The Tesla Model Y The Tesla Model 3 remains Australia’s top-selling electric vehicle (EV) by quite a distance, with an enhanced version set to arrive soon.
If you're looking for a mid-sized electric SUV, this seems to be the obvious option, doesn’t it?
That’s precisely why one company after another is targeting the Model Y directly.
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Rivals include the BYD Sealion 7 , Deepal S07 , Ford Mustang Mach-E , Hyundai Ioniq 5 , Kia EV5 and EV6 , Leapmotor C10 , Subaru Solterra , Toyota bZ4X and Xpeng G6 .
You might also consider several comparably priced yet smaller electric vehicle options available now. Additionally, there will be more direct competitors entering the market soon, such as the Cupra Tavascan , Geely EX5 , Nissan Ariya , and Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 .
Wow, did we overlook anything?
The competition is intensifying, which will likely work to the advantage of buyers – especially those considering switching away from Tesla.
Perhaps you’re sick of how common Teslas have become, or you dislike the company’s CEO. Maybe you just feel strongly about wanting an actual instrument cluster.
No matter what your reasons are for seeking an option other than the Model Y, the CarExpert The team has presented several proposals.
Tell us your choice in the section below!
Max Davies: BYD Sea Lion 7
After testing several new electric SUVs from China, it appears that the Sealion 7 has the strongest potential to pose a significant challenge to Tesla.
Apart from its robust construction and affordable price point, the Sealion 7 holds a significant edge over competitors such as Deepal, Leapmotor, and Xpeng due to BYD's rapid foothold in the domestic market.
BYD has confidently entered the Australian market with a well-thought-out range of vehicles, with additional models set to arrive soon. The launch of their Seal, Sealion 6, and Shark 6 demonstrates that they are catering specifically to what Australians want, as evidenced by their impressive sales numbers—though these have occasionally been hampered by delays at Australia’s ports, naturally.
The Deepal S07, Leapmotor C10, and XPeng G6 – with the latter garnering notably favorable reviews initially – face the task of both initiating their local marketing efforts and establishing their brand presence simultaneously.
I can't shake the feeling that if any of these manufacturers fail to come up with something distinctive or notably superior to their competitors, they won't last much longer.
Certainly, some individuals may hesitate to choose the Model Y and might take a chance on competing brands similar to how they approached Tesla around 10 years back when it entered the Australian market. On the other hand, many could opt for alternatives like the Sealion 7 and consider BYD overall; this automotive brand offers a wider range of options compared to what Tesla has offered historically and potentially into the future.
If you're thinking about purchasing a BYD Sealion 7, connect with one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything BYD Sealion 7
Sean Lander: Hyundai Santa Fe
I understand, this might seem quite out-of-the-box, but they come at a comparable price point. You could opt for a hybrid version instead (the Elite Hybrid goes for $65,000), plus it has an equally unconventional appearance, though viewed from a distinct angle.
Apart from appearances, the Santa Fe boasts superior features compared to a Model Y and offers greater interior space along with additional seating options.
And if they ever introduce the PHEV to Australia, you could utilize a Tesla charger for it and demonstrate what true audacious design entails.
If you're thinking about purchasing a Hyundai Santa Fe, reach out to one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Purchase a Hyundai Santa Fe
Jordan Mulach: BYD Sea Lion 7
It’s extremely difficult to overlook the BYD Sealion 7, not least because this model represents a brand that has firmly established itself in Australia and is beginning to thrive independently.
The associated Seal sedan is commendable, making the prospect of upgrading to the more roomy Sea Lion 7 an enticing one.
The latest price hike for the updated Model Y Juniper edition also enhances the appeal of the Sealion 7, particularly in its Performance variant, making it likely one of the most worthwhile purchases available.
Initially, I had reservations about BYD when they aimed to make their mark with the Atto 3. However, the Seal, Sea Lion 6, and Shark 6 have demonstrated thus far that they understand consumer preferences.
If you're thinking about purchasing a BYD Sealion 7, reach out to one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything BYD Sealion 7
Marton Pettendy: Nissan X-Trail e-Power
No, it’s not an electric vehicle, but this midsize SUV offers much more appealing styling compared to a Tesla Model Y, and you won’t have to worry about ending up with a dead battery or dealing with slow charging stations or malfunctioning chargers.
