Lexus NX vs Tesla Model Y

The Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $58,900. That makes the Tesla Model Y the more affordable entry point by $1,000.

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 $65,890 and $64,790 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 Lexus NX, as a petrol model, does not qualify.

Both the Lexus NX and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX 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 Lexus NX.

Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Lexus NX and 8 in the Tesla Model Y.

The Lexus NX features a 9.8-inch touchscreen paired with a 8-inch digital dash, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.

The Lexus NX stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay and panoramic roof. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.

Interior trim differs: the Lexus NX gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Tesla Model Y offers vegan leather.

The Lexus NX uses a Petrol producing 152kW and 243Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 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 152kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 3.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.

The Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 132mm 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 520L in the Lexus NX and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 334L advantage.

For towing, the Lexus NX leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 50kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.

Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.

Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). The Tesla Model Y has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.