Subaru Trailseeker 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 Subaru Trailseeker starts from $67,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the Tesla Model Y the more affordable entry point by $2,090.
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 $74,789 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
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 Subaru Trailseeker features a 14-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Tesla Model Y gets a 16-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Subaru Trailseeker stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and heated front seats that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Trailseeker uses a Dual Electric Motor producing 280kW and 536Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.5 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 Subaru Trailseeker has the clear power advantage at 280kW vs 194kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Trailseeker is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 74.7kWh (Subaru Trailseeker) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model Y), giving WLTP ranges of 533km and 620km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Subaru Trailseeker) vs 175kW (Tesla Model Y).
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Trailseeker measures 4,845mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 53mm 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 609L in the Subaru Trailseeker and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 245L advantage.
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: 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Trailseeker) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Trailseeker if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 5 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. 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
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