IM6 Luxury vs Tesla Model Y RWD 110

When it comes to electric SUVs, the first model that comes to mind is Tesla's Model Y. Its fame isn't just down to hype, though, for the Model Y is well-sorted and has become known for delivering a proper and seamless EV experience.

Though it remains the best-selling Tesla model globally, the Model Y can't afford to sit still, for its rivals - mostly Chinese - are not far behind. Case in point: The IM6. It's one of the newest kids on the block, but it is well-equipped and promises to impress drivers with a high-tech EV experience.

So, which Cat A electric SUV is more convincing?

The IM6 goes with curvy bodywork, while the Model Y showcases its sharp lines and sporty stance

The walkaround

Imitation, indeed, is the sincerest form of flattery. The IM6's silhouette looks inspired by the Model Y's, with both cars having a low front end, bulbous lines, and pert-looking rear ends with high decklids.

But between the two, it's the Model Y that has a more striking design. The single light bar in front gives it an unmistakable mien, while the rear taillight is a translucent panel. At night, the diffused light signature is instantly recognisable even from afar. Also, a closer look at the body panels reveals sharp lines, giving the Model Y a sportier vibe.

The IM6 has a larger spoiler, but the Model Y's unique taillight is more recognisable from afar

The IM6, on the other hand, has gentler curves on its bodywork, with rounded bulges on the bonnet and bumpers. The head lights are sleeker, and the daytime running lights are fancy 'accent lines'. Surprisingly, however, the IM6 has a larger ducktail spoiler and a more prominent, curved light bar.

Speaking of prominent, the IM6 is longer, wider and taller than the Model Y. Physically, it has more road presence, even if the latter's design is more distinct.

The Model Y's cockpit has better storage, but it looks more spartan compared to the IM6's

Differing personalities

The trend for minimalist EV interiors was pioneered by Tesla and the Model Y's cabin reflects this. There's no instrument panel or heads-up display here; speed and the navigation information are all in the centre screen. Even the gear selector and wiper controls are here - the only stalk on the steering column is the indicator.

The Model Y's steering wheel fits the car's sporty vibe. It has a smaller diameter, a flat bottom, and a more positive grip compared to the IM6's steering wheel.

The Model Y's cockpit will please minimalist types, while the IM6's space caters to drivers who want a high-tech vibe

If it's your first time in either car, the Model Y's infotainment system will take longer to get used to, as the menu layout is more extensive. There's also one thing that would-be buyers must accept here: Tesla doesn't allow Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. That said, you can login to Spotify, and the native navigation is relatively easy to use.

While the Model Y exemplifies minimalism, the IM6 shows how this can be done in a more refined manner. Approach the car and the door handles quietly slide out. Place your hand on the inside and sensors softly pop the door open.

One look at the seats says it all: The IM6 is about cushiness, while the Model Y delivers sportiness

Inside, everything from the upholstery to the materials on the dashboard and door panels has a soft quality to it, unlike the Model Y, which has firmer seats and harder plastics all around.

Just like the Model Y, both the driver and front passenger seats are ventilated, but the IM6's driver seat also comes with massage functions, further enhancing comfort.

The IM6's screens make the cockpit feel even more high-tech than the Model Y's. The 26.3-inch panoramic 'Immersive Touch Screen' integrates the instrument cluster and the infotainment, while the 10.5-inch Central Touch Screen conveniently lets you tweak settings without interrupting what's displayed on the infotainment.

The Model Y's infotainment is a closed system, whereas the IM6 offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Space and practical concerns

For in-cabin convenience, the nod goes to the Model Y, which not only offers a deep storage bin between the front seats, but a glove box as well. It also has four USB-C ports compared to two for the IM6, which doesn't have a glovebox.

The Model Y also offers backseat entertainment, thanks to the 8.0-inch screen that lets passengers watch videos or play games. You won't be wanting for legroom either, thanks to the 2,890mm wheelbase. However, a stronger air-conditioning system, coupled with more heat-resistant glass, would make the rear more comfortable.

The Model Y's backseat caters to those who enjoy their screen time, while the IM6 concentrates on providing a cooler and cosier ambience

Occupants in the IM6, on the other hand, won't be feeling warm at all, as the heat insulation is better and the air-con, stronger. And with an even longer wheelbase length of 2,950mm, the IM6 is even better suited to taller passengers. It also has three headrests, compared to two in the Model Y.

But when it comes to boot space and usability, the Model Y edges ahead. It offers 822 litres with the rear seats up and a cavernous 2,022 litres when they're folded. Another 116 litres is available in the frunk, which can be rinsed. And as a further boost to convenience, the Model Y's rear seats can be electrically folded via the infotainment system.

While the IM6's boot is smaller than the Model Y's, 665 litres isn't tiny either. With the seats folded, the volume rises to 1,640 litres, which is still roomy enough to help someone move house. And the 32-litre frunk is better than having no frunk at all.

The Model Y's boot capacity expands and shrinks at a touch of a button, but it's a manual affair in the IM6

Dynamically different

The Model Y caters to keener drivers with its quicker acceleration and more engaging handling. With 110kW (148bhp) and a healthy 350Nm of torque, it goes from a standstill to 100km/h in 9.6 seconds. That's respectable, considering it weighs over 1.9 tonnes.

The Model Y feels agile for its size. It's no compact hatchback, but it's more willing to follow the driver's lead. It moves in a composed manner, with the small steering wheel and weighty helm adding to the stable feel.

This body control, however, comes at the cost of a firmer ride that doesn't 'round off' bumps and undulations as well as the IM6 does. Keener drivers may find this to be an acceptable exchange, but those who just want a comfortable drive will disagree.

The IM6 provides better ride comfort, while the Model Y delivers nimbler handling

The IM6, on the other hand, tries to shield everyone on board from external roughness. Its cabin seems even quieter than the Model Y's, and the ride-handling balance is tilted towards comfort. The damping is more compliant and deals better with woolly street surfaces.

Outright performance isn't a priority for the IM6. Its electric motor produces 109kW (146bhp) and an even stouter 450Nm of torque, but the car's 2,280kg means the century sprint takes 11.6 seconds or two seconds more than the Model Y. But it more than makes up for this with its excellent suite of driver assistance systems that include not one, but four automated parking functions.

The Model Y has a smaller battery, but offers a bit more range than the IM6

In terms of range and charging, the IM6 has a 75kWh battery - maximum charging speeds are 11kW for AC and 153kW with a DC plug, while the claimed range is 450km.

Meanwhile, the Model Y has a smaller 62.5kWh battery that covers up to 466km. Like the IM6, the Model Y has an AC charging speed of 11kW, but its DC speed is a higher 175kW. In addition, the Model Y driver benefits from the convenient Supercharger network.

Deciding factors

It may not be the cushiest electric SUV around, but the Model Y does so many things right. It scores high on practicality, drivability and charging. And at $202,999, it's also nearly $27,000 less than the IM6. On paper, it seems like the obvious choice, and if were in my 30s instead of my 40s, I would have picked it, too.

Today, I find myself more drawn to the IM6, which is not only more refined, but more polished as well. Its cabin is literally cooler and filled with soft-touch materials, the infotainment is more user-friendly, and the overall drive is more comfortable as well.

Which is just as well, since the weather is only going to get warmer, and the roads aren't going to become smoother anytime soon. All things considered, the IM6 proves even more convincing than the Model Y.

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