GWM Cannon Alpha vs Tesla Model Y
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 GWM Cannon Alpha starts from $52,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the GWM Cannon Alpha the more affordable entry point by $12,910.
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 $58,289 and $72,490 respectively.
The Tesla Model Y qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The GWM Cannon Alpha, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Cannon Alpha and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the GWM Cannon Alpha and 96% for the Tesla Model Y.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Tesla Model Y packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the GWM Cannon Alpha.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GWM Cannon Alpha and 8 in the Tesla Model Y.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Cannon Alpha features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Tesla Model Y counters with panoramic roof and ambient lighting that the GWM Cannon Alpha does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses a 2.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel producing 135kW and 480Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 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 135kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 4.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Cannon Alpha measures 5,445mm long on a 3,350mm wheelbase, 653mm longer than the Tesla Model Y at 4,792mm (2,890mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon Alpha generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the GWM Cannon Alpha leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 1,900kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m to 13.0m
Based on 13.0m 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.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). The GWM Cannon Alpha has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Cannon Alpha if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The GWM Cannon Alpha and Tesla Model Y trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The GWM Cannon Alpha adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, GWM Cannon Alpha and Tesla Model Y?
The GWM Cannon Alpha is the cheapest at $52,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $12,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses the least fuel at 8.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GWM Cannon Alpha 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 GWM Cannon Alpha has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The GWM Cannon Alpha has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
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.
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
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