Mazda CX-6e vs Tesla Model 3
Two electric cars 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 Mazda CX-6e starts from $53,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model 3 opens at $54,900. That makes the Mazda CX-6e the more affordable entry point by $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 $59,389 and $60,390 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
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda CX-6e features a 26.5-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model 3 gets a 15.4-inch display.
The Mazda CX-6e stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, power tailgate and V2L that you will not find on the Tesla Model 3. The Tesla Model 3 counters with ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-6e uses a Electric producing 190kW and 290Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout.
The Tesla Model 3 responds with a Electric Motor making 208kW and 340Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
The Tesla Model 3 has the clear power advantage at 208kW vs 190kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 78kWh (Mazda CX-6e) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model 3). DC fast charging peaks at 194kW (Mazda CX-6e) vs 170kW (Tesla Model 3).
Space & Comfort
The Mazda CX-6e measures 4,850mm long on a 2,902mm wheelbase, 130mm longer than the Tesla Model 3 at 4,720mm (2,875mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-6e generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 363L in the Mazda CX-6e and 682L in the Tesla Model 3, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 319L advantage.
For towing, the Mazda CX-6e leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.6m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.6m 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: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-6e) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model 3). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda CX-6e if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mazda CX-6e takes 6 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model 3 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, Mazda CX-6e and Tesla Model 3?
The Mazda CX-6e is the cheapest at $53,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model 3 by $910.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Tesla Model 3 has the most range at 520km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Mazda CX-6e accepts the highest DC charging at up to 194kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model 3 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 3 has the largest boot at 682L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda CX-6e has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Tesla Model 3 makes the most power at 208kW.
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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