Electric cars?

[JohnDe]

 

[sptrawler]

Interesting article for EV owners who charge from home.

'Very worrying': Hidden insurance clause may not cover EV home chargers

If you've got an EV home charger installed, you'd better go check the fine print on your home insurance.

www.drive.com.au

 

[JohnDe]

Interesting article for EV owners who charge from home.

'Very worrying': Hidden insurance clause may not cover EV home chargers

If you've got an EV home charger installed, you'd better go check the fine print on your home insurance.

www.drive.com.au

one person said they had been told by the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) that they were only covered for using the three-pin ‘trickle’ charger at home and not the unit they’d just had installed.​

Coming up to 4 years of Tesla ownership and I still use the supplied trickle charger. I don't see the point of paying to purchase and install a fast charger at home, when the supplied trickle charger does the job.

“I was told unless it’s the BYD-supplied charger you’re not covered. I’m in a similar position, the electrician installed a 32amp point and purchased a 7kW charger. Nothing but BYD-supplied will be covered unless I go to the expense of getting my equipment certified by BYD,” they said.​

​

 

[Garpal Gumnut]

Thanks @JohnDe . I didn't have time this morning to watch the full video but am impressed. Perhaps should the barbarians exert more pressure on Elon there may be a price reduction and reason to seriously look at the latest Y.

@sptrawler I'd agree with John re just trickle charging. My nights are not as exciting as when I was younger so a slow charge will do me fine.

gg

 

[basilio]

BYD is not wasting time.
It's latest release Sealion 05 comes in at $26k Australian.
Very well featured. Now cheaper than most ICE cars in the range

BYD launches Sealion 05 EV, priced from just $A25,700​

• March 26, 2025
• 4 comments
• 2 minute read
• Riz Akhtar

BYD, the world’s fastest-growing car company, appears to be on an onslaught of launching new models, with the latest launch pitched as an affordable mid-sized electric SUV called the Sealion 05 EV.

According to CNC, the new model features BYD’s recently announced smart autonomous driving system, “God’s Eye”, and a large frunk with 110 litres of capacity, and the asking price is the equivalent of just $A25,700, with the top variant going up to $A30,100 in the Chinese market.

One key feature of the Sealion 05 is its smart driving driver assistance system, which will include the company’s recently announced God’s Eye assisted driving system.

This includes a combination of radars, ultrasonic sensors and cameras, which will allow it to perform autonomous supervised navigation on the highway network.

BYD launches Sealion 05 EV, priced from just $A25,700

BYD's onslaught of affordable EVs continue with the launch of Sealion 05 EV, featuring rear-wheel-drive and God's Eye tech.

thedriven.io

 

[divs4ever]

Interesting article for EV owners who charge from home.

'Very worrying': Hidden insurance clause may not cover EV home chargers

If you've got an EV home charger installed, you'd better go check the fine print on your home insurance.

www.drive.com.au

i am SHOCKED .. another tiny clause hidden in your insurance policies ( to avoid/delay payouts )

simply SHOCKED ( sarcasm )

i hold QBE ( 'free-carried' ) , IAG , SUN and TWR ( and have minimal insurance policies except where legally required )

just like gambling ( where i consider insurance policies fit that description ) i prefer to own a piece of the business rather than be a customer(victim ) ( i also hold TAH , TLC and have held Crown in the past )

 

[sptrawler]

BYD is not wasting time.
It's latest release Sealion 05 comes in at $26k Australian.
Very well featured. Now cheaper than most ICE cars in the range

BYD launches Sealion 05 EV, priced from just $A25,700​

• March 26, 2025
• 4 comments
• 2 minute read
• Riz Akhtar

View attachment 196513
BYD, the world’s fastest-growing car company, appears to be on an onslaught of launching new models, with the latest launch pitched as an affordable mid-sized electric SUV called the Sealion 05 EV.

According to CNC, the new model features BYD’s recently announced smart autonomous driving system, “God’s Eye”, and a large frunk with 110 litres of capacity, and the asking price is the equivalent of just $A25,700, with the top variant going up to $A30,100 in the Chinese market.

