Tesla has finally made its entry into the Indian market. The long-awaited foray has sparked excitement, with the Model Y launching at an introductory Rs 59.89 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). But the premium EV SUV faces stiff competition—not just from electric vehicles but also from powerful luxury SUVs and performance crossovers in the same price range.
Here's a look at top alternatives to the Tesla Model Y, and where the Model Y stands in the current market trends.
Kia EV6
Price: Rs 60.95 lakh (GT Line AWD, ex-showroom Mumbai)
Powertrain: Dual-motor AWD | 325hp | 77.4kWh battery
Range: 708 km (ARAI-certified)
Highlights: Striking design, long range, premium cabin, ultra-fast 350kW DC charging
Why consider: Best blend of practicality and performance among EVs.
Audi Q3 Sportback
Price: Rs 54.65 lakh
Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo-petrol | 190hp | Quattro AWD
Highlights: Sporty coupe design, Audi MMI UI, panoramic sunroof
Why consider: German engineering with brand cachet and performance.
BMW X1 sDrive18d M Sport
Price: Rs 52.50 lakh
Powertrain: 2.0L Diesel | 150hp | FWD
Highlights: Modern interior, excellent driving dynamics, digital key
Why consider: A refined, premium compact SUV with strong after-sales support.
Mini Cooper S 3-Door Hatch
Price: Rs 43.90 lakh
Powertrain: 2.0L Turbo-petrol | 192hp
Highlights: Go-kart handling, iconic retro design, compact luxury
Why consider: A lifestyle car for enthusiasts wanting exclusivity and urban agility.
Toyota Fortuner Legender 4x4 AT
Price: Rs 52.26 lakh
Powertrain: 2.8L Diesel | 204hp | 4WD
Highlights: Unmatched road presence, bulletproof reliability, resale value
Why consider: Rugged SUV for long-distance touring and off-roading.
Mercedes-Benz GLA 220d 4MATIC
Price: Rs 54.75 lakh
Powertrain: 2.0L Diesel | 190hp | AWD
Highlights: Tech-laden cabin, smooth drivetrain, brand luxury
Why consider: Stylish and efficient with solid driving feel.
Volvo XC40 Ultimate
Price: ₹54.95 lakh
Powertrain: Single motor (RWD) | 252 hp | 69 kWh battery
Highlights: Clean Scandinavian design, Google built-in, 592 km ARAI range
Why consider: Excellent safety, premium features, and strong real-world EV range for luxury buyers
MG Gloster Savvy 6-seater 4WD
Price: Rs 43.05 lakh
Powertrain: 2.0L Twin-turbo Diesel | 218hp | 4WD
Highlights: ADAS Level 2, large size, captain seats
Why consider: A tech-heavy, full-size SUV with presence and space.
Still hung up on Tesla? Here's what's unique about the Model Y:
- Fully Electric: 533 km claimed range (WLTP); silent, zero-emission driving
- Autopilot + Full Self Driving Hardware: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto Lane Change
- 15-inch central touchscreen: Controls everything from air vents to navigation
- OTA updates: Tesla cars improve over time with software updates
- Minimalist cabin: No instrument cluster; panoramic glass roof
- Tesla app integration: Controls climate, unlock, location tracking remotely
- Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in just 5 seconds (Long Range variant)
- Charging ecosystem (coming soon): Tesla Superchargers expected to roll out in India gradually
With Tesla's focus on software-driven vehicles and upcoming integration into India's charging network, the Model Y can be an attractive proposition for tech-savvy urban buyers looking to transition to electric without compromising on performance or practicality.
But buyers in the Rs 50–60 lakh segment are spoilt for choice. Whether one values EV tech, off-road capabilities, German luxury, or futuristic software experiences, there's a compelling car in the market for everyone. The Tesla Model Y enters a hotly contested arena—and the final choice may come down to how much the buyer values Tesla's promise of a smarter, software-first driving future.
