SYDNEY, 23 February 2026 – The Tesla Model Y continues to dominate the Australian electric vehicle landscape, bolstered by recent accolades and significant updates to its local line-up. As of today, the mid-size SUV remains a top choice for families, recently securing the “Best Electric Vehicle Under $60K” title from Drive, while new “Uber-spec” variants are set to expand the range further in 2026.
Latest Updates: Six-Seater and Financing Deals
In a major development for the Australian market, Tesla has received import approval for an extended-body, six-seater variant of the Model Y. This new configuration is expected to launch later this year, providing a more versatile three-row option for those requiring additional passenger capacity without moving up to the larger Model X.
On the pricing front, Tesla has recently adjusted its strategy to boost sales. In the United States, the company has introduced aggressive 0% financing for certain Model Y trims, while Australian buyers have seen the RWD variant settle at a competitive $58,900 plus on-road costs. Additionally, a new “Premium” trim update has been rolled out for the 2026 model year, featuring minor interior refinements, though the base “Standard” version remains unchanged from its 2025 refresh.
Specifications and Performance
The Model Y, often referred to by its “Project Juniper” internal refresh name for recent iterations, offers a blend of performance and utility. The vehicle maintains its class-leading drag coefficient of 0.23, contributing to its efficiency across all three primary trims.
| Feature | RWD (Standard) | Long Range AWD | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | ~60 kWh | 75 – 82 kWh | 82.1 kWh (Usable) |
| Range (WLTP/EPA) | ~455 km (WLTP) | ~533 km (WLTP) | ~514 km (WLTP) |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.9 seconds | 5.0 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 217 km/h | 217 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Max Cargo Volume | 2,158 L | 2,158 L | 2,158 L |
Public Insight and Ownership
Consumer sentiment remains high, with recent reports from Consumer Reports naming Tesla the most satisfying EV brand to drive. Owners frequently cite the vehicle’s rapid acceleration and the intuitive “Graphic Traffic Display” on the central screen as standout features. However, some long-term owners have noted significant depreciation, with 2021 models reportedly losing 50% to 60% of their value over five years due to rapid market shifts and frequent price adjustments by the manufacturer.
Reliability discussions on platforms like Reddit suggest that the Model Y is considered a strong candidate for decade-long ownership, provided buyers are aware of potential out-of-warranty costs for high-voltage components following physical damage, such as severe pothole impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting price of the Tesla Model Y in Australia?
As of February 2026, the Tesla Model Y RWD starts at approximately $58,900 plus on-road costs. Prices may vary based on state-based incentives and delivery fees.
Is there a seven-seater Model Y available?
While a seven-seater has been available in other markets, Australia is currently awaiting the launch of a newly confirmed six-seater variant with an extended body, expected to arrive later in 2026.
How long does it take to charge a Model Y?
Using a Tesla Supercharger, the Model Y can regain up to 261 km of range in about 15 minutes. Home charging via a Wall Connector typically takes 8 to 12 hours for a full charge from empty.
What is the warranty on the battery?
Tesla provides a Battery and Drive Unit warranty for 8 years or 160,000 km (whichever comes first) for the RWD model, and 8 years or 192,000 km for the Long Range and Performance variants, with minimum 70% retention of battery capacity.