One key feature of the Sealion 05 is its smart driving driver assistance system, which will include the company’s recently announced God’s Eye assisted driving system.

This includes a combination of radars, ultrasonic sensors and cameras, which will allow it to perform autonomous supervised navigation on the highway network.

BYD launches Sealion 05 EV, priced from just $A25,700

BYD's onslaught of affordable EVs continue with the launch of Sealion 05 EV, featuring rear-wheel-drive and God's Eye tech.

thedriven.io

With those specs, it is going to hard for the Japs or Europeans to compete.
From your article Bas:

Powering the new compact SUV is a single motor setup, but it has two rear-wheel-drive options. The first is an entry 140 kW motor, and a more powerful 160 kW option is also available.

These are powered by BYD’s blade batteries, which come in two capacities. There is a 50.05 kWh pack that will feed the 140 kW motor, while the larger 60.93 kWh battery will power the 160 kW motor variant.

Both will deliver 430 km and 520 km of NEDC ranges, which is likely to be between 370 km and 460 km on the WLTP test cycle, respectively.

 

[qldfrog]

About BYD
Good news for all inc existing owners

BYD confirms simplified warranty in Australia, backdated to all cars sold since 2022

BYD has simplified its six-year warranty in Australia with a "bumper-to-bumper" definition.

www.drive.com.au

EV and ICE as i understand it

 

[JohnDe]

This is Tesla's price range competition -

the VW ID.5 GTX weighs about 200kg more than the 1992kg Model Y Juniper Long Range.​

​

Tesla proves the most energy efficient with a combined average of 20.0kWh/100km as opposed to 21.5kWh/100km in the Vee Dub. However, the duo returned much better results in the city with 14.3kWh/100km and 15.8kWh respectively.​

​

Both EV SUVs quell noise, vibration and harshness levels sufficiently, but the Model Y Juniper Long Range has a slight edge. According to Tesla, the addition of double-glazed acoustic glass reduces road noise by 20 per cent. It also helps to keep the Tesla’s cabin warmer and, crucially, cooler.​

​

The Tesla is the winner of this contest by virtue of its technology, pragmatism and monetary sense (sans expensive options you don’t need). This won’t come as a surprise to the devoted Tesla fanbase, but it equally shouldn’t be derided by the detractors.​

Tesla Model Y Juniper v Volkswagen ID.5 GTX 2025 Comparison​

Tesla and Volkswagen aim to electrify the mid-size SUV market, but which is best?

Models Tested
Tesla Model Y Juniper v Volkswagen ID.5 GTX

Review Location
Wildwood, Victoria
It seems Aussies aren’t the only ones buying into the tall-poppy syndrome. Seeing the global success of the Tesla Model Y, the gurus at Volkswagen HQ in Wolfsburg want in on the action (among others). Enter the ID.5 in GTX trim. It’s priced competitively, with the range and performance to compete head-on. Although, Tesla isn’t merely treading water, with the Juniper edition being more than just a midlife facelift. It packs extra range, tech and styling tweaks in an effort to overcome the chasing pack. So, which electrified, family-friendly mid-size SUV deserves your attention?

How much do the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX cost?
Right, let’s address some elephants in the room. Tesla is being torched (figuratively and literally) of late and the White House ‘yard sale’ didn’t help. On the other hand, Volkswagen’s EV onslaught is a continued healing process from Dieselgate. However, we’re going to take a ‘hate the artist, not the art’ approach here.
And breathe…
Preconceptions, politics and slowing sales aside, the Tesla Model Y continues as one of the most accomplished electric SUVs on the market. It’s offered in various forms from single-motor, rear-wheel drive (RWD) to dual-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD) with Long Range and Performance variants thrown in.


