Tesla Model Y vs Toyota RAV4
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.
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Price Breakdown
The Tesla Model Y starts from $65,900 before on-road costs, while the Toyota RAV4 opens at $28,490. That makes the Toyota RAV4 the more affordable entry point by $37,410.
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 $31,339 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 RAV4, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Tesla Model Y and Toyota RAV4 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 8 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Tesla Model Y, against 0 on the Toyota RAV4.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. Airbag count is 8 in the Tesla Model Y and 7 in the Toyota RAV4.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge, from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC, estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
57.5kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 175kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 175kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Tesla Model Y stands out with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Toyota RAV4. 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 RAV4 offers cloth.
Drivetrain
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 Toyota RAV4 responds with a Petrol making 107kW and 187Nm, paired to a 6-speed manual driving the front wheels.
The Tesla Model Y has the clear power advantage at 255kW vs 107kW. 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, 222mm longer than the Toyota RAV4 at 4,570mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model Y generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 854L in the Tesla Model Y and 577L in the Toyota RAV4, giving the Tesla Model Y a 277L advantage.
For towing, the Tesla Model Y leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 800kg. That 800kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m 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 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Tesla Model Y) vs 3 years / 100,000km (Toyota RAV4). The Tesla Model Y has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota RAV4 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 4 of 5 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Tesla Model Y has a clear edge. The Tesla Model Y adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. 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 RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 is the cheapest at $28,490 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $37,410.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota RAV4 uses the least fuel at 7.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model Y and Toyota RAV4 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 has the best warranty?
The Tesla Model Y has the longest warranty at 5 years / 0k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Tesla Model Y makes the most power at 255kW.
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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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