GWM Tank 500 vs Tesla Model Y
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs 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 Tank 500 starts from $59,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the GWM Tank 500 the more affordable entry point by $5,910.
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 $65,989 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 Tank 500, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Tank 500 and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 85% for the GWM Tank 500 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 5 in the GWM Tank 500.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Tank 500 features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, 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, power tailgate and ambient lighting that the GWM Tank 500 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the GWM Tank 500 gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Tesla Model Y offers vegan leather.
Drivetrain
The GWM Tank 500 uses a Hybrid producing 255kW and 648Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed auto to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 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 GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 255kW vs 194kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 2.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Tank 500 measures 5,078mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 286mm longer 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 98L in the GWM Tank 500 and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 756L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 1,400kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.1m
Based on 11.2m 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 Tank 500) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Tank 500 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Tank 500 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model Y has a clear edge. The GWM Tank 500 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 Tank 500 and Tesla Model Y?
The GWM Tank 500 is the cheapest at $59,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $5,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Tank 500 uses the least fuel at 8.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GWM Tank 500 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 Tank 500 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The GWM Tank 500 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The GWM Tank 500 makes the most power at 255kW. 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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