Updated December 8, 2021
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The Tesla Model Y is an electric compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) by Tesla, Inc. Tesla unveiled it in March 2019,[2] started production at its Fremont plant in January 2020,[3] and started deliveries on March 13, 2020.[4]
It is the second vehicle based on the Model 3 sedan platform.[5] The Model Y shares an estimated 75% of its parts with the Tesla Model 3,[6] which includes a similar interior design and electric powertrain. Model Y offers optional third-row seats for a seven-passenger seating capacity.[7][8][9] The Model Y fills a smaller and less expensive segment than the full-sized Tesla Model X.[10]
There were four planned powertrain configurations for the Model Y: Standard Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range with Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and Performance (with Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive).[11][12] The Long Range AWD model and the Performance model are currently being delivered.[13] The Standard Range RWD configuration was initially canceled in July 2020, due to the range (230 miles EPA) being unacceptably low to Musk, but was orderable as of January 2021 (with 244 miles of EPA range).[14][15] By February 7, 2021, the Long Range RWD appears to have been cancelled.[16]
— Source Wikipedia
- Official Page – Tesla Model Y
- Price: Starts at $76,990 CAD
- Comparable to: Volkswagen ID.4, Tesla Model 3
REVIEWS AND IMPRESSIONS
OUR SCORE: 80
SCORES BY PUBLICATION:
Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5
USNews: 7.6 / 10
Edmunds: 8.2 / 10
J.D. Power: No Rating
Car and Driver: 7.5 / 10
Motortrend: 8.3 / 10
CNet: No Rating
What the critics have to say…
Tesla’s Model Y slots below the Model X as the brand’s compact SUV. Sharing its underpinnings with the Model 3 sedan, the Model Y distinguishes itself with a higher roofline. Inside is where you see most of the differences. The Model Y has more headroom and is available with a three-row option. The taller roof also gives you extra cargo space behind the rear seats, making the Model Y more practical.
Motortrend
HOW DOES IT DRIVE?
Steering and handling are also laudable despite the Model Y’s heavy weight. The steering feels light and is quick to respond to inputs, giving you a sense of control and connection through a corner. There’s minimal body roll too, especially for an SUV. In-town drivability is excellent. Seasoned EV drivers will appreciate the adjustable regenerative braking that allows you to drive nearly exclusively using just the right pedal.
Edmunds
IS IT RELIABLE AND HIGH QUALITY?
Is the Tesla Model Y Reliable?
The 2021 Tesla Model Y does not yet have a J.D. Power predicted reliability score.
Tesla Model Y Warranty
Tesla covers the Model Y with a four-year, 50,000-mile basic warranty and an eight-year, 120,000-mile warranty for the battery and drive unit.
HOW COMFORTABLE IS IT?
The Model Y’s cabin provides good comfort in some areas and disappoints in others. The seats are well padded and provide ample support and the seat heaters warm quickly. But the simulated leather upholstery doesn’t breathe particularly well and can feel stifling in hot weather. The climate control, like everything else, is touchscreen-operated. It can cool and heat the cabin well, but it has to work extra hard if the sun is out and beaming through the Y’s expansive glass roof. You can remotely precondition the cabin before you get in, which is convenient.
Edmunds
WHAT IS THE INTERIOR LIKE?
The Model Y doesn’t come with the larger Model X crossover’s complicated Falcon Wing doors; its interior is mostly carryover from the Model 3 sedan. Like that car, it is largely free of buttons and relies mostly on a large infotainment display centered on a simple dashboard. An all-glass roof lends an airy ambience to the cabin but is heavily tinted to avoid roasting occupants in Sun Belt states.
Car and Driver
WHAT IS THE TECHNOLOGY LIKE?
There are significant pros and cons when it comes to the Model Y’s technology features. The big center screen is easy to see and has crisp-looking graphics. The navigation system, which is Google-based, is also clear and easy to read. But the system can be slow to update in spotty service areas, leaving you temporarily mapless. The sound quality from the 14-speaker audio system is immersive.
Edmunds
WHAT IS THE CARGO SPACE LIKE?
The optional third row of seats adds a steep $3000 to the Model Y’s price—we can’t imagine they’ll be spacious enough for adults to ride in comfort.
Car and Driver
IS THIS VEHICLE A GOOD VALUE?
The appeal of the Model Y depends on what you value. If it’s speed and space for its size, the Model Y is a relative bargain compared to other luxury SUVs and its most obvious EV competitor, the Ford Mustang Mach-E. But if interior design and comfort features are priorities, the Model Y is slightly disappointing.
Edmunds
IS THE Tesla Model Y A GOOD SUV?
Yes, the Tesla Model Y is a good SUV. It accelerates quickly in all situations, and it handles well on winding roads. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable. The Model Y has excellent driving range for an EV, and its efficiency ratings are outstanding. The cabin has high-quality materials, and the first two rows of seats are comfortable and roomy. There’s plenty of technology and a large cargo hold as well.
USNews
SHOULD I BUY THE Tesla Model Y?
As detailed above, the Model Y has a lot going for it. It warrants a spot on your short list if you’re after a lively all-electric SUV with ample range. However, you may still want to see how it stacks up against the competition.
USNews
THE FINAL WORD
The phantom braking issue is a complete deal-breaker. Our car, which is running the latest production version of Autopilot, is unsafe whenever cruise control is enabled. A $70,000 car that can’t even do cruise control is inexcusable and so, for now at least, I must recommend against the Model Y. There is an increasingly great suite of all-electric options out there, cars like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID 4. And, if you’re willing to wait a little longer, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Nissan Ariya, Toyota BZ4X and Subaru Solterra will all join the fun. — CNet
