Kia EV5 and Tesla Model Y are two of the most interesting electric SUVs in Sweden in 2025. Both offer long range, spacious interiors and modern technology – but with completely different philosophies. Here we do an honest, detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
Overview
| Kia EV5 | Tesla Model Y LR | |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | 553 900 kr | 529 900 kr |
| Battery | 84 kWh | ~75 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 530 km | 533 km |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.5 s | 5.0 s |
| DC 10–80% | 27 min | 25 min |
| Cargo space | 566 L | 854 L |
| Frunk | 25 L | 117 L |
| Towing capacity | 2 000 kg | 1 600 kg |
| Seats | 5 | 5 (+2 optional) |
| Warranty | 7 years / 150 000 km | 4 years / 80 000 km |
| V2L | Yes (standard) | No |
| OTA updates | Yes | Yes (more frequent) |
Performance
In terms of range it is almost a tie: Kia EV5 reaches 530 km and Model Y LR 533 km according to WLTP. In real-world Swedish driving both can deliver 400–450 km in mixed traffic and 350–380 km in winter.
Charging: Tesla has a slight advantage with 25 minutes 10–80% compared to the EV5's 27 minutes. The difference is marginal in practice. The EV5 uses 400V architecture while Tesla has its own architecture – both support the CCS standard.
Consumption: The EV5 consumes approximately 17.4 kWh/100 km while the Model Y is around 15.7 kWh/100 km. Tesla is more efficient, which explains the similar range despite the smaller battery.
Winter: Both have a heat pump as standard, which helps range in Swedish winter conditions. The EV5 has the advantage of an insulated battery conditioning feature that preheats the battery when navigating to a fast charger.
Comfort
This is where the philosophies differ markedly. EV5 has a traditional dashboard with dual screens (12.3" + 12.3"), physical buttons for climate and volume, and a conventional layout that most people will recognise. The material quality is good with soft surfaces and ambient lighting.
Model Y takes minimalist design to its extreme: a single 15.4-inch central screen controls everything. No physical buttons, no analogue instruments. It is elegant but requires an adjustment period. The newer Juniper version (2025) has significantly improved the interior with better materials and a new instrument display.
Space: Model Y clearly wins the cargo space with 854 L against the EV5's 566 L. Tesla also has a larger frunk (117 L vs 25 L). But the EV5 wins on towing capacity: 2 000 kg against Tesla's 1 600 kg – decisive if you tow a caravan or boat trailer.
The EV5 has V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) as standard – a 230V outlet with 3.6 kW output. Perfect for camping, tools or emergency power. Model Y lacks this feature entirely.
Economy
Model Y LR is somewhat cheaper to purchase (529 900 kr vs 553 900 kr), but the total cost of ownership is affected by several factors:
| Cost | Kia EV5 | Tesla Model Y LR |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | 553 900 kr | 529 900 kr |
| Warranty | 7 years | 4 years |
| Service (per visit) | approx. 2 000 kr | approx. 3 000 kr |
| Insurance (approx./year) | approx. 6 000 kr | approx. 8 000 kr |
| Residual value (3 years) | ~55% | ~60% |
The EV5 compensates for its somewhat higher purchase price with lower service and insurance costs and 3 years longer warranty. See Kia EV5 price for detailed pricing information.
Infrastructure
Tesla Supercharger: Tesla's own fast-charging network is still the most reliable in Sweden with over 100 stations. Most Superchargers are now open to all CCS vehicles (including the EV5), but Tesla owners have priority and often lower prices.
Public CCS network: IONITY, Mer, Recharge and other operators are expanding rapidly in Sweden. The EV5 and Model Y can use all CCS chargers. The gap is closing every year, but Tesla still has an advantage in reliability and app integration.
Home charging: Both cars support 11 kW AC charging (type 2). Full charge in 7–8 hours. No difference here.
Our verdict
Both are excellent choices. The EV5 is the safer family car with a longer warranty and better towing capacity. The Model Y is the sportier tech car with more cargo space and faster acceleration. There is no objectively "better" choice – it comes down to what you prioritise.
Want to explore more options? See more comparisons or explore all electric cars in Sweden.
Common questions
Tesla Model Y LR is somewhat cheaper to purchase (529 900 kr vs 553 900 kr). But the EV5 has lower service and insurance costs and a 3-year longer warranty, which can make it cheaper overall.
Practically identical: EV5 530 km, Model Y LR 533 km (WLTP). In reality both get 400–450 km in mixed driving. The difference is negligible.
Yes, most Tesla Superchargers in Sweden are now open to all CCS vehicles. You can charge via the Tesla app, but the price may be higher than for Tesla owners.
Both work excellently. Model Y has more cargo space (854 vs 566 L) and an optional 7-seat configuration. The EV5 has better towing capacity (2 000 vs 1 600 kg) and V2L for camping. It depends on the family's needs.