Tesla Model Y vs Subaru Trailseeker
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.
Tesla Model Y
From $58,900
Price Cut · $7,000 offSUV
Electric Motor
194kW
—
5★ ANCAP
854L
Subaru Trailseeker
From $63,990
Price Cut · $4,000 offSUV
Dual Electric Motor
280kW
—
5★ ANCAP
609L
Price Breakdown
The Tesla Model Y starts from $58,900 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Trailseeker opens at $63,990. That makes the Tesla Model Y the more affordable entry point by $5,090.
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 $64,790 and $70,389 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 Y and Subaru Trailseeker 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 5 in the Subaru Trailseeker.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Tesla Model Y and 8 in the Subaru Trailseeker.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model Y features a 16-inch touchscreen, while the Subaru Trailseeker gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Tesla Model Y stands out with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof and power tailgate that you will not find on the Subaru Trailseeker. The Subaru Trailseeker counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Tesla Model Y gets vegan leather upholstery while the Subaru Trailseeker offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The Tesla Model Y uses a Electric Motor producing 194kW and 340Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds.
The Subaru Trailseeker responds with a Dual Electric Motor making 280kW and 536Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.5 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: 60kWh (Tesla Model Y) vs 74.7kWh (Subaru Trailseeker). DC fast charging peaks at 175kW (Tesla Model Y) vs 150kW (Subaru Trailseeker).
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model Y measures 4,792mm long on a 2,890mm wheelbase, 53mm shorter than the Subaru Trailseeker at 4,845mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model Y generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 854L in the Tesla Model Y and 609L in the Subaru Trailseeker, 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 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m 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 Y) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Trailseeker). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
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.
Buy the Subaru Trailseeker if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 4 of 7 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Tesla Model Y and Subaru Trailseeker?
The Tesla Model Y is the cheapest at $58,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Trailseeker by $5,090.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Subaru Trailseeker has the most range at 533km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model Y accepts the highest DC charging at up to 175kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model Y and Subaru Trailseeker 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 Tesla Model Y has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Trailseeker makes the most power at 280kW. The Subaru Trailseeker is quickest to 100km/h in 4.5s.
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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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