Let’s start off with some background: I normally drive a Kia EV6 and it got rear-ended recently. I’ve got a Tesla Model Y replacement until I get my car back. I’ve never been a big Tesla fan. After a couple of days, I have to say I’m liking it more than I thought I would. Let’s see what my first impressions are.
This all-electric crossover promises a blend of performance, spaciousness, and cutting-edge technology that caters to your modern lifestyle. In this review, you’ll discover how the Model Y stands out in both design and functionality, and whether it lives up to the hype as a worthy addition to the Tesla lineup.
Key Features
A multitude of features sets the Model Y apart in the electric SUV market. I have the Rear Wheel Drive version. Notable highlights include:
- Optional Rear or All-wheel drive for improved traction
- Over 400km of range (WLTP 455)
- Long Range and Performance models offer over 500km WLTP)
- Quick acceleration with 0-100 kph in approximately 6.5 seconds (Performance offers 3.5s)
- Spacious interior with versatile seating options
- Advanced autopilot capabilities for enhanced driving assistance
- High-tech infotainment system with over-the-air updates
- Impressive cargo space and storage solutions
Any driver looking for an electric vehicle with these attributes will find the Model Y an more than acceptable choice.
Unique Selling Points
Any electric SUV enthusiast would appreciate the Model Y’s blend of performance, safety, and versatility. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, this vehicle offers an unrivaled driving experience, making it not only practical for everyday use but also a pleasure on the road. It’s not going to suit everyone, but cerrtainly worth a look.
Specifications and Performance
Unique to the Model Y, the specifications and performance compare with many in the electric vehicle landscape. This SUV provides a robust powertrain equipped with single or dual motors.
The Model Y comes with a towing capacity of up to 1,600 kg, coupled with an adaptive air suspension that enhances ride comfort and control. With an intelligent battery management system, you can expect efficient energy use, allowing for longer trips between charges. Furthermore, premium features like integrated navigation and customizable driver profiles enhance your driving experience, making the Model Y a leading seller in its class.
Pros and Cons
If you’re considering the Tesla Model Y, it’s crucial to weigh its strengths and weaknesses. Below is a concise comparison to guide your decision-making process.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
| Impressive electric range | Higher initial cost |
| Spacious interior | Limited service centers |
| Advanced technology features | Build quality issues reported |
| Strong acceleration | Firm ride quality |
| Regular software updates | Less cargo space than some competitors |
| All-wheel drive options | No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| High safety ratings | Very limited visibility (screen definitely helps) |
Advantages of the Product
With its impressive electric range and spacious interior, the Tesla Model Y is a good choice for those looking for a versatile, eco-friendly vehicle. You can enjoy state-of-the-art technology features, strong performance, and the peace of mind that comes with high safety ratings, making it ideal for both daily commutes and family outings.
The onboard navigation is really good, and easy to use, although I haven’t quite worked out how to add my favourites yet. I like ABRP, and this isn’t available on the Tesla, so I’m yet to see how we go on a road trip. We have a holiday planned for the end of the month, so I’ll be able to report back on that. I’ll have more to say on cargo space as well, but it looks to be impressive.
There’s so much entertainment and information available, if you stop the car and sit there navigating through the various screens. Waiting for the kids to come out of dance classes is more entertaining, as I can easily watch something or play a game on the centre screen. I’m not sure which has more screen space, the Model Y or the EV6. The Model Y is one big, almost square space, as opposed to the much wider multi-screen setup in the Kia.
Simple things like turning on the lights, or wipers are best left to auto, which works pretty well. I haven’t yet tried to use these functions in manual mode while driving.
My 13 year old daughter is in love with the sound effects. She loves “fart mode” and making various passenger seats emit sounds (thankfully Tesla didn’t include smells as well). Making a quack, or a clown horn when locking the car is another of her favourite tricks.
I like the Tesla App, but it’s not as impressive as I’d been led to believe. It’s one thing I’d have liked to see on the Kia EV6, but wasn’t available when I bought mine. I do love being able to pre-condition the interior, so it’s just the right temperature when I get in.
