Source: www.tesla.com
Electric crossover with roomy interior and high driving range
Price From $52,630 – To $58,630
by SUViews Editor | Aug 5, 2023
Overview
The 2023 Tesla Model Y could have become a top contender in the current EV market, but the poor build quality and inconsistent driving range make it a less appealing option. Two of the most attractive features are the semi-autonomous driving system and the optional third row which come in handy for families with children.
In this 2023 Tesla Model Y review, we will evaluate this electric crossover SUV’s battery, range, performance, safety, pricing, and warranty, and help you decide if this is a good purchase or not.
Performance, Engine, and Comfort
Engine & Performance
The battery and performance are more or less good enough, but handling can be clumsy while driving on uneven roads. In unfavorable road conditions, driving range also drops down severely, which can lead to range anxiety.
EV Motor
The 80.5 kWh battery pack delivers a combined output of 384 hp and 375 lb-ft. of torque.
Transmission
The battery pairs with 1-speed direct-drive transmission.
Suspension
It comes with front control arms and rear multi link suspension.
Steering
Steering is convenient in this lineup. Its tilt and telescopic electric-powered steering wheel comes with controls for audio and cruise control located on it for quick access.
Safety & Reliability
It’s equipped with Tesla’s signature semi-autonomous driving system designed to make the driving experience smooth and hassle-free. There are also many other standard and optional driver-assist features to take care of your safety.
Brakes
Model Y comes with 14-inch vented disc for front brakes and 13.2-inch vented disc for rear brakes.
Airbags
Standard offerings include dual front side-mount airbags along with front and rear airbags.
Electronics
Some notable electronic features include adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, pre-collision safety system, and 4-wheel ABS, to mention a few.
Light
Dusk sensing headlamps and front fog lights are available as standard in this lineup.
Traction control
Traction control helps the vehicle maintain a good grip on the roads and prevents the wheels from losing traction on slippery roads. This feature is offered in the 2023 Tesla Model Y as part of the standard package.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy and range is good, but whether your vehicle is hitting these numbers depends largely on various circumstances like the type of road you’re driving on, weather conditions, and driving style.
Gas per mileage consumption
As per EPA, the base trim is good for 129 MPGe city/ 116 MPGe highway (123 combined), Long Range offers 127 MPGe city/ 117 MPGe highway (122 combined), and Performance trim offers 115 MPGe city/ 106 MPGe highway (111 combined).
EV range
The Base trim offers 279 miles, Long Range offers 330 miles and Performance trim offers 303 miles of EV range.
Interior
Tesla Model Y’s interior is tastefully designed, with an option to include a third row for families with kids. It’s comfortable and the infotainment system is easy to use, and the automaker used cheap materials in the interior and the build quality is not the best.
Seats
With a legroom of 41.8 inches, the front seat is comfortable enough for the passenger. You get leatherette upholstery, height adjustment, multi-level heating, and lumbar support for both the driver’s seat and the passenger’s seat. The rear seats have a 40.5-inch legroom with multi-level heating and reclining seats for added comfort. You could get a third row by paying $3000 extra, but we assume it would be able to accommodate only kids.
Design
The innovative interior of Tesla comes with a tinted glass roof which provides a luxurious feel. The cabin doesn’t have any buttons—everything has to be controlled through the infotainment unit. Tesla keeps the design simple and minimal while also taking care of practicality.
Infotainment
The infotainment display, located at the middle of the dashboard, is easy to access. It’s equipped with Hulu, Netflix, video games, and YouTube to take care of your in-car entertainment when you’re waiting at a charging point. While driving, these features become inaccessible to ensure you stay focused on the road.
Overall height and space
The vehicle is 187 inches long, 83.8 inches wide, 64 inches in height, and it has a wheelbase of 113.8 inches.
Trunk space
The base cargo area is 34.3 cubic feet. You can maximize it to 76.2 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats.
Price and Extras
The $50k+ starting price makes it a bit unaffordable for buyers with a low to medium budget, but if you’re willing to shell out a big amount to drive a full-electric vehicle, this lineup won’t disappoint you.
Market Price
There are 3 trim levels to choose from: Base, Long Range, and Performance. While all of them are competent enough, we would recommend the Long Range trim if you’re looking for a value-for-money purchase.
Trim Level | Base Price |
Base | $52,630 |
Long Range | $54,630 |
Performance | $58,630 |
AWD/FWD
All-wheel drive is the standard setup in this lineup.
Warranty
The vehicle is covered by a basic warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles, and EV battery warranty of 8 years or 120,000 miles.
Extras
The lineup has a maximum towing capacity of 1600 kgs.
Verdict
EVs have become popular in today’s market as a sustainable transport option, and Tesla is at the forefront of this revolution. But we had more expectations from this lineup—the 2023 Tesla Model Y lags behind in many areas, and competitors like Genesis GV60 or Cadillac Lyriq offer better value in a similar price range.