Tesla Model 3 vs Kia Sportage: Running Costs in Queensland
Data verified April 2025
At this driving profile, the Kia Sportage is the more economical choice over 5 years in Queensland.
Running only 15,000 km per year in Queensland, the Tesla Model 3's higher purchase price doesn't fully pay back through lower running costs within 5 years. The Tesla Model 3 costs $108,047 in total versus $79,193 for the Kia Sportage — a difference of $28,854. The numbers don't reach break-even within this holding period. If you drive significantly more km per year, or if petrol prices rise substantially, this comparison would shift. The Tesla Model 3 still avoids around 4,574 kg of CO₂ over the ownership period.
The economics don't stack up at this driving distance — increase annual km or extend the holding period to change the picture.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 cheaper than the Kia Sportage over 5 years in Queensland?
At 15,000 km/yr in Queensland the Kia Sportage is the cheaper option over 5 years: $79,193 total versus $108,047 for the Tesla Model 3. Use the calculator to adjust for your situation.
Does the Tesla Model 3 break even against the Kia Sportage in Queensland?
At 15,000 km/yr in Queensland the Tesla Model 3 does not fully recover its price premium within a 5-year holding period. Higher annual km or an extended holding period would change this.
How much does it cost to charge the Tesla Model 3 vs fuel the Kia Sportage per year in Queensland?
At 15,000 km/yr in Queensland, charging the Tesla Model 3 costs approximately $722/yr, versus $2,282/yr in petrol for the Kia Sportage. Queensland's electricity and fuel rates are applied automatically.