Pros
- Long range
- Fantastic acceleration, especially in the Performance model
- Convenient Supercharger charging station network for longer trips
- Large seating capacity and cargo space
Cons
- Touchscreen-focused user interface can be distracting to the driver
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration
- Cheaper base model is not offered
What's new
- Only minor updates so far
- Major changes may already take place in this model year
- Part of the first generation Model Y to be launched in 2022
Tesla has figured out how to create a big social media resonance around cars that few people buy in large volumes. Examples include the insanely fast version of the Model S - certainly a niche car - or the cyber truck, where delays pile up faster than the NASA telescope project. But beneath the noise are some very attractive Tesla models, and the 2022 Model Y is one of them.
Model Y will debut in 2020 as a pioneer in the all-electric small SUV class. It's similar to the small Tesla Model 3 sedan, but has a roomier cabin for people and cargo. It even has the option of a third-row seat, albeit a small one. When it comes to a good combination of space, range and performance for an EV, the Y is a good example.
Tesla will make small changes to the Model Y by 2022, ranging from a new, lighter 12-volt lithium-ion battery (instead of the traditional lead-acid battery) to laminated rear windows to better insulate the cabin from noise. Tesla may notably change the design of the Y battery pack to a structurally integrated design known as the 4680. It's not yet known how the new battery pack will affect the Y's capabilities and performance, but we'll update this section when we learn more.
In the meantime, the Model Y is up against new competition. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID.4 were all recently unveiled, and each of them has attractive qualities that might appeal to you. Check out our expert team's full expert rankings below to help you decide which EV is best for you.
Tesla will make small changes to the Model Y by 2022, ranging from a new, lighter 12-volt lithium-ion battery (instead of the traditional lead-acid battery) to laminated rear windows to better insulate the cabin from noise. Tesla may notably change the design of the Y battery pack to a structurally integrated design known as the 4680. It's not yet known how the new battery pack will affect the Y's capabilities and performance, but we'll update this section when we learn more.
In the meantime, the Model Y is up against new competition. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID.4 were all recently unveiled, and each of them has attractive qualities that might appeal to you. Check out our expert team's full expert rankings below to help you decide which EV is best for you.
PRICING AND CHOICE
The Y model has basically two prices: $65 990 for the Long Range model and $69 990 for the Performance model. Interestingly, there are few options. Unlike rivals that offer choices for seats and interior trim, wheels, paint, audio system, and even interior lighting, the Model Y offers only body color, seat, and wheel choices. Everything else is standard. While it offers impressive technology on its big screen, such as Spotify and YouTube, it clearly lags behind the rest of the industry when it comes to smartphone integration without Apple or Android options.
The Y model has basically two prices: $65 990 for the Long Range model and $69 990 for the Performance model. Interestingly, there are few options. Unlike rivals that offer choices for seats and interior trim, wheels, paint, audio system, and even interior lighting, the Model Y offers only body color, seat, and wheel choices. Everything else is standard. While it offers impressive technology on its big screen, such as Spotify and YouTube, it clearly lags behind the rest of the industry when it comes to smartphone integration without Apple or Android options.
OVERVIEW
When it comes to SUVs that offer a pleasing combination of spaciousness, productivity, technology, performance and speed, the Y is unrivaled. Of the two versions, we prefer the Long Range (LR) version. It may lack the ballistic acceleration of Performance, but it's still quick enough. But of all the electric vehicles on the market today, we rate the Model Y as one of the best, even with a starting price of $65,990.
That said, we can't ignore the car's quirks, such as an overly harsh ride, tricky touchscreen operation, and lack of Apple or Android access, which we think could be deal-breakers for some potential EV buyers. Our best advice is to give it a try and see how it fits your lifestyle.
When it comes to SUVs that offer a pleasing combination of spaciousness, productivity, technology, performance and speed, the Y is unrivaled. Of the two versions, we prefer the Long Range (LR) version. It may lack the ballistic acceleration of Performance, but it's still quick enough. But of all the electric vehicles on the market today, we rate the Model Y as one of the best, even with a starting price of $65,990.
That said, we can't ignore the car's quirks, such as an overly harsh ride, tricky touchscreen operation, and lack of Apple or Android access, which we think could be deal-breakers for some potential EV buyers. Our best advice is to give it a try and see how it fits your lifestyle.