For Juniper, the price of entry is up by $3000 for the Model Y RWD, which starts at $58,900 plus on-road costs (ORCs). Interestingly, the $68,900 (plus ORCs) Long Range RWD we’re testing is $1000 cheaper than before. There are Launch Series grades for each, adding $4500 to the sticker, but allocation is almost exhausted.
While the German offering has been around for a while globally, it’s new to Australia. However, that doesn’t mean we’re getting an old car, as the mid-life update is the one lobbing Down Under. Therefore, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX is primed for the fight.
Volkswagen isn’t mucking about, either. Not only has it decided to launch with the GTI-esque, pseudo performance variant, it has done so at a competitive price. Yes, $72,990 (plus ORCs) is more expensive than the Tesla but, thankfully, VW hasn’t implemented European price premiums.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX

Tesla Model Y Juniper
For warranty, the Tesla gains a pass mark given its four-year/80,000-kilometre offering. Four years of roadside assist is included, with the addition of 800km in towing transportation should you require it. Servicing intervals? Apparently, the car will inform you when that’s required.
The ID.5 GTX comes with a more robust five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty with two years of roadside assistance. Like most EVs, its servicing intervals are every 24 months or 30,000km, whichever comes first. Both meet industry standards for EVs by offering an eight-year warranty for the battery packs.
A cheaper variant of the ID.5 is expected in the future. However, if you can’t wait for it to arrive, the ID.4 Pro is the SUV wagon version of the ID.5. It adopts a single motor/RWD format and will start at $59,990 (plus ORCs). Additionally, the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron, Cupra Tavascan and Skoda Enyaq all utilise the same battery-electric platform.


What equipment comes with the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but it’s safe to say that the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range has ushered in a more universally accepted aesthetic. It remains a minimalist design, but now with greater aerodynamic efficiency and contemporary touches like the rear LED light bar.
For the price point, it’s also packing an extensive features list. It rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels (with aero covers) and runs Cybertruck-looking LED headlight with a new LED taillight bar that glows and illuminates the rear Tesla badge.
The panoramic glass roof also adds a silver-coated layer that Tesla claims now reflects seven times more solar energy. Elsewhere there’s faux leather, eight-way electrically operated front seats with heating and ventilation, rear-seat heating, tri-zone climate control and an electronic tailgate.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


However, our test car is far from standard with three big-ticket items. The white interior is $1500 and the Quicksilver exterior hue is $2600 – not spare change, then. Full self driving, or FSD, is another $10,100. Gulp. All up, that’s an extra $14,200.
While the Model Y cuts a futuristic silhouette, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX is altogether more ‘normal’. Although, that’s not to say it’s boring – far from it. Running with an in-vogue five-door SUV coupe form factor, the ID.5 is the more fashion-forward version of VW’s electrified ID range.
It comes loaded with gear, too, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels, IQ.LIGHT Matrix LED headlights, ultra-cool-looking 3D LED rear taillights with dynamic indicators, keyless entry and start, powered tailgate and a panoramic glass roof.
Inside, the body-hugging front sports seats are cloaked in ‘ArtVelours’ microfleece and are eight-way power adjustable with lumbar control, memory and a massage function. The front pews and the steering wheel are heated, while the climate control covers three zones.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


How safe are the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX?
The 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range currently doesn’t have an ANCAP safety rating, but given the pre-facelifted version gained five stars (2022), we’d assume it will follow suit.
Conversely, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is based off the New Zealand market testing of the ID.4 in 2021.
The Model Y Juniper Long Range and ID.5 GTX are fitted with seven airbags, while both feature dual rear ISOFIX points and a trio of top-tether anchorages.
Autopilot headlines Tesla’s active safety tech, but full autonomous driving isn’t legal in Australia, so it’s a slightly watered-down version that still requires human input. It also features autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian, cyclist and junction detection, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, speed limit warning, blind-spot monitoring, all-round parking sensors and multiple-view cameras.


