PROS
- Impressive acceleration
- Excellent battery range
- Innovative driver assists
- Consistent over-the-air software updates
CONS
- No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support
- Too many controls buried in the touch-screen interface
In the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) crossover sector, Tesla's Model Y reaches the sweet spot. It has the same base (and around 75% of the same parts) as the Model 3 sedan, but with a rear hatch and larger internal space. Tesla's large Supercharger network and over-the-air software upgrades enhance the Model Y, and the newest variants give best-in-class range. The Model Y's dashboard display is a little cluttered with options, and Tesla still doesn't support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, but despite these flaws, it's definitely the class leader and deserving of our Editors' Choice title.
Tesla isn't a traditionalist.
Tesla does not update its automobiles in the typical manner. Instead, it routinely makes lineup adjustments in the middle of the cycle.
We tried the Model Y Standard Range RWD, which is the company's entry-level model with the shortest range, for our evaluation. This model had a starting price of $42,000 and a range of 244 miles when it was released in January 2021. However, within a month, the price was reduced to $39,990, and the Model Y Standard Range RWD was withdrawn from the company's online configurator shortly after, purportedly due to mercurial CEO Elon Musk's dissatisfaction with its range. This variation is still available in China and is available "off menu" while supplies last.
Aside from the Standard Range model being dropped, the current 2022 Model Y lineup—which consists of the Long Range and Performance AWD trims—hasn't changed much from the 2021 range. The Long Range's estimated driving range has increased to 330 miles when fitted with the standard 19-inch wheels this year. Choosing the more appealing 20-inch models reduces the range to 318 miles per charge.
A 275-horsepower electric engine drives the rear wheels via a single-speed direct-drive gearbox in the Model Y Standard Range RWD we tested. 19-inch wheels with 255/45R19 all-season tires, automatic headlights, fog lamps, heated and power-folding mirrors with memory function, intermittent and variable-speed wipers, keyless entry, and a power liftgate are all standard exterior features.
Dual-zone automatic temperature control, a glass roof, heated 12-way power front seats, a heated tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, keyless ignition, and a rearview camera are among the standard interior amenities.
A 15-inch touch screen, a 15-speaker audio system with AM/FM HD and satellite radio, Bluetooth for hands-free conversations and music streaming, four USB ports, linked navigation, wireless charging for two devices, and in-cabin Wi-Fi are all standard tech features.
Blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking, steering assistance, and Tesla's Auto Pilot adaptive cruise control are all included in the Model Y.
The latest Tesla Model Y Long Range, with two motors and all-wheel drive, starts at $62,990 and has a range of up to 330 miles, which outperforms its competitors. It also comes with driver seat cooling, heated rear seats, and a synthetic leather inside, as well as the option of a $3000 third-row seat.
The current Tesla Variant 3 model, for example, starts at $46,990 and has a basic range of 267 miles. The entry-level RWD Ford Mustang Mach E has a range of 247 miles and costs $43,895. The ID.4 from Volkswagen costs roughly $40,760 and has a range of 250 miles. With a starting price of $34,000 and a range of 258 miles, the Hyundai Kona Electric outperforms them all.
The Model Y isn't far off the Tesla design tree in terms of appearance—its bulbous bodywork sets it apart from competitors, but it still looks a little old.
The inside is more sparse than other cars in its class and price range, but it's nonetheless spacious and pleasant. It has lots of room for people and luggage in the back cargo compartment and front trunk. The cabin has an open, breezy atmosphere with superb outward visibility thanks to large windows and a full-length glass roof.
Patented Technology
Tesla has eschewed most physical controls, which contributes to the vehicle's spartan interior. Instead, you use the 15-inch touch screen and the steering wheel's scroll-and-push controls to access and explore options.
The number of things you can operate via the 15-inch screen is first daunting, so this system demands a high learning curve. We were prepared for the Model Y's idiosyncrasies after evaluating the Model 3, which employs a virtually identical mechanism. While driving, we still find it annoying to browse and tap through various choices on the screen.
It's worth noting that Tesla is the only major carmaker that does not provide Android Auto or Apple CarPlay compatibility. Tesla's proprietary system, on the other hand, has many of the same functions, and wireless phone connection is a nice bonus.
Cloud-based navigation through Google Maps, voice help, a web browser, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are all available via onboard cellular connectivity. The aforementioned radio, Bluetooth streaming, and other applications like as Spotify, Tidal, and TuneIn are all good options for music. The car also receives regular over-the-air upgrades, which provide new features and improve operation, which is a fundamental differentiation between Tesla and other models.
Amazing Rates of Change
Tesla dominates the electric vehicle market for a variety of reasons, but for some purchasers, quick acceleration seals the sale. Despite the fact that the base Model Y Standard Range RWD we tested had a 0-to-60 speed of "just" 5.3 seconds (the same as the Model 3), it comfortably outpaced most other vehicles on the SoCal streets and freeways where we drove it.
The Model Y has three steering settings and two driving modes (Standard and Chill). The vehicle's enormous battery is located under the floor, giving it a low center of gravity and good stability in turns. While the suspension isn't as strong as other sports cars', it's smooth enough to keep the car in place in all but the most severe corners and bad weather.
As previously stated, the Model Y comes equipped with all of the necessary driver assistance features. It also has Tesla's well-known Autopilot feature. It accelerates, steers, and brakes on the highway using adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aid, just like similar systems. However, it performs better and more smoothly than rivals, and it visually depicts the situation surrounding the car on the dashboard screen in real time, unlike those other systems.
Our test vehicle lacked the contentious Full Self-Driving capability, which allows it to brake for traffic signals and stop signs, change lanes, turn, park, and pass slower vehicles automatically (all with the option to return controls to the driver via the Summon mode). Prepare to spend an extra $12,000 if you want these options on your vehicle.
A Crossover with a Torch
The Model Y, like the Model 3, is the market leader in its sector. It's simple to see why its sales have skyrocketed in the two years since its publication. The Long Range model of the 2022 Model Y gives much better mileage than competitors, while the Performance model combines a long range with seat-pinning acceleration. Furthermore, Tesla's regular and constant OTA software upgrades help to enhance the capability of its vehicles over time, making the Model Y's price a little more bearable. All of this adds up to the greatest electric crossover on the market, as well as our Editors' Choice winner.