Mazda CX-80 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 Mazda CX-80 starts from $64,490 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the Mazda CX-80 the more affordable entry point by $1,410.
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 $70,939 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 Mazda CX-80, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mazda CX-80 and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 92% for the Mazda CX-80 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 Mazda CX-80.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda CX-80 and 8 in the Tesla Model Y.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda CX-80 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mazda CX-80 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-80 uses a Petrol producing 209kW and 450Nm 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 Mazda CX-80 has the clear power advantage at 209kW vs 194kW. 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.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda CX-80 measures 4,990mm long on a 3,120mm wheelbase, 198mm longer than the Tesla Model Y at 4,792mm (2,890mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-80 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 550L in the Mazda CX-80 and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 304L advantage. The Mazda CX-80 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Mazda CX-80 leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 400kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m to 12.1m
Based on 11.8m 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: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-80) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda CX-80 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda'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
This is genuinely close. The Mazda CX-80 and Tesla Model Y trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda CX-80 and Tesla Model Y?
The Mazda CX-80 is the cheapest at $64,490 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $1,410.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda CX-80 uses the least fuel at 7.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mazda CX-80 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 Mazda CX-80 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mazda CX-80 makes the most power at 209kW. 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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