Volkswagen ID.5 GTX

Tesla Model Y Juniper
Volkswagen’s Travel Assist comprises autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, radar cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, driver attention monitor, all-round parking sensors and a 360-degree camera.
In practice, Tesla’s Autopilot prefers less driver input as it will cancel the moment you try to apply too much steering lock, but the system also requires you to keep your hands on the wheel. Despite this, the active safety tech is appropriately calibrated.
Volkswagen’s lane keeping assist is progressive and not overtly intrusive. And, like the Tesla, you can turn it off or tailor the level of intervention. Unlike the Model Y Juniper’s small red dot, the ID.5 GTX’s blind-spot monitoring is appreciably more prominent.

What technology features on the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX?
This is where the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range really packs a punch. And for the demographic the pioneering EV company appeals to, it will likely be the deciding factor in their purchase.
For the Juniper update, the Model Y gains a huge 15.4-inch central infotainment screen. It’s tasked with housing all the car’s controls and doubles as the instrument cluster.
A new addition is the 8.0-inch rear infotainment screen that allows dual Bluetooth headset connections in the back – handy if you’re a family of four. It also affords access to YouTube, Netflix and Twitch (which can also be shown on the front screen while stationary) to make car trips and charging stops pass by a little faster.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t offered. Essentially, it’s Tesla’s way or no way. Yet, due to the polished native operating suite, it isn’t too much of an issue. Well, that’s once you get used to how it works and you start to enjoy it, not fumble your way through it.
Bluetooth is standard, as are USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, voice activation, and DAB+ digital radio, while the Juniper Long Range gains a 15-speaker premium audio system. There’s a dog mode that transforms the cabin into a pet-friendly, climate-controlled oasis while you’re not in it. And you can even use the car as a controller for one of the in-built, Mario Kart-type racing games.

Tesla Model Y Juniper
By comparison, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX is a bit old school. While not as oversized as the Tesla screen, the 12.9-inch infotainment display remains sizeable and sits prominently within the dash.
It isn’t as swish or elegant, though, with the graphics ageing the operating system. Yet, for the most part, its functionality is easier to grasp given it’s more conventional – especially when mirroring your smartphone.
You won’t find buttons in here, either – well, not in the traditional sense. Haptic ‘slider’ controls sit below the central screen for things like temperature and volume control, with the latter tying into the interior ambient lighting (that features 30 colours).

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX




The ID.5 GTX is enabled with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while there’s also voice activation that completes various tasks within the cabin. A wireless charge pad is fitted as well as Bluetooth, DAB+ digital radio, USB-C ports and a 12-speaker, 480W Harmon Kardon sound system.
There is no native sat-nav, which could be an issue for some.
At just 5.3 inches, the ID.5 GTX’s instrument cluster is diminutive, but it does house important information like your speed, battery percentage, range and some safety systems. And the VW can’t compete with the Tesla’s rear screen – it’s merely climate controls in the back of the ID.5 GTX.
Both feature over-the-air updates and dedicated apps for remote access. The Tesla app goes a little further than Volkswagen’s GoConnect system, but at a minimum the pair have the ability to remotely monitor live technical status, state of charge and vehicle location.

What powers the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX?
Being family-friendly mid-size SUVs, performance should take a back seat. Yet, both have enough power to make you really stand up and take notice. They’re almost faster than they need to be.
Given there’s a ‘dual motor’ badge on the tailgate, it’s no surprise the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range indeed has two electric motors. Although, Tesla is mystifyingly hushed regarding specific outputs, but it is believed to now employ a combined 331kW and 559Nm.
It’s faster to 100km/h by 0.2 seconds, now crossing the marker in just 4.8sec. If you opt to pay for the Acceleration Boost software, the figure drops further to 4.3sec. Although, it isn’t required as the Model Y Juniper Long Range is electrifyingly rapid.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


