Tesla Model 3 vs Toyota HiLux

What's the difference?

VS
Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model 3

$54,900 - $80,900

2026 price

Toyota HiLux
Toyota HiLux

$33,990 - $71,990

2026 price

Summary

2026 Tesla Model 3
2026 Toyota HiLux
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Not Applicable, 0.0L

Diesel Turbo 4, 2.8L
Fuel Type
Electric

Diesel
Fuel Efficiency
0.0L/100km (combined)

7.2L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • No spare tyre
  • FSD unconvincing
  • Average ownership proposition

  • Harsh unladen ride
  • Like it or leave it styling
  • Cramped rear seat
2026 Tesla Model 3 Summary

It’s been in Australia since 2019 and despite the arrival of a comprehensively upgraded version in late 2023, the Tesla Model 3’s once gargantuan popularity has been declining in recent years.

A seemingly never-ending influx of pure-electric alternatives, primarily from China, has eroded the mid-size sedan’s positioning as the go-to, best-value EV choice. 

But to its credit Tesla has again evolved the Model 3 proposition with the introduction of this Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive grade in October last year, at the time positioning it as “the longest-range EV in Australia”.

Since then, Tesla has adjusted the model grade name to Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive.

Some additional tweaks, made in response to customer feedback, also illustrates the EV pioneer’s determination to step up in the face of increasingly fierce competition.

So, does this latest Model 3 do enough to earn a spot on your electric vehicle shopping list? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.

@carsguide.com.au ‘Dog Mode’ in the Tesla Model 3 is a life-saver for four-legged friends in the summer heat.🐾 #tesla #model3 #ev #cartok #doggosdoingthings ♬ original sound - CarsGuide.com.au
View full pricing & specs
2026 Toyota HiLux Summary

Anecdotal evidence across automotive and social media suggests the new Toyota HiLux has for some Aussies fallen short of expectations, which were understandably high given a decade has passed since the last generation was launched.

Although it brings new front and rear styling, a redesigned interior and upgraded safety and digital tech, the underpinnings and drivetrains are largely carried over which has created perceptions of the 2026 Toyota HiLux being more of an update than a new generation.

Given the company’s recent claim that the ute market has peaked, is the latest HiLux the result of a typically pragmatic Toyota choosing not to commit substantial new-vehicle development funds to a segment in which it sees no future growth? We recently spent a week in one of the workhorse models to see if the underwhelming response to the latest HiLux range is justified in the hard-working tradie world.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Tesla Model 3 2026 Toyota HiLux

Change vehicle