Hyundai Ioniq 6 vs. Tesla Model 3: Complete comparison 2026

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is an instantly recognizable electric sedan with a unique aerodynamic shape that brings top-tier efficiency and futuristic design to the market. Standing against it is the Tesla Model 3, a long-time pioneer and sales benchmark in the mid-size electric vehicle class, which has won over drivers worldwide with its minimalist approach and advanced technologies. Let's take a detailed look at which of these two popular electric rivals offers a better overall experience and represents a more sensible choice for your next purchase.

When choosing a used electric car around four years old, you will encounter a fundamental difference in overall size between these two models. Although both the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Tesla Model 3 place extreme emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency, their physical footprints on the road differ significantly. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 ranks among larger cars and its proportions give a more massive impression on the road, while the Tesla Model 3 sticks to more compact dimensions typical of mid-size cars. This overall size directly determines which car will be easier to live with depending on your environment.

Looking at specific data from 2022, the Hyundai Ioniq 6, at 4,855 mm, is a noticeable 161 mm longer than the Tesla Model 3 (4,694 mm). A similarly significant difference exists in the wheelbase, where the Hyundai offers 2,950 mm compared to 2,875 mm for the Tesla. In practice, this means significantly more longitudinal interior space for the occupants, which will primarily benefit rear-seat passengers. On the other hand, the Tesla Model 3 can turn its shorter and slightly narrower body (1,849 mm versus 1,880 mm for the Korean car) into a major advantage in daily city traffic. The American electric car is much easier to weave through narrow streets and you can park it in a typical parallel spot with much less effort.

In the compared versions, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is also 52 mm taller (1,495 mm versus 1,443 mm), which has a positive effect on headroom and can make it slightly easier for passengers to get into the low-slung seats. These physical differences thus clearly profile the ideal buyer for both cars. If your priority is generous interior space for the family, stability on long journeys, and you don't mind the greater demands on parking space dimensions, the Ioniq 6 will be a better candidate for you. However, if you prefer a more agile performance and are looking for a car that is easy to handle even in cramped shopping mall garages, the Tesla Model 3 will suit you much better with its proportions.

When choosing a used electric car on the current market, especially if you are considering models around four years old, the luggage compartment volume plays a crucial role. Whether you are planning routine family shopping, long holiday trips, or transporting larger sports equipment, the practicality of the trunk can significantly affect the car's daily usability. While both the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Tesla Model 3 represent the pinnacle of aerodynamic efficiency in the electric sedan class, their approach to interior space differs vastly, which directly defines how well they serve various demanding buyers.

The first-generation Hyundai Ioniq 6 (available since 2022) is characterized by an iconic teardrop shape, which, while excelling in range, causes the trunk volume to suffer noticeably. The standard capacity is 401 liters, a value fully sufficient for weekend shopping or smaller luggage, but in direct comparison within the class, it feels more cramped. However, if you fold the rear seats, the cargo capacity unexpectedly increases to an impressive 1,578 liters. The car thus provides a long loading area that can handle skis or disassembled pieces of furniture. A limitation remains the smaller opening, which is typical for sedan-type cars and can complicate the handling of bulkier items.

On the other hand, the first-generation Tesla Model 3 (in corresponding years around 2022) offers a significantly more generous basic space of 561 liters. This capacity includes not only a sufficiently deep main trunk with a hidden compartment under the floor but also a highly practical storage space under the front hood (frunk). In practice, this difference means space for several extra suitcases without having to restrict the passengers inside the cabin. After fully folding the seats, the Tesla offers a total cargo volume of approximately 1,200 liters. Although it lags behind the maximum capacity of its Korean rival on paper, the Model 3 feels more flexible and usable for family travel thanks to its more thoughtful layout and deeper base.

