The Tesla Model Y is one of the most popular electric vehicles (EVs) on the market, and in 2023, it became the bestselling car in the world. This EV has gained attention for its impressive range, practical interior, and access to Tesla’s extensive supercharger network. However, Tesla has now improved the Model Y even further, with a new version offering a longer range and better efficiency. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about the updated Tesla Model Y and why it sets a new benchmark for electric SUVs.
What’s New in the Updated Tesla Model Y?
The latest update to the Tesla Model Y is all about efficiency. This model features the same 75 kWh usable battery as the long-range all-wheel-drive (AWD) version but with better efficiency. Tesla has achieved this by removing the front motor, reducing the overall weight of the car and cutting down on energy consumption. The result is the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Model Y, which has an official range of 373 miles. That’s 41 miles more than the AWD version and 89 miles more than the standard-range RWD Model Y.
While the 373-mile range is impressive, it’s important to note that this is based on official figures. In real-world conditions, the actual range may vary. Still, this puts the Tesla Model Y on par with other efficient electric SUVs, such as the Renault Scenic.
Real-World Efficiency: Tesla Model Y Performance Test
To test the real-world range and efficiency, we took the Model Y on a road trip from Heathrow to Bicester Village, then back to Brent Cross in London. The results were impressive. After travelling 66 miles, the Tesla Model Y had an average efficiency of 4.5 miles per kilowatt hour (kWh). This translates to a real-world range of 338 miles—an excellent performance for an electric SUV.
Compared to its rivals, the Tesla Model Y RWD is more efficient than the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, and is on par with the Skoda Enyaq. However, it falls just short of the Hyundai Ioniq 6, which is currently one of the most efficient EVs available.
Driving Experience and Ride Quality
The Tesla Model Y has always been a great performer in terms of speed and handling. The AWD version can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds, while the updated RWD model takes just under 6 seconds. This is still fast enough for a family SUV, even if it doesn’t have the same punch as the AWD or Performance versions.
However, one area where the Model Y falls short is ride comfort. The suspension struggles to handle bumps and imperfections on the road, making the ride less smooth compared to other electric SUVs like the Renault Scenic or Skoda Enyaq. The steering is also quite heavy unless adjusted via the touchscreen, which can make the car feel less responsive on winding roads.
While it’s not the best choice for a fun, twisty drive, the Model Y shines in urban driving and motorway cruising. Tesla’s Autopilot system works exceptionally well, offering adaptive cruise control and lane steering, making long drives more comfortable and less tiring.
Interior and Tech
Inside, the Tesla Model Y sticks to its minimalist design, with very few physical buttons. Almost everything is controlled via the 15-inch touchscreen, which is bright, responsive, and offers sharp graphics. Over-the-air software updates from Tesla mean that the car’s interface and features can improve over time, which is a significant advantage over many rivals.
However, one downside is the lack of smartphone mirroring. The Model Y doesn’t support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which might be a dealbreaker for some buyers. Instead, Tesla offers built-in apps for services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
When it comes to quality, Tesla has made notable improvements over the years. The interior materials are a step above the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, though they still don’t quite match the premium feel of competitors like the Audi Q6 e-tron or Genesis GV60.
Practicality and Storage
One of the biggest strengths of the Tesla Model Y is its practicality. The spacious cabin offers plenty of legroom and headroom, making it comfortable even for tall passengers. The rear seats are wide enough to fit three adults or three child seats, and the flat rear floor ensures everyone has enough foot space.
The boot is massive, offering 854 litres of space with all seats in place. There’s also additional storage under the boot floor, and as an electric vehicle, the Model Y has a frunk (front trunk), providing even more storage space. Family-friendly features, such as the powered tailgate, make loading and unloading easier.
What’s Coming Next?
Tesla is expected to release an updated version of the Model Y, code-named Juniper, in 2024. This new model is rumoured to feature small exterior design changes, improved interior materials, and possibly a larger touchscreen. There’s also speculation that the 2024 Model Y could include rear-wheel steering, improving low-speed manoeuvrability.
While the 2024 version isn’t here yet, the current Model Y remains an excellent choice for an efficient, practical, and feature-packed electric SUV.
Is The Model Y a Good Car?
The 2024 Tesla Model Y sets a new standard for efficiency and range in the electric SUV market. With its impressive real-world range, practical design, and access to Tesla’s supercharger network, it’s easy to see why this EV has become the bestselling car worldwide. Although there are areas for improvement, such as ride comfort and the lack of smartphone mirroring, the overall package makes the Model Y a top contender in its class. As we look forward to the 2024 updates, it’s clear that Tesla is continuing to push the boundaries of what electric vehicles can achieve.