Disadvantages and Limitations
Disadvantages of the Model Y mainly revolve around its higher price point and limited service availability. You may find that some users report build quality issues and a firmer ride than expected, which could affect overall comfort on longer journeys. I find the need to use the app or the centre screen for everything a bit annoying. Being able to push a button on a key fob to unlock the car or the charge port is something I miss.
There’s a noticeable lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, which might be a dealbreaker for tech-savvy users. I find this quite annoying, as I like to listen to audio books. My Android Auto enabled cars have always allowed my to bring my Audible app up on the screen. I can still listen to my books, but can’t use the additional features like skipping forward or back, or dropping bookmarks without illegally touching my phone.
The gear stick on the right stalk of the steering column can be a little disconcerting. It’s exactly where the indicator stalk is on a right hand drive car. Having driven European cars in the future, I’m getting used to this fairly quickly, but have had the car beeping at me when trying to change lanes more than a few times. Thankfully the car is smart enough not to try to go into reverse at 80km/h, as you’d expect in a vehicle with this standard of smarts.
I thought visibility in my EV6 was limited. The Model Y has somehow managed to surpass this. The cameras sensors are great, but without the screen it’s really hard to see anything behind. The mirrors are also tiny, which is unusual for a small SUV. This brings me to the center screen, which is offset from the steering wheel and out of my natural line of sight.
The Centre Screen
I really miss the dashboard, and having to look down to the left is really quiite distracting. Tesla people tell me I’ll get used to it, and tell me how great it is to not have all those buttons. To be honest, I’m not so sure. I like my buttons. I like being able to look at the dash and see exactly what my battery percentage is. With this car, I have so much information crammed into one little screen I can’t find anything. It’s not like I’m unfamiliar with screens. I was a navigation/warfare officer in the Navy and have a private pilot’s license, but this screen is just too crammed with information for my liking.
Without a heads up display, having to look into the centre of the vehicle for all my information is distracting. A traditional dashboard behind the steering wheel would endear me to this vehicle a lot more.
I miss having physical buttons and dials for some things. Like adjusting the radio, opening the charge door, or turn on things like wipers or lights. The pilot in me likes to be able to do things by feel, rather than having to scroll through touch screens.
User Experience
The user experience of the new Tesla Model Y is designed to be intuitive and seamless. From the moment you enter the vehicle, you mihgt appreciate the minimalistic interior layout, with a central touchscreen that controls almost every feature. On the other hand, like me, you might think they’ve gone too far. I miss the tactile functionality of physical buttons and knobs. The responsive infotainment system ensures access to navigation, music, and climate control, creating a pleasant driving environment. I might be able to get used to this, but there’s just so much on the screen I find it difficult to find most things. I’ve had to pull over a few times to find important functions. The spacious cabin and advanced safety features enhance overall comfort and confidence on the road.
Overall Usability and Satisfaction
Satisfaction with the Tesla Model Y runs high, with users frequently commenting on how quick and easy it is to adapt to the vehicle’s technology and features. This electric SUV offers a smooth driving experience combined with ample storage, making it perfect for both daily commutes and long journeys. Drivers often appreciate the extensive range on a single charge, further enhancing their overall enjoyment. I’m yet to be sold on some of these points. There’s about an 80km real life range shortage on the EV6, which hasn’t been an issue with daily commutes, but may be an issue on a road trip.
I’m struggling a bit with the big centre console crammed with too much information. I wish I was able to focus more on driving rather than the complexities of the vehicle. Tesla’s over-the-air updates continuously improve the user experience, ensuring that your car remains up-to-date with the latest software enhancements. Additionally, the flexibility of the seating and storage compartments means you can customize the space to fit your specific needs, whether it be family trips or grocery runs.
Summing Up
While I’m liking it better than I thought I would, there’s still a lot for me to be convinced on. I’ll be doing another write up after a month in the car, once I’ve had more of a chance to get to grips with it. Let’s see if I can get used to the lack of physical buttons, lack of line of sight dashboard and what I find to be an overly complicated centre console.