Thinking of getting a Tesla Model Y?
Why buy the Tesla Model Y?
The Tesla Model Y is one of the best electric family SUVs, giving you a truly vast amount of passenger and boot space. It also has a battery range of around 300 miles, access to Tesla’s convenient charging network and it feels really good to drive.
Tesla Model Y range and updates
The Model Y has been sold since 2021, when it was launched as a brand-new model. Think of it as the SUV version of the Model 3 saloon – the two cars look similar, are just about the same length and share many components.
There are two models of the Y to choose from – the Long Range and the Performance. The Long Range has a battery range of up to 315 miles, while the Performance will give you up to 298 miles from a single charge. The Performance is significantly more powerful and therefore faster than the Long Range, although the latter also gives you very rapid acceleration. But they’re still easy to drive at low speed around town. Both models have four-wheel drive, which gives you a reassuring feeling of security in wet or icy conditions.
Tesla Model Y tech and features
The Model Y’s dashboard houses a big, 15-inch touchscreen display, which controls most of the car’s features, from the sat nav to the wipers. It also shows vehicle information like your speed. It can take some time to get used to, especially when you want to use features that are usually positioned in front of the driver, but it’s otherwise easy to navigate. The system also responds to simple voice commands and has features you won’t find from other manufacturers, including games that you can play while parked, and apps for your passengers to watch Netflix or YouTube.
Standard equipment includes climate control, heated seats both front and back, and a panoramic glass roof, as well as adaptive cruise control and keyless entry. There’s also a Tesla app you can use to access other features and vehicle information.
Tesla Model Y running costs and value
The Long Range model has a range of up to 315 miles from a fully charged battery, according to official figures. The Performance model will give you up to 298 miles. Tesla’s network of Supercharger charging stations makes topping up the batteries during journeys very easy – the sat nav will direct you to the nearest one when needed and a full recharge takes just over 30 minutes. Recharging from empty at home can take more than 12 hours because the batteries have a high capacity, but if you plug in the Model Y overnight that shouldn’t be too much of an issue.
Tesla Model Y vs rivals
Other electric SUVs to consider include the Audi Q4 E-Tron, Skoda Enyaq and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The Audi’s interior feels better made, the Skoda’s infotainment system is easier to use, and the Ford looks and feels sportier. But the Tesla is a hugely practical car that drives brilliantly, and the convenience of the Supercharger network makes it a great option.