When it comes to towing capabilities, electric vehicles tend to have their specifics, and a comparison of roughly four-year-old Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3 models (2022–2023 model years) shows differences that can be crucial for buyers in terms of everyday practicality. While both cars can easily handle an unbraked trailer with a standard weight of 750 kg, the maximum values for braked trailers already diverge significantly.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 with the larger battery (77.4 kWh) offers a very solid maximum braked trailer weight of 1500 kg. However, if you opt for the base version with the smaller battery (53 kWh), this value drops to just 750 kg. In contrast, the competing Tesla Model 3 has a uniform towing capacity of 1000 kg for a braked trailer across its common variants (such as Standard or Long Range trims). An important exception in the lineup is the top-of-the-line sporty Tesla Model 3 Performance variant, for which a factory-fitted tow bar was generally not available in these used model years, and it therefore completely lacks an approved towing capacity.

In practice, these differences mean a lot. The Tesla's towing power is perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping, taking garden waste in a small trailer, or for the reliable mounting of a heavier e-bike rack. But the Ioniq 6 with the larger battery goes even further – it can easily handle towing even a smaller caravan. This fact easily compensates for the lack of space for a few extra suitcases and undoubtedly makes the Korean car a more suitable choice for longer holidays. In conclusion, if you plan to regularly tow heavier loads and caravans, the more powerful version of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 will offer you much more versatility. In contrast, the Tesla will serve perfectly for common, rather lighter recreational use.

When comparing the powertrains of these two popular electric vehicles, we encounter different technical philosophies, although both cars share the same goal – to maximize efficiency. While the Hyundai Ioniq 6 relies on an incredibly aerodynamic body and offers a choice of several battery capacities with a primary focus on highway efficiency, the Tesla Model 3 scores with uncompromising performance and perfectly tuned software for its drive units. Both cars offer efficient single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) variants as well as more powerful dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) versions, ideal for poor traction conditions. For buyers in the used car market, where cars approximately four years old represent a logical and price-attractive choice, the selection often narrows down to a choice between the innovative and lightning-fast charging 800V platform from the South Korean manufacturer, or the brutal dynamics and time-tested motors of the pioneer from California. The deciding factor will primarily be your budget and whether you prefer maximum driving refinement or breathtaking acceleration.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The South Korean Ioniq 6 model went on sale at the end of 2022 with two main battery capacities, which today form the absolute basis of the offering in the category of late-model used cars. The most affordable variant is the version with a smaller 53kWh battery and a single rear-mounted electric motor with an output of 111 kW. However, for logical reasons, the version with the larger 77.4kWh battery is much more sought after. This was supplied to the market in two key versions: the more economical single-motor (RWD) with an ideal output of 168 kW for long trips, and the top-of-the-line dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) with a solid total output of 239 kW and a massive torque of 605 Nm. A huge advantage of all these specifications is the cutting-edge 800V electrical system, thanks to which the car can charge at extreme speeds. As the model's database specifications show, modernized versions with new 63 kWh and 84 kWh batteries, as well as the purely sporty N model, were added to the range from January 2026. However, these do not yet appear on the market for four-year-old cars, so for more budget-conscious used car buyers, we recommend choosing from the proven range of 2022–2026 production, which is detailed in the table.

Tesla Model 3

The first generation of the Tesla Model 3 is a market phenomenon and represents a safe bet for those interested in an approximately four-year-old car (based on production around 2022). Tesla takes a very straightforward approach here with three proven versions. The base rear-wheel drive model, most often referred to simply as Model 3 or formerly Standard Range Plus, uses a battery with a capacity of around 60 kWh and already offers a more than generous output of 208 kW. For motorists focused on family trips or winter skiing, the most versatile variant is the Long Range AWD version (labeled Maximale Reichweite in some markets). It features two motors working simultaneously, uses a larger 82kWh battery, and offers a combined output of approximately 366 kW with very solid pull. Sitting on the imaginary throne in this generation is the Performance AWD version, where torque grows to a massive 640 Nm and with an output of 377 kW, it completely dominates most everyday traffic. Although minor refreshing steps and modernization of the grille and equipment occurred at the turn of 2023 and 2024 and later in 2025, the original powertrains from 2019 to 2023 remain a highly recommended and mechanically and software-wise absolutely superior choice.

