Tesla Model Y vs Toyota Kluger
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 Y starts from $65,900 before on-road costs, while the Toyota Kluger opens at $62,410. That makes the Toyota Kluger the more affordable entry point by $3,490.
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 $68,651 respectively.
The Tesla Model Y qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Toyota Kluger, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Tesla Model Y and Toyota Kluger hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 96% for the Tesla Model Y and 96% for the Toyota Kluger.
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 Toyota Kluger.
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 7 in the Toyota Kluger.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model Y features a 16-inch touchscreen, while the Toyota Kluger gets a 8-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Tesla Model Y stands out with panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Toyota Kluger. 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 Toyota Kluger offers cloth. Climate control is 2-zone in the Tesla Model Y and 3-zone in the Toyota Kluger.
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 Toyota Kluger responds with a 2.5L 4-cyl Hybrid making 184kW and 242Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y has the clear power advantage at 194kW vs 184kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 2.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Tesla Model Y measures 4,792mm long on a 2,890mm wheelbase, 174mm shorter than the Toyota Kluger at 4,966mm (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 241L in the Toyota Kluger, giving the Tesla Model Y a 613L advantage. The Toyota Kluger seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Toyota Kluger leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 400kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m 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 11.4m 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 (Toyota Kluger). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota Kluger if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. 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 Toyota Kluger?
The Toyota Kluger is the cheapest at $62,410 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $3,490.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota Kluger uses the least fuel at 5.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model Y and Toyota Kluger 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 Toyota Kluger has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Tesla Model Y makes the most power at 194kW. The Tesla Model Y is quickest to 100km/h in 5.9s.
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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