The “smartphone on wheels” cliches actually ring true here—in a good way—while a limited array of Model Y builds won’t leave shoppers with many choices.
The standard-feature set for the Model Y is impressive, and its responsive, intuitive, sharp-looking infotainment system is among the best in the business. That brings the Model Y up to a 7 in this category.
If your priority is sheer simplicity of interface, the Tesla Model Y is the best it gets. Beautiful, within easy reach, and with a flat, intuitive menu structure, it’s a great hub for just about everything the Model Y has to offer—which is a whole lot via the screen. Gauge cluster, warning lights, and some of the switchgear for repositioning the mirrors and steering wheel, or even repositioning the climate vents, has all been relocated to the screen and, at times employing steering-wheel toggles. But the screen, without fail, does the job, with a clear font and adjustments that all feel very iPad-like.
Standard features also include 12-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, four USB ports, and the glass roof. Some vehicles might also include heated wipers.
Add the seven-passenger interior option (for $3,000), and you get USB-C charging ports back there, a sliding second row with adjustable seatbacks, and a setup that allows both the second and third rows to fold flat (with releases in the trunk area) for cargo. You won’t miss out on much cargo space versus the five-passenger version.
At face value, Tesla’s 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty is competitive, plus it has 8-year/100,000-mile (or 150,000 mile) coverage for the battery and drive units. Just keep in mind that owners report widely varying levels of responsiveness to different issues.
Which Tesla Model Y should I buy?
The Long Range version is probably the sweet spot for most Model Y buyers. Its acceleration is plenty quick, and as Tesla owners are advised to charge to 80% the majority of the time, when not on highway trips, and cold weather can impact range further, it’s the best realistic pick for family use and year-round usability. Do get the Enhanced Autopilot if you tend to pile on the highway miles.
How much is a fully loaded Model Y?
If you start with the Model Y Performance, adding premium paint, a tow hitch, the black-and-white interior, Full Self Driving, and a mobile charging connector (charging equipment not included), it adds up to $68,880.