Choosing the right drivetrain and battery capacity is crucial for electric vehicles to ensure long-term satisfaction, real-world range, and mechanical reliability. Both of these vehicles from around 2022 represent an exceptionally attractive choice on today's market of roughly four-year-old used cars, offering an excellent price-to-utility ratio. While the Hyundai Ioniq 6 bets on aerodynamic design with an incredible drag coefficient (Cd 0.21) and advanced 800V architecture that minimizes charging time, the Tesla Model 3 is the benchmark for software optimization and powertrain efficiency, benefiting from an unrivaled integrated ecosystem of Supercharger stations. Our recommendations are based on real owner experiences, battery degradation data, and service reliability after several years of operation.

For the Hyundai Ioniq 6, we recommend: 77.4 kWh 2WD (168 kW / 228 hp)

For Ioniq 6 models from the first production wave (from late 2022), the version with the larger 77.4 kWh battery and rear-wheel drive (2WD) is clearly the most rational choice. This configuration offers a perfect balance between dynamics, everyday practicality, and maximum range. The absence of a front electric motor (compared to the 4WD version) saves weight, which, combined with top-tier aerodynamics, results in excellent real-world consumption of around 15 kWh/100 km and a theoretical range exceeding 610 km (WLTP). The 168 kW output with a solid 350 Nm of torque ensures smooth and safe overtaking. However, the main technological weapon is the 800V onboard system, which allows for recharging from 10 to 80% in a breathtaking 18 minutes on compatible DC chargers.

• Who it's for: Ideal for drivers covering long highway distances, tech enthusiasts, and those who appreciate maximum range supported by extremely fast charging without the need for all-wheel drive.
• What to watch out for (Risks): The most well-known design weakness of the E-GMP platform (on which the Ioniq 6 is built) is the ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit) module. Failure of this unit can lead to the 12V onboard battery stopping charging, potentially leaving the car stranded, or high-voltage charging may fail.
• How to detect the problem: When buying a used car, always carefully check the vehicle's service history to see if it has already undergone a recall and received a software update or a new hardware revision of the ICCU module. During the test drive, it is essential to test both slow AC charging (from a wallbox or pillar) and fast DC charging. It must start smoothly and without error messages on the dashboard display.

For the Tesla Model 3, we recommend: Long Range AWD (Maximale Reichweite) (approx. 366 kW / 498 hp)

In the case of the Tesla Model 3 (especially from 2022 and 2023), the "holy grail" on the used car market is the Long Range AWD version (often referred to as Maximale Reichweite). This model is equipped with a large battery (typically NCA/NMC chemistry with a capacity of 78–82 kWh) and two electric motors that provide sporty acceleration and excellent traction on snow or wet surfaces. Furthermore, cars from these years are factory-fitted with a highly efficient heat pump, which radically mitigates range loss in winter months and maintains average consumption at a great 16–18 kWh/100 km even at highway speeds. Compared to the basic RWD version, the Long Range also brings a higher-quality premium audio system and a more powerful onboard charger.

• Who it's for: A great choice for dynamically minded drivers, families often heading to the mountains (thanks to reliable 4x4 drive), and anyone requiring completely worry-free cross-border travel thanks to smart navigation with integrated Superchargers.
• What to watch out for (Risks): The Model 3 is a very dynamic and relatively heavy car with a stiffer suspension setup, which puts excessive strain on suspension components. A very common ailment even in slightly used cars is worn silent blocks and squeaking upper control arms on the front axle. The second risk is excessive degradation of the NMC battery if the previous owner charged the car to 100% daily (which the manufacturer does not recommend for this chemistry).
• How to detect the problem: You can detect the deteriorated condition of the suspension arms by driving over speed bumps or potholes at low speed during the test drive. Roll down the windows and listen carefully for any distinct squeaking or creaking from the front wheels. You can verify the battery condition by activating "Service Mode" in the infotainment system and, before making a final decision, letting the internal "Battery Health Test" run overnight, which will show the exact percentage of traction battery degradation.

