@carsguide.com.au ‘Dog Mode’ in the Tesla Model 3 is a life-saver for four-legged friends in the summer heat.🐾 #tesla #model3 #ev #cartok #doggosdoingthings ♬ original sound - CarsGuide.com.au

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2018 Hyundai I40 Summary

A wagon and not an SUV, eh? Respect. You see, when most people now think of a new car they think of an SUV, especially when they want something with a bit of cargo space. But not you.

And for thinking outside the box you’ll be rewarded with something that’s better to drive than most SUVs – like the Hyundai i40 Tourer in the Active grade and a diesel engine we’ve road tested here.

So, what are the strengths and weaknesses of this Korean wagon, and should you wait or buy it now? Read on to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Tesla Model 3 2018 Hyundai I40

Verdict

Tesla has done enough with the introduction of this Premium Long Range RWD variant to keep the Model 3’s head well and truly above water in an increasingly competitive segment. After more than six years it still looks good, with a pleasant cabin environment, plenty of performance and leading energy efficiency. Safety is top-shelf and it stands up well in terms of practicality and driving dynamics.

That said, the ownership proposition is average, the determination to make so many functions screen-based is frustrating and the optional Full Self-Driving system is unconvincing. With the Model S and Model Y now discontinued globally it will be interesting to see how the Model 3 continues to evolve.

Verdict

The i40 Tourer in the Active grade is great to drive, it’s practical, and should be low-cost to run. But you can bet the new version, due to arrive soon, will be, too. If you can wait, it's a safe bet the new i40 Tourer will have an updated look, improved safety equipment and retain all the good points of the previous model.

Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai I40 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Tesla Model 3 vs Hyundai I40
What's the difference?