Tesla Model Y vs Ford Ranger
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 Ford Ranger opens at $37,130. That makes the Ford Ranger the more affordable entry point by $28,770.
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 $40,843 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 Ford Ranger, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Tesla Model Y and Ford Ranger hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 96% for the Tesla Model Y and 84% for the Ford Ranger.
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 Ford Ranger.
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 9 in the Ford Ranger.
Feature Showdown
The Tesla Model Y features a 16-inch touchscreen, while the Ford Ranger gets a 12-inch display and 8-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Tesla Model Y stands out with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Ford Ranger. The Ford Ranger counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. 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 Ford Ranger offers cloth.
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 Ford Ranger responds with a Diesel Turbo making 125kW and 405Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y has the clear power advantage at 194kW vs 125kW. In the real-world sprint, the Tesla Model Y is 4.6s 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, 433mm shorter than the Ford Ranger at 5,225mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Ford Ranger generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the Ford Ranger leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 1,900kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m to 12.9m
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.9m 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 (Ford Ranger). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Tesla Model Y if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Tesla's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Ford Ranger if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Ford's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Tesla Model Y takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. 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 Ford Ranger?
The Ford Ranger is the cheapest at $37,130 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $28,770.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Ford Ranger uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Tesla Model Y and Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
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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