With electric vehicles, we often encounter a significant difference between strict laboratory range and consumption values (according to the WLTP methodology) and actual real-world consumption on the road. However, especially with aerodynamically carefully optimized cars such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3, engineers are successfully managing to narrow this gap. The data below is based on real-world user measurements aggregated on community platforms like Spritmonitor and focuses specifically on models and generations from 2022 and 2023. That is, cars that represent an ideal choice on today's market for purchasing an approximately four-year-old used electric vehicle.

Looking closely at the table, it is clear that both models belong to the absolute top of the current market in terms of energy efficiency. The base single-axle drive variants of both cars reliably attack the sub-15 kWh/100 km mark. The base Tesla Model 3 averages 14.4 kWh, while the Ioniq 6 with the smaller 53 kWh battery can even drive for a very pleasant 13.9 kWh. The findings for the extended-range versions are fascinating – the Tesla Model 3 Long Range remains extremely efficient (14.7 kWh), making it a phenomenal highway mile-muncher. However, physics cannot be entirely cheated, and as soon as you opt for the powerful all-wheel-drive versions (Hyundai Ioniq 6 AWD at 16.9 kWh or Tesla Model 3 Performance at 16.5 kWh), consumption jumps up. Even these values, however, represent a fantastic result in the context of a market full of heavy electric SUVs.

For the typical driver, these numbers mean tangible benefits. Whether you are a daily commuter from suburban areas or a manager frequently traveling on highways, the low consumption of both cars directly extends the real-world highway range and significantly reduces operating costs. Budget-conscious buyers don't have to worry about unnecessary financial leaks when charging at public fast-charging stations where you pay for the energy consumed. The rear-wheel-drive versions in particular offer a perfect mix of dynamics and extraordinary savings.

In the end, it can be stated that energy consumption itself will not be the deciding factor between a used Hyundai Ioniq 6 and a Tesla Model 3. Both cars are technological benchmarks with incredible aerodynamics and exceptionally low electricity requirements. The decision will therefore rest more on personal preferences regarding the ecosystem: whether you prefer the peace of mind of the original Tesla Supercharger network, or conversely, appreciate the advanced 800V architecture of the Ioniq 6, which allows the car to charge even slightly faster at compatible stations.

When looking for a roughly four-year-old electric car (2022–2023 models), you will encounter a fairly fundamental price difference between these two models. Although they target a similar group of customers as new cars, their positions in the used car market differ significantly. This is primarily due to different market launch times and the different pricing policies of the two automakers.

While the Tesla Model 3 is widely represented on the secondary market and you have a huge selection of 2022 cars, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 entered the market later. Used examples of this aerodynamic sedan are mainly represented by newer 2023 models. They are therefore somewhat rarer, and their average price is noticeably higher.

Estimated prices on the used car market (2022–2023 models)

(Prices are for guidance only and depend on the mileage, battery condition, and origin of the specific vehicle).

What is behind the price difference?

• Value drop due to price cuts: The Tesla Model 3 has undergone several waves of across-the-board price cuts for new cars in recent years. This has logically trickled down to the used car market. For those interested in a 2022 used car, this is a huge advantage – you get top technology and a long range at a very attractive price well below €25,000.
• Exclusivity vs. mass production: The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has a much shorter market history. Models offered in listings are mostly cars coming off terminated operational leases or dealer demo cars. Due to the significantly smaller supply compared to Tesla, the price of the Ioniq 6 falls noticeably slower.
• The warranty factor: The South Korean automaker standardly provides a five-year warranty on the entire vehicle without mileage limits. If you buy a three- to four-year-old Ioniq 6, it is still partially covered by the original factory warranty. In contrast, for a used 2022 Tesla Model 3, the basic warranty (4 years or 80,000 km) is often already approaching its end, although the long warranty on the battery and motors remains in effect.

