Tesla Model 3 vs Mazda CX-6e
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 Tesla Model 3 starts from $54,900 before on-road costs, while the Mazda CX-6e opens at $59,106. That makes the Tesla Model 3 the more affordable entry point by $4,206.
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 $65,017 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 Tesla Model 3 and Mazda CX-6e hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Tesla Model 3 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 8 in the Tesla Model 3 and 9 in the Mazda CX-6e.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model 3 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen, while the Mazda CX-6e gets a 26.5-inch display.
The Tesla Model 3 stands out with ambient lighting that you will not find on the Mazda CX-6e. The Mazda CX-6e counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats 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 CX-6e responds with a Electric making 190kW and 290Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
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: 60kWh (Tesla Model 3) vs 77.9kWh (Mazda CX-6e), giving WLTP ranges of 620km and 484km. DC fast charging peaks at 170kW (Tesla Model 3) vs 150kW (Mazda CX-6e).
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model 3 measures 4,720mm long on a 2,875mm wheelbase, 130mm shorter than the Mazda CX-6e at 4,850mm (2,902mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-6e generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 682L in the Tesla Model 3 and 468L in the Mazda CX-6e, giving the Tesla Model 3 a 214L 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.
11.6m 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 CX-6e). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model 3 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-6e if: You need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model 3 takes 5 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, Tesla Model 3 and Mazda CX-6e?
The Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest at $54,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mazda CX-6e by $4,206.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Mazda CX-6e has the most range at 600km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model 3 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 170kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model 3 and Mazda CX-6e 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
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