From a standstill the EV-centric 255/45 R19 Hankook tyres offer formidable purchase. That, combined with the faux all-wheel drive created by the dual e-motors, means forward progress is alarmingly fuss free. You certainly get pushed back into the plush driver’s seat.
Considering we’re receiving the mid-life update, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX runs with an uprated combined out of 250kW (+30kW) and 679Nm from its twin e-motors. That’s less power, but noticeably more torque than the Model Y Juniper.
As a result, the VW’s 0-100km/h time is slower on paper at 5.4sec, yet it feels every bit as spritely off the line as the Tesla. Once up to speed, it does begin to fall behind, which isn’t surprising given the ID.5 GTX weighs about 200kg more than the 1992kg Model Y Juniper Long Range.
You aren’t going to feel shortchanged in terms of merging with traffic or highway overtakes. The ID.5 GTX also grips off the mark with 255/45 R20 Pirelli tyres (the front axle runs narrower 235/50 R20s). Both EV SUVs send power to all four wheels via a single-speed reduction gear.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


How far can the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX go on a charge?
This is crucial for family buyers looking to transition to a full BEV. We drove both on the same road loop, which included a mixture of city, urban, highway and dynamic situations.
According to the company, the efficiency of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range has improved by 10 per cent to 15.8kWh/100km thanks to aerodynamic tweaks, including the new thermoplastic boot spoiler and revised wheel covers. Therefore, overall range has increased to a WLTP-rated 551km.
Again, Tesla isn’t clear on the specifics, but the Model Y Juniper uses a circa-80kWh lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt battery pack. It’s also capable of rapid charging (using a Tesla Supercharger or something similar) at 250kW, resulting in a claimed 283km of range from just 15 minutes of charging.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX also uses a lithium-ion battery pack with NMC chemistry, but it’s rated at 84kWh (79kWh useable). Yet, it equates to a slightly shorter overall distance of 522km (WLTP). The rate of replenishment is lower at 175kW. So, while you’ll be waiting slightly longer for a full rapid charge, both should take about eight hours from an 11kW AC charger.

It’s worth noting that the VW comes with Mode 2 and 3 cables included. And the first 500 buyers of either an ID.5 or ID.4 will receive an AmpCharge Bolt 7kW home charger worth $1899.
The offer includes installation by a certified electrician and cuts at-home-charging times to 11 hours. On top of the charger, VW offers cheaper charging at Ampol stations, while also allowing owners to zap their IDs at more than 90 VW dealers countrywide.
How did they fare in the real world? Overall, the Tesla proves the most energy efficient with a combined average of 20.0kWh/100km as opposed to 21.5kWh/100km in the Vee Dub. However, the duo returned much better results in the city with 14.3kWh/100km and 15.8kWh respectively.
At their worst, when driving spiritedly through twisty sections of road, the Tesla and the VW saw similar peaks. However, the ID.5 GTX performed better with a spike of 24.1kWh/100km compared to 24.3kWh/100km in the Model Y Juniper Long Range.


What are the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX like to drive?
Depending on what you value in dynamic traits, both the Tesla and Volkswagen provide different driving experiences.
First up, the changes made to the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Long Range need to be commended. The ride quality is now more compliant thanks to the frequency selective dampers, resulting in it being a lot more liveable as a daily proposition when traversing harsh, pockmarked city streets.
There is an immediacy to all the vital controls which makes nipping in and out of situations within the CBD that bit easier. The steering is ultra quick with minute inputs resulting in significant changes of direction, something that’s exacerbated by the small steering wheel. Acceleration is instant and the brake pedal is seemingly always called to attention.
However, what makes the Model Y Juniper Long Range great in urban areas becomes a negative out on the open road. The hyper-sensitive steering is hard to gel with, returning inconsistent feedback when lock is applied. There are three modes to choose from, but all are unnaturally heavy, with the Light mode being the default. Also, the diminutive tiller itself makes maintaining a traditional nine-and-three hand position difficult.
The brake pedal is wooden, with a binary mentality that’s worsened by the eager regenerative braking. And the accelerator is hyper responsive, too. Essentially, it feels like you’re driving a videogame.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


