1. Overview

Numerous new electric SUVs have hit the market recently, but standing out among them is the Tesla Model Y. The vehicle is a fully electric, mid-size SUV and it takes its place as the fourth offering in Tesla’s lineup. Although this compact luxury SUV shares design elements and features with Tesla’s smaller sedan, it’s arguably the most important vehicle given its popular body style. Introduced in 2020, the Model Y offers a range of powertrain configurations and the option for either five or seven seats.  It’s one of the most popular electric cars on the road thanks to its excellent electric range,  advanced in-car technology, and notably quick acceleration, especially in the Performance trim. At the center of the Model Y’s dashboard is a large sizable  touchscreen, housing the infotainment system, speed readout, and navigation display. However, some may find it inconvenient that even secondary controls, such as power mirror adjustments and steering column angle, are exclusively accessible through the screen. So if you’re shuttling kids or hauling bulky items regularly, the Model Y is the more practical choice for you.

2. Tesla Model Y models

The 2023 Tesla Model Y is like the rockstar of electric midsize SUVs, offering room for five passengers with an extra option for a third row if you’re ready to turn your ride into a party for seven. Tesla keeps it interesting with three options: there’s the standard Model Y rear-wheel drive version, the all-wheel drive Model Y Long Range version for those who love a bit more distance, and the all-wheel drive Model Y Performance version for those who want to feel the thrill of acceleration. It’s like having options to match your mood.

3. Electric Motor, Power, and Performance

As we mentioned in the previous paragraph Tesla Model Y comes in three drivetrain options: the standard rear-wheel drive, the Long range dual motor all-wheel drive and the Model Y Performance dual motor all-wheel drive. As for the standard rear-wheel drive version, it can reach a top speed of 135 mph and go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. On the other side the Long range all-wheel drive is also able to top out at 135 mph as a top speed, but the 0 to 60 mph sprint is a bit speedier at 4.8 seconds. Now, with the Model Y Performance all-wheel drive version, the performance lives up to its name as it can hit top speed of 155 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.

To Recap :

Model Y:

• Drivetrain: RWD
• Top Speed: 135 mph
• Acceleration 0-60: 6.6 seconds

Model Y Long range:

• Drivetrain: Dual motor – AWD
• Top Speed: 135 mph
• Acceleration 0-60: 4.8 seconds

Model Y Performance:

• Drivetrain: Dual motor – AWD
• Top Speed: 155 mph
• Acceleration 0-60: 3.5 seconds

4. Range, Charging, and Battery

Once again we need to specify for each version of Tesla Model Y the Range, charging and Battery capacity, so let’s dive in. Unsurprisingly, the Long range is the version with the highest Range as it can travel on single battery charge up to 330 miles with its Battery size of 80 kWh. The Rear-wheel drive Standard Range version carries driving range estimates as high as 260 miles with its Battery size of 68 kWh. The Model Y Performance all-wheel drive version has an estimated range of 303 miles with its Battery size of 80 kWh. One big advantage to the Model Y is access to Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network. As the Tesla Supercharger can add 162 miles of range to the car in 15 minutes. Instead of using a home charger, which can add only 44 miles each hour.

To Recap :

Model Y:

• Range: 260 miles
• Battery size: 68 kWh
• Charging time: Up to 162 miles of range in a Tesla Supercharger in just 15 min

Model Y Long range:

• Range: 330 miles
• Battery size: 80 kWh
• Charging time: Up to 162 miles of range in a Tesla Supercharger in just 15 min

Model Y Performance:

• Range: 303 miles
• Battery size: 80 kWh
• Charging time: Up to 162 miles of range in a Tesla Supercharger in just 15 min

5. Design, Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

In the Model Y, Tesla keeps things sleek with a minimal interior, ditching the intricate Falcon Wing doors of its larger counterpart, the Model X. The cabin boasts a spacious feel, with a focus on a central 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and limited buttons. An optional third row is available for the Long range version but comes at a price, proving tight for adults. Getting in and out is easy thanks to wide-opening doors and a thoughtful design. However, the touchscreen, while it looks cool and modern, is the single gateway to control nearly everything. And usually there’s a learning curve to using the controls, and the system is generally distracting to use while driving. Tesla’s decision not to integrate Apple CarPlay/Android Auto might raise eyebrows, but entertainment options like Netflix and Hulu are on board. Heated seats, comfortable front seating, and a flexible cargo space, complete the Model Y’s package, offering a practical car with a touch of a modern innovative design.

6. Other features:

Tesla Model Y comes with several other features, some with extra costs and some comes out of the box. Here are some of this features that can make you better informed:

Over-the-air updates: Things like range, performance, and navigation information can all get better over time with frequent wireless software updates, bringing you new features, and more entertainment.

Sentry Mode: With continuous 360° monitoring, a parked Tesla is still aware of its surroundings and sending alerts to its owner’s smartphone if necessary, helping to detect and protect against potential threats.

Basic Autopilot: With the basic Autopilot the car can steer, accelerate and brake automatically for other vehicles and pedestrians within its lane, and can assist the driver in emergency braking, collision warning and blind-spot monitoring, not to forget Autopark and smart summon.

7. Pros and Cons

The Tesla Model Y is definitely one of the most interesting midsize SUV models available on the market right now. It’s the most popular electric car in terms of sales volume in the US. And like any technology there are certain benefits and drawbacks of using Tesla Model Y and here are the top few to keep in mind :

Pros:

• A fair amount of range of 330 miles
• Remarkable acceleration, especially from the Model Y Performance model. 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds. Instantaneous response, it’s really incredible
• Cargo capacity is expansive
• Convenient Supercharger network in the case of long-distance driving
• Great software and tech

Cons:

• Getting used to the car can take a day or two
• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

8. How much will it cost?

Currently, the Standard Tesla Model Y Rear-wheel drive kicks off at $43,990, while the Long Range all-wheel drive comes at a starting price of $48,990. For the Model Y Performance, if your eyes are on this one it starts at $52,490. And of course additional cost may be added depending on additional features you may include into your car.

To Recap :

• Model Y Starts at $43,990
• Model Y Long Range Start at $48,990
• Model Y Performance Start at $52,490

9. Conclusion

To sum it up, the Tesla Model Y is an impressive electric midsize SUV that offers a unique driving experience. With its shiny design, roomy interior, quick acceleration, impressive range, and cutting-edge features make it a top choice for anyone looking for a luxury electric car. If diving into the Model Y intrigues you, renting one is an excellent approach to do so. You’ll have the opportunity to test it out before making a purchase. But overall the Model Y is definitely worth considering.