Geely EX5 vs Tesla Model Y
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Geely EX5 starts from $41,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $58,900. That makes the Geely EX5 the more affordable entry point by $16,910.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $46,189 and $64,790 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Geely EX5 and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 8 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Geely EX5 and 8 in the Tesla Model Y. The Geely EX5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Tesla Model Y misses.
Feature Showdown
The Geely EX5 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.2-inch digital dash, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Geely EX5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Geely EX5 runs a pure electric powertrain producing 160kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through its transmission to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y responds with a Electric Motor making 194kW and 340Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y has the clear power advantage at 194kW vs 160kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 1.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 68.4kWh (Geely EX5) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model Y). DC fast charging peaks at 100kW (Geely EX5) vs 175kW (Tesla Model Y).
Space & Comfort
The Geely EX5 measures 4,615mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 177mm shorter than the Tesla Model Y at 4,792mm (2,890mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model Y generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 302L in the Geely EX5 and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 552L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 12.1m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Geely EX5 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Geely's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model Y has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Geely EX5 and Tesla Model Y?
The Geely EX5 is the cheapest at $41,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $16,910.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Geely EX5 has the most range at 475km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model Y accepts the highest DC charging at up to 175kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Geely EX5 and Tesla Model Y all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Tesla Model Y has the largest boot at 854L.
Which can tow the most?
The Tesla Model Y has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Tesla Model Y makes the most power at 194kW. The Tesla Model Y is quickest to 100km/h in 5.9s.
Get ahead of your next car
Join free for new-car launches, news, reviews and buying guides. The independent take on what's new in Australia and what's actually worth buying, no dealer spin. Plus early access and founding-member pricing on the upcoming CarSorted Pro Report. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
By subscribing, you agree to receive marketing emails. You can unsubscribe at any time. View our Privacy Policy.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
