Tesla Model 3 vs Mazda 6e
Two electric Sedans 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 Tesla Model 3 starts from $54,900 before on-road costs, while the Mazda 6e opens at $49,990. That makes the Mazda 6e the more affordable entry point by $4,910.
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 $60,390 and $54,989 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
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Tesla Model 3 stands out with ambient lighting that you will not find on the Mazda 6e. The Mazda 6e counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Tesla Model 3 uses a Electric Motor producing 208kW and 340Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds.
The Mazda 6e responds with a Electric Motor making 180kW and 320Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The Tesla Model 3 has the clear power advantage at 208kW vs 180kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model 3 is 1.8s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 60kWh (Tesla Model 3) vs 80kWh (Mazda 6e), giving WLTP ranges of 620km and 552km. DC fast charging peaks at 170kW (Tesla Model 3) vs 95kW (Mazda 6e).
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model 3 measures 4,720mm long on a 2,875mm wheelbase, 201mm shorter than the Mazda 6e at 4,921mm (2,895mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda 6e generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 682L in the Tesla Model 3 and 466L in the Mazda 6e, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 216L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
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 / 80,000km (Tesla Model 3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda 6e). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda 6e if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model 3 takes 6 of 8 key spec categories. 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.
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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