Tesla Model Y vs Subaru Trailseeker

The Tesla Model Y starts from $65,900 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Trailseeker opens at $63,990. That makes the Subaru Trailseeker the more affordable entry point by $1,910.

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 $72,490 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.

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.

How long each takes to charge, from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC, estimated from battery size and max charge rates.

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.

The Tesla Model Y uses a Electric Motor producing 255kW 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 255kW. 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).

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.

For towing, the Tesla Model Y leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 1,588kg. That 12kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.

Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.

Warranty: 5 years (Tesla Model Y) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Trailseeker). Both match on warranty length.