Mazda CX-6e 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 Mazda CX-6e starts from $59,106 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the Mazda CX-6e the more affordable entry point by $6,794.
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 $65,017 and $72,490 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 Mazda CX-6e and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
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 Mazda CX-6e.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 9 in the Mazda CX-6e and 8 in the Tesla Model Y.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda CX-6e features a 26.5-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mazda CX-6e stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and ventilated seats that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay and 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 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 190kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 77.9kWh (Mazda CX-6e) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model Y), giving WLTP ranges of 484km and 620km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Mazda CX-6e) vs 175kW (Tesla Model Y).
Space & Comfort
The Mazda CX-6e measures 4,850mm long on a 2,902mm wheelbase, 58mm longer than the Tesla Model Y at 4,792mm (2,890mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-6e generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 468L in the Mazda CX-6e and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 386L advantage.
For towing, the Tesla Model Y leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 100kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m diameter
Large
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: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-6e) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda CX-6e if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 5 of 8 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