Both electric vehicles, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Tesla Model 3, achieved the maximum five-star rating in the demanding crash tests conducted by the independent organization Euro NCAP. However, it is essential to view these results in the context of the year in which the respective testing took place.

Euro NCAP methodologies and test protocols evolve constantly over time and become much stricter. For this reason, percentage results from different years cannot be directly compared. Newer test standards place significantly higher demands on small-overlap frontal crash simulations, advanced cyclist detection, and the complex behavior of safety systems in confusing intersection scenarios.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 underwent Euro NCAP safety tests in 2022. According to the stricter and more modern protocols valid for that year, the car demonstrated a first-class level of occupant protection. Attention is drawn primarily to the score for adult occupant protection, which reached an exceptional 97%. Child occupant protection is also at a top level with a result of 87%. The car's assistance systems received an excellent 90% and fully comply with modern standards for active safety. The lower score of 66% for vulnerable road user protection (pedestrians and cyclists) stems mainly from the specific aerodynamic shape of the front of the vehicle, which represents a slight compromise.

On the secondary market for approximately four-year-old used cars, you will encounter Tesla Model 3 vehicles (the generation before the Highland refresh) that hold safety certification from 2019. Although the tests were conducted according to older and slightly less strict rules, the achieved numbers clearly confirm the renowned engineering maturity of this pioneering electric car. The Model 3 excelled with an exceptionally strong body structure, earning it 96% for adult protection and 86% for child protection. Thanks to the legendary Autopilot software, the car achieved a respectable 94% in the safety assist category, while vulnerable road user protection was also very solid for its time (74%). Although the original certification is older, regular over-the-air (OTA) software updates ensure that the car's safety software remains constantly up to date.

The results show that both representatives belong to the absolute top of their class in terms of passive and active safety and offer passengers uncompromising protection. While the Tesla Model 3 benefits from a timelessly dimensioned construction and a strong emphasis on software safety assistants, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers a comprehensive guarantee of protection that has already passed the sieve of newer and significantly more demanding test standards. From the perspective of the most current benchmarks, the South Korean electric car has a slight edge, as its certification guarantees safety in more modern crisis scenarios.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, and both cars demonstrate a completely different approach to innovation and added value.

Hyundai Ioniq 6: Aerodynamic elegance and 800V architecture

• Architecture and charging: Thanks to the E-GMP platform, the car utilizes an advanced 800V network. In practice, this means the possibility of extremely fast charging, where the battery can be charged from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes at powerful fast-charging stations.
• V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) technology: The Ioniq 6 is not just for driving; it also functions as a giant power bank. Using a full-fledged standard socket, it can power electrical appliances, camping equipment, or even charge another electric vehicle in an emergency.
• Smart and innovative design: The extremely aerodynamic "Streamliner" body boasts a top-tier drag coefficient (cx = 0.21), which maximizes range. An iconic and instantly recognizable feature is the lighting with Parametric Pixel technology, giving the car an unmistakable retro-futuristic look.
• Comfort and storage: Optional relaxation front seats can be reclined into a "zero-gravity" position at the touch of a button, ideal for resting during charging breaks. A practical detail is also the bridge-shaped center console, which provides generous storage space.
• Electronics and infotainment: The driver's cockpit consists of two seamlessly connected 12.3-inch displays. In higher trims, the car also offers digital side mirrors that project images onto OLED monitors located at the edges of the dashboard. The vehicle also supports OTA (Over-The-Air) software updates for key control units.

