Head-to-head
Tesla Model 3 vs Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model 3 starts $10,000 (14%) below the Tesla Model Y. Here's how that price gap plays out across range, charging, safety and warranty.
Option A · Sedan
Tesla Model 3
The refreshed 'Highland' Model 3 brings sharper styling, a quieter cabin and improved ride. It remains Australia's benchmark mid-size electric sedan and the gateway to Tesla's Supercharger network.
- From
- $61,990
- Range
- 513 km
- Battery
- 60 kWh
Option B · SUV
Tesla Model Y
Australia's best-selling EV by a wide margin, the Model Y combines crossover practicality with the Tesla software and Supercharger ecosystem. The 'Juniper' refresh addresses many of the original's ride and cabin gripes.
- From
- $71,990
- Range
- 466 km
- Battery
- 62.5 kWh
Key differences at a glance
The biggest material gaps between the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y, ranked by how much they're likely to matter day-to-day.
- 1
Range · advantage Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 goes 47 km further on a charge (513 vs 466 km WLTP).
- 2
Boot · advantage Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y swallows 260 L more cargo with the rear seats up (854 vs 594 L).
- 3
Price · advantage Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $10,000 (14%) on starting price.
- 4
Efficiency · advantage Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is 1.4 kWh/100 km more efficient (13.2 vs 14.6), translating to cheaper running costs.
Spec for spec
Highlighted cells show the better number in each row.
Where the Tesla Model 3 wins
- ▸ Cheaper by $10,000
- ▸ 47 km longer WLTP range
Where the Tesla Model Y wins
- ▸ Quicker 0–100 km/h (5.9s vs 6.1s)
Tesla Model 3
What we like
- ✓ Access to the Tesla Supercharger network
- ✓ Industry-leading efficiency
- ✓ Frequent over-the-air improvements
What we don't
- ✕ Stalk-less indicators frustrate many drivers
- ✕ Build quality remains variable
- ✕ Short 4-year vehicle warranty
Tesla Model Y
What we like
- ✓ Huge boot and frunk for family use
- ✓ Supercharger network access
- ✓ Strong residual values
What we don't
- ✕ Firm ride on 19-inch wheels
- ✕ Minimalist cabin polarises buyers
- ✕ No Android Auto / Apple CarPlay
Frequently asked: Tesla Model 3 vs Tesla Model Y
Quick answers to the questions cross-shoppers most often ask about this pair.
- Which is cheaper, the Tesla Model 3 or the Tesla Model Y?
- The Tesla Model 3 is the cheaper of the two — it starts at $61,990 versus $71,990 for the Tesla Model Y, a $10,000 difference. Prices shown are manufacturer recommended retail excluding on-road costs.
- Which has the longer driving range?
- The Tesla Model 3 has the longer WLTP-claimed range at 513 km, 47 km further than the Tesla Model Y's 466 km. Real-world range typically lands 10–20% below the WLTP figure depending on speed, terrain, climate and load.
- Is the Tesla Model 3 better value than the Tesla Model Y?
- On paper the Tesla Model 3 is $10,000 cheaper, but the Tesla Model Y edges ahead on most other measurable specs. Whether the saving justifies the gap depends on which features matter most to you, and how much weight you give to brand and dealer factors.
Which one should you buy?
The short version, based on where each car pulls ahead.
Choose the
Tesla Model 3
if…
- ✓ you want to save $10,000 on the sticker
- ✓ maximum range matters (47 km further per charge)
- ✓ you match the profile: long-distance drivers
Choose the
Tesla Model Y
if…
- ✓ you regularly load it up (260 L more boot)
- ✓ you match the profile: families
Verdict reasoning is derived from published specs; brand preference, dealer experience and how a car drives are personal — always take a test drive before deciding.