Still, it handles much like an electric vehicle, provides superior suspension comfort, achieves fuel economy akin to a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, along with having a remarkable range of 900 kilometers.
Plus, it includes a decade-long warranty along with support from nearly 200 dealerships spread across the country.
For slightly under $51,000, this vehicle’s cost of entry is less than that of a Model Y and comparable to numerous mid-size electric SUVs manufactured in China.
Certainly, every variant of the X-Trail e-Power is more affordable compared to any model from Juniper. For just $60K (excluding on-road fees), the top-tier Ti-L edition comes equipped with all the most recent features for safety, entertainment, and comfort, eliminating the need to interact through a touch screen.
If you're thinking about purchasing a Nissan X-Trail, connect with one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything Nissan X-Trail
Jack Quick: Kia EV5
Following my experience with several new Chinese electric SUVs, I continually find myself gravitating towards the Kia EV5 for day-to-day use.
Actually, many individuals might find themselves well-matched with the entry-level EV5 Air Standard Range, boasting a WLTP-rated range of 400 kilometers. Nevertheless, at an initial cost of $56,770 excluding on-road fees, its price tag may not be as appealing when compared to certain new entrants from lesser-known brands.
Even so, the EV5 gives off the impression of being one of the few electric SUVs that drive akin to conventional cars, which could be significantly more appealing for those transitioning from gas-powered vehicles. While it does feature a sizable curved display for entertainment purposes, it doesn’t seem as though the whole driving experience revolves solely around this technology.
While its handling leans towards a more comfort-focused experience, this is typical for SUVs as their elevated stance and greater body roll naturally detract from sports-car-like agility.
If you're thinking about purchasing a Kia EV5, connect with one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything Kia EV5
William Stopford: Cupra Formentor VZe
Absolutely, absolutely, I've listened to all the plug-in hybrid grievances.
“It requires double the maintenance!”
It's akin to lugging snow boots around throughout the year when you'll only visit the snowy areas a handful of times!
Sure thing. The reality is, an electric vehicle (EV) isn't right for me at present. This doesn't mean it might not be suitable down the line, but for now, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offers a more balanced option for what I require.
I've got a weakness for the Cupra Formentor in every version, despite its sometimes annoying controls and entertainment setup. Admittedly, it's not as large as a Model Y, yet it offers a superior interior experience. Its smaller size also makes it more agile and fun to handle on the road.
A new version of the model will be released later this year, offering significantly greater electric range compared to the present one.
However, if an electric vehicle fits your requirements, the Model Y offers great value, and as previously stated, several new Chinese competitors are eager to challenge its position.
Among these models, the BYD Sealion 7 and Xpeng G6 seem to be the strongest contenders, however, I have not been able to test-drive either of them as yet.
Apart from the competition from Chinese brands, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has consistently appealed to me due to its unique design both internally and externally. However, following recent price revisions, the Ford Mustang Mach-E now turns up as more affordable.
If you're thinking about purchasing a Cupra Formentor, connect with one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything Cupra Formentor
James Wong: Nissan X-Trail with e-Power
Sure, I understand it’s not an electric vehicle. However, if I were looking to buy an electrified mid-sized family SUV, I’m not sure I would opt for one of theEV choices priced similarly to the baseModel Y.
The X-Trail e-Power provides many of the driving traits of an electric vehicle – offering seamless, efficient, and silent operation along with nearly single-pedal control – all while eliminating the inconvenience of needing to plug in.
For just above $65,000 drive-away, you can get a completely equipped Ti-L model featuring quilted Nappa leather upholstery available in tan as well; two 12.3-inch screens; partial autonomous driving capabilities; and an exceptionally roomy and functional interior.
Concerned about range anxiety? The X-Trail e-Power can travel more than 700 kilometers on a single tank. Refueling takes just 5 minutes at the service station instead of waiting for 30 to 45 minutes at a DC fast charging point—assuming one is immediately available.
I’m aware some electric vehicle owners might disapprove of my stance on this, but if it serves as your main car and you frequently travel long distances with children, I prefer avoiding the inconvenience.
If you're thinking about purchasing a Nissan X-Trail, reach out to one of CarExpert’s reliable dealers through this link.
MORE: Everything Nissan X-Trail