Tesla Model 3: Minimalism, software-first approach, and ecosystem

• Infotainment as the center of everything: The interior is dominated by a single 15-inch central touchscreen, through which the vast majority of the car's functions are controlled – from wiper settings to electronic air vent direction. The system is renowned for its lightning-fast response and offers apps like Netflix, YouTube, or integrated video games to pass the time while parked.
• Iconic features for everyday use: Tesla is a pioneer of specific software modes. Sentry Mode uses the car's cameras to continuously monitor the surroundings and alerts you on your phone via the app in case of suspicious activity. Dog Mode maintains a safe temperature in the cabin for pets, while Camp Mode turns the car into an ideal space for safe and air-conditioned overnight stays.
• Driver assistance systems (Autopilot): The standard Tesla Autopilot system offers one of the most sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems on the market. Cars equipped with Enhanced Autopilot or FSD packages add automatic lane changes, self-parking, or the Summon feature to call the car in a parking lot.
• Smart use of space: Thanks to the compact drivetrain design, the Model 3 offers a deep and practical front trunk, called a "frunk," in addition to the rear trunk. This is excellent for storing charging cables and items you want to keep safely separated from the rest of your luggage.
• Charging ecosystem and updates: The biggest benefit when traveling is the seamless integration with the Tesla Supercharger network. Navigation accurately estimates the battery state at the destination, automatically plans stops, and pre-conditions the battery for maximum charging speed at the station. Furthermore, the car is continuously improved through frequent and comprehensive OTA updates.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a perfect choice for drivers who frequently travel long distances and appreciate top-tier charging speeds or an exceptionally aerodynamic body shape. Despite minor compromises in trunk practicality and rear headroom, it offers an exceptionally spacious and ergonomically friendly interior with the clever V2L function.

Tesla Model 3 will primarily appeal to tech enthusiasts and drivers who prefer a sportier ride with a perfectly seamless software ecosystem. Thanks to hassle-free access to Superchargers, traveling with this car is worry-free, but potential buyers must be prepared for a stiffer ride and a radically minimalist interior.

Based on long-term user reviews, recall data, and insights from every independent technical inspection of the car, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of both used electric vehicles should watch out for.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a relatively young car on the used market, but due to the shared group E-GMP architecture, it exhibits specific defects known from earlier years.

• Electronics and Charging (ICCU): The most serious and well-known problem with cars on this platform is the failure of the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). The fault usually leads to the discharge of the 12V battery and complete immobilization of the car. The manufacturer has issued a mass recall for this problem involving fuse replacement and a software update, so it is essential to verify its completion for a used car.
• Infotainment and Connectivity: Many owners complain about constant random phone disconnections via the wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interface. The cause is often not the software itself, but a loose wiring harness at the USB port under the dashboard. The solution under warranty is usually the replacement of the entire USB port module.
• Interior and Workmanship: Although the overall assembly quality is high, early units may produce minor noises (creaking) from the door panels or B-pillar trim when driving over bumps.
• Active Aerodynamics: The flaps in the front bumper, which regulate the air intake for cooling, can freeze up in winter months during heavy icing and trigger an error message on the instrument cluster.

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3, especially in the production years 2019 to 2022 (i.e., the generation before the major Highland facelift), is the most widespread on the used market but exhibits a number of typical mechanical deficiencies and workmanship issues.

