Toyota bZ4X vs Tesla Model Y
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.
Price Breakdown
The Toyota bZ4X starts from $59,990 before on-road costs, while the Tesla Model Y opens at $65,900. That makes the Toyota bZ4X the more affordable entry point by $5,910.
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 $65,989 and $72,490 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 Toyota bZ4X and Tesla Model Y hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Toyota bZ4X and 96% for the Tesla Model Y.
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 bZ4X.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Toyota bZ4X and 8 in the Tesla Model Y.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota bZ4X stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y counters with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Toyota bZ4X uses a Electric producing 150kW and 266Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y responds with a Electric Motor making 194kW and 340Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y has the clear power advantage at 194kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 1.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 71.4kWh (Toyota bZ4X) vs 60kWh (Tesla Model Y), giving WLTP ranges of 516km and 620km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Toyota bZ4X) vs 175kW (Tesla Model Y).
Space & Comfort
The Toyota bZ4X measures 4,690mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 102mm shorter than the Tesla Model Y at 4,792mm (2,890mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Tesla Model Y generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the Toyota bZ4X and 854L in the Tesla Model Y, giving the Tesla Model Y a 354L advantage.
For towing, the Tesla Model Y leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 100kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.1m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.1m 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 / 999,999km (Toyota bZ4X) vs 5 years / 80,000km (Tesla Model Y). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota bZ4X if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 7 of 9 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, Toyota bZ4X and Tesla Model Y?
The Toyota bZ4X is the cheapest at $59,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $5,910.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Toyota bZ4X has the most range at 500km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Tesla Model Y accepts the highest DC charging at up to 175kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota bZ4X and Tesla Model Y 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 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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