2026 Kia K4 vs 2026 Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 wins clearly, 89.4 to 66.1, on fuel & range. The Kia K4 is ahead on safety.
2026 Kia K4
The 2026 Kia K4 is sold in the U.S. as a gas midsize sedan with 5 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the K4 4DR w/ DMS, is EPA-rated at 33 mp…
2026 Tesla Model 3
The 2026 Tesla Model 3 is sold in the U.S. as a electric midsize sedan with 5 EPA-rated configurations. Its longest-range version, the Model 3 Premium RWD, is E…
2026 Tesla Model 3
Clear winThe Tesla Model 3 wins clearly, 89.4 to 66.1, on fuel & range. The Kia K4 is ahead on safety.
| Category · weight | 2026 Kia K4overall 66.1 | 2026 Tesla Model 3overall 89.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricew 4 | no data | no data |
| Fuel & rangew 3 | 27.2 | 100 |
| Safetyw 4 | 95.2 | 81.5 |
| Space & cargow 2 | no data | no data |
| Performancew 2 | no data | no data |
| Tech & comfortw 3 | no data | no data |
| Warrantyw 2 | no data | no data |
| Overall | 66.1 | 89.4 |
Kia K4: model-level data · Tesla Model 3: model-level data. Pick a trim in the tool to compare any other trim.
Specifications side by side
Safety record
NHTSA recalls, complaints, NCAPKia K4
Top recalls
- highSeat Belts26V135000 · 14,870 vehicles
Tesla Model 3
Top recalls
- highSeats25V410000 · 48 vehicles
Ownership
EPA, manufacturer warranty| Kia K4 | Tesla Model 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | — | — |
| Price range across trims | — | — |
| Powertrains | GAS | BEV |
| EPA configuration compared | K4 4DR w/ DMS | Model 3 Standard RWD |
| Combined mpg / MPGe | 33 | 139 |
| EPA annual fuel cost | $1,900 | $550 |
| EV range | — | 321 mi |
| Basic warranty | — | — |
| Powertrain warranty | — | — |
| Roadside assistance | — | — |
Common questions
Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kitsWhich is better, the 2026 Kia K4 or the 2026 Tesla Model 3?
The Tesla Model 3 wins clearly, 89.4 to 66.1, on fuel & range. The Kia K4 is ahead on safety. On WhichTrim's default weights the 2026 Tesla Model 3 scores 89.4 and the 2026 Kia K4 66.1. The weights are yours to change — move what you care about and the verdict recalculates on the page.
Which has the better safety record, the 2026 Kia K4 or the 2026 Tesla Model 3?
2026 Kia K4: 5 NHTSA stars, grade A, 1 recall. 2026 Tesla Model 3: no NHTSA rating yet, grade A, 1 recall. Crash ratings come from NHTSA's own tests; the grade is WhichTrim's read of the recall record, and the two can disagree.