• Chassis and Suspension Arms: An almost guaranteed problem with older cars is the front upper control arms. Due to poor sealing, water penetrates the ball joints, which over time causes loud creaking and squeaking reminiscent of an old carriage. The solution is a complete replacement of the arms.
• Paint and Body Alignment: Models from earlier American production often suffer from visibly poorly aligned body panels. Furthermore, the car's paint is very thin and extremely susceptible to stone chips, which applies especially to the lower edges of the rear doors and sills, where there is a risk of corrosion for cars operated in salted winter environments.
• Heat Pump: In models from 2021 onwards (after the introduction of the heat pump), frequent cabin heating failures occurred in extreme frosts. The problem was caused by faulty sensors in the so-called "Super-manifold" or blocked air intake flaps, which required service intervention.
• Phantom Braking: The Autopilot assistance system is plagued by so-called "phantom braking." A car driving smoothly on the highway may brake sharply without warning due to poor evaluation of shadows or reflections in the camera system. This ailment is characteristic of the Tesla Vision camera system and has no simple mechanical solution.
• Leaks and Condensation: A very common defect in three- and four-year-old used cars is moisture retention and condensation inside the rear lights. In some older cars, water also leaked into the luggage compartment through worn trunk lid seals.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Especially with modern electric cars, it pays not to underestimate the specifics of their high-voltage systems and onboard software. That is why an independent technical inspection of the car's condition, which reveals hidden defects, is the best step before a final decision. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models.

When choosing a Hyundai Ioniq 6:

• ICCU unit and charging check: The most well-known pain point of the E-GMP platform (on which the Ioniq 6 is built) are problems with the ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit). A fault can lead to complete discharge of the 12V battery and the inability to start or charge the vehicle. Request the service history and check if the car has undergone a recall and has the latest software. During the test drive, ideally connect the car to a fast charger for a few minutes and verify that the process runs smoothly and without error messages.
• Tire condition and wear: The Ioniq 6 is a heavy vehicle with instant torque. Especially in rear-wheel-drive versions (but also in AWD models), the rear tires wear out very quickly. Check the tread depth and any uneven wear, which could indicate misaligned rear axle geometry.
• Rattles and interior fit and finish: Although the Ioniq 6 is well soundproofed, harder plastics in some parts of the interior can make noises over bumps. During the test drive, turn down the radio and drive over cobblestones or a rougher road. Focus on the area around the dashboard, center console, and door panels.
• Infotainment speed and response: Check how quickly the system responds to touch and whether the navigation lags. Some earlier software versions suffered from slower reactions. Also, try connecting a phone via cable (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto) to rule out a faulty USB port, which is an occasional problem with Hyundai models.
• Traction battery health (SoH): Ask the seller for the State of Health (SoH) of the battery. For used cars around 3 to 4 years old, degradation should not exceed 5 to 8%. A comprehensive vehicle inspection using diagnostics can reliably reveal the exact state of the cells.

When choosing a Tesla Model 3:

• Squeaking front upper control arms: A very common ailment in both older and newer pre-facelift units. During the test drive, roll down the windows and drive over a speed bump or uneven surface at a lower speed. If you hear a loud squeaking (reminiscent of an old bed), the upper control arms are due for replacement because of moisture penetration into the ball joints.
• Air conditioning odor (HVAC): The air intake design of the Model 3 tends to trap moisture near the cabin filters. Turn the air conditioning on full – if you smell a strong odor reminiscent of wet socks or vinegar, the car needs new filters and a chemical cleaning of the evaporator.
• Condensation in cameras and Autopilot function: Inspect all external cameras (in the B-pillars, fenders, and behind the windshield). If there is fogging or moisture inside the lenses, Autopilot and safety assistants will not function correctly. During a highway test, verify that Autopilot activates without problems and does not suffer from "phantom braking" without an obvious cause.
• Wind noise and window seals: Frameless windows look great, but over time they can lose optimal pressure against the seals. At highway speeds (130 km/h), listen for excessive wind whistle entering the cabin around the A-pillar or the top edge of the windows. Often, just calibrating the window limits in the menu helps, but sometimes seal replacement is necessary.
• Service menu and battery health: Tesla has an integrated "Service Mode" that can be easily accessed via the central display. In this mode, you can read any hidden error codes and run a battery capacity test (though this can take up to 24 hours). If you are not confident with the vehicle's software, a thorough inspection of the used car will ensure you don't buy a vehicle with a hidden software or hardware warning.

Sources: ADAC, forbes.cz, auto.cz, autojournal.cz, autoexpress.cz, autolife.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.