Interestingly, for an EV SUV weighing under two tonnes, it doesn’t translate to a lithe persona. Despite the Tesla-pioneered skateboard platform that places most of the weight low in the chassis, the Model Y Juniper Long Range is surprisingly top-heavy. It leans while cornering and the chassis responds lethargically, juxtaposing the quick inputs from the steering, throttle and brake.
Out on the open road the Tesla’s newfound compliance aids comfort. Combined with sufficient range, there’s now a long-legged appeal here. Yet, sharp, consecutive bumps can leave the Model Y Juniper skipping over the top and unsettling the ride. However, grip levels are high and, overall, it’s still a big step forward.
The difference is stark when getting behind the wheel of the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX. From the get-go, the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform feels more car-like. You can sit extremely low and the steering wheel is appropriately sized. Those who value tradition and not something radical will feel more at home in the Volkswagen.
That sentiment translates to the road, too. It goes about its business in a more progressive and sophisticated fashion, especially in terms of the steering. It offers both Comfort and Sport modes, the former being the ideal setting, and yields a much more expected feel while remaining sharp.
There’s also regenerative braking – with a dedicated ‘B’ mode – but its calibration is superior to the Tesla and offers a more orthodox brake-pedal feel that’s easier to modulate. Yet, surprisingly given its halo GTX status, the VW runs rear drum brakes. Both the braking and steering responses generate smoother driving manners, both in the city and out on a country road.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


Despite having the e-motor sitting high in a traditional ICE location and being significantly heavier, the ID.5 feels as though it has a lower centre of gravity than the Model Y Juniper and is far more engaging to drive. It resists the urge to roll, rotates more keenly and displays equally high levels of purchase despite the narrower front tyres.
Even the electronic stability control has a sport mode, allowing for more movement and fun behind the wheel. It seems the sporty GTX badging isn’t merely for show, with the ‘all-wheel drive’ feeling far more rear-biased than the Model Y. Okay, it isn’t an EV Golf R, but it is somewhat entertaining.
If you’re a fan of choice, then you’ll love the adaptive dampers. There are 15 – yes, 15 – different levels of adjustment ranging from soft in Comfort mode, to rather firm in the sportiest setting. Luckily, you can tailor your own experience with Individual mode.
The ideal Goldilocks setting is about halfway between the two extremes. Soften the dampers off too much and it induces a bit of float and less body control yet sharpen them too much and the ride quality on the 20-inch alloys becomes harsh – especially on poor surfaces.
While the Tesla Model Y no doubt improves with the Juniper makeover, it’s the Volkswagen that is the better steer and, if set up correctly, is just as comfortable. While you might not seek out a twisty road, if you find yourself on one in the ID.5 GTX, you won’t be disappointed.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


What are the Tesla Model Y Juniper and Volkswagen ID.5 GTX like inside?
There’s a running theme here – unconventional versus conventional. No prizes for guessing which is which.
The 2025 Model Y Juniper Long Range takes everything you know about the brand and its pursuit of minimalism and takes it up a notch. If you aren’t accustomed to Teslas, take some time on a test drive to get to know it as becoming familiar with how the Model Y operates isn’t the work of a minute. At least there’s now a traditional indicator stalk – gone are the steering-wheel-mounted switches.
How far Tesla has come in terms of quality also can’t be overlooked. The materials, as well as the fit and finish, are a vast improvement on what’s come before it. There are even carpeted door pockets. If you’re a fan of Scandi-chic, then the Model Y Juniper Long Range’s cabin aesthetic will appeal – especially in our test car’s white hue.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


It seems odd to brand the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX as the conventional one, yet it doesn’t shout EV quirkiness. And it’s for the better. If the Tesla is light and airy, the ID.5 GTX’s dark tones generate a moodier ambience. Just about everything is where you expect it to be and, apart from some scratchy plastics below the belt line, it’s understated luxury to a tee.
The new Volkswagen Group column-mounted gear lever takes a bit of retraining as some might find the arrangement of forward and reverse antiquated. However, it works well, as does the touchpad for the headlight controls.
Both EV SUVs quell noise, vibration and harshness levels sufficiently, but the Model Y Juniper Long Range has a slight edge. According to Tesla, the addition of double-glazed acoustic glass reduces road noise by 20 per cent. It also helps to keep the Tesla’s cabin warmer and, crucially, cooler. Something it requires as the large panoramic glass roof has no blind. Volkswagen does offer a blind for its roof, which is appreciated given the hot summers Australia often endures.
While the ID.5 GTX’s steering-column-mounted instrument cluster is small, it can essentially be viewed as an alternative head-up display. It’s something the Model Y Juniper sorely needs as you must turn your head to view the central screen for everything – and we mean everything.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


Having no driving data within your line of sight is hugely distracting. The virtual gear lever within the central screen transforms a usually mundane operation into a bit of a faff. As is the climate control, which is a minefield to operate when on the move.
The blind-spot camera view (activated with the indicator) is almost redundant given the footage is shown on the screen. Speaking of vision, the view out the back of the Model Y Juniper is significantly hindered by the new tailgate design and thick pillars. The ID.5 GTX isn’t quite as compromised – and there’s a cool boot-mounted spoiler that creates a Honda CR-X-style split window.
Cabin and boot space are more accommodating in the Tesla. Legroom is palatial, while toe room is better given the higher driving position. Headroom is aided by the wider glass roof and there are cool LED reading lights and coat hooks – but no grab handles.
Amenities are well catered for outside of that impressive rear-mounted screen, which also houses the back-seat climate controls. There are air vents, map pockets, USB-C ports and a flip-down centre arm rest with cup holders.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX


Another Model Y Juniper party trick is the addition of electronically operated rear seats. Not only do they split fold and stow via a button in the boot, but they can be raised back into place or reclined by the powered mechanism, too.
While space is a little tighter in the shorter VW, it’s still more than comfortable for rear-seat passengers. Legroom is generous and headroom is decent, although the narrower glass roof eats into it a bit and toe room isn’t as generous given the low-slung front-seat position. If you really need more headroom, VW does sell the ID.4.
The back pews offer a more bolstered, form-fitting experience and they can split-fold and recline like the Tesla – you just have to do it manually and there aren’t any boot-mounted levers, either. Amenities are covered off with rear air vents, map and phone pockets, door bins, centre arm rest with cup holders, a ski chute and USB-C ports.

Tesla Model Y Juniper


Cargo capacity is important and the Tesla has a big advantage over the Volkswagen, coming in at 854 litres and 549L respectively (expanding to 2138L and 1561L). Neither has a spare wheel, which is a bit disappointing, while the Tesla gains a unique magnetised rear parcel shelf. The VW also uses a cargo blind and gains more LED lighting, a 12V socket, two bag hooks, four tie-down points and a cargo net – all items the Tesla lacks.
The Tesla hits back with a useable 117L ‘frunk’. Unlike the ID.5 GTX, the Model Y Juniper genuinely exploits the EV platform in this way. It’s fully sealed to keep items cool or warm and there’s also a drainage hole – did someone say mobile Esky? Accessories are coming for it, too.

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX

Tesla Model Y Juniper
Should I buy a Tesla Model Y Juniper or Volkswagen ID.5 GTX?
For two mid-size SUVs with relatively common goals, they employ divergent strategies that manifest in unique personalities. This battle isn’t purely skin deep, so deciding a winner isn’t abundantly clear.
Yet, the crown doesn’t go to the 2025 Volkswagen ID.5 GTX. Although we could easily see why you might choose this route. If how a car drives and makes you feel is important to you, then the traditional German marque offers the better experience. It’s more approachable while still being forward thinking. Ultimately, the VW just doesn’t have as many boxes ticked that make family EV life easier.
If the ID.5 is a conventional BEV, then the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper still feels outlandish. However, it’s no longer a gimmick. Nor is it an inanimate object without a soul.
The Tesla is the winner of this contest by virtue of its technology, pragmatism and monetary sense (sans expensive options you don’t need). This won’t come as a surprise to the devoted Tesla fanbase, but it equally shouldn’t be derided by the detractors.
The Model Y is maturing into a well-rounded SUV with palpable advances in quality since its inception. And now, with the heavily revised Juniper spec, the poppy has grown a little bit taller.

Tesla Model Y Juniper