Starting at $44,630
7.5/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Marc Urbano
|Car and Driver
7.5/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Select a year
- Highs Roomy in the first and second rows, Performance model is impressively quick, the estimated driving range is longer than most rivals.
- Lows Not as fun to drive as the Model 3, subpar build quality, overly reliant on touchscreen controls.
- Verdict The Model Y continues to impress with its driving range and affordability, but there are several electric SUVs we'd rather buy.
Overview
Although it's based on the Model 3, the 2024 Tesla Model Y loses the sedan's satisfying road manners in the transition to its high-riding body style. Handling is less spry, leading to a clumsy feeling in corners and making it less fun to hustle. But its cabin is roomier, and its cargo area is more accommodating, so if you're shuttling kids or hauling bulky items regularly, the Model Y is the more practical choice. Driving range is near the top of the EV class, with a maximum estimate of 330 miles for the Long Range model. That's more than you get in rivals such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Volkswagen ID.4. At the center of the Model Y's dashboard is a large touchscreen. In it, you'll find the infotainment system as well as a readout for speed and navigation. The SUV's secondary controls—items such as power mirror adjustments and steering column angle—are all accessed via the screen as well, something we find rather annoying. The Tesla also suffers from below-average fit and finish, which is less common on similar products from companies such as Hyundai and Nissan.
Where This Vehicle Ranks
#11 in Best Electric SUVsWhat's New for 2024?
Tesla's yet to announce changes to the Model Y for its fifth year on the market. That said, Tesla is less predictable than other automakers and occasionally makes mid-year alterations to its products. A styling refresh for the Model Y—codenamed Project Juniper—is expected to debut soon but will likely go on sale as a 2025 model.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2024 Tesla Model Y starts at $44,630 and goes up to $54,130 depending on the trim and options.
Buying an electric car is all about driving range, and the Long Range and Performance models offer 310 and 285 miles of range, respectively. We'd go with the Long Range, which maximizes driving range while offering plenty of performance. There are few ways to customize your Model Y and only a handful exterior colors to choose from—most of which cost extra. Those seeking the optional third row of seats can add them for $2500.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The Model Y lineup starts with the Standard Range rear-wheel drive cost-leader trim that comes with rear-wheel drive. The Model Y's Long Range and Performance models are more compelling thanks to dual motors that provide a higher combined horsepower rating and all-wheel drive. Thanks to a generous Car and Driver reader, we were able to test an all-wheel-drive Long Range, which zipped to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, a mere 0.4 second behind our long-term Model 3 sedan. The Performance model delivered an even quicker 3.6-second blast to 60 mph in our testing. While the Model Y offers impressive acceleration, it doesn't deliver the same level of driving satisfaction as the Model 3. The SUV body creates a higher center of gravity, which dulls the sharp edge of the Model 3's handling, and the Y's ride is considerably rougher over road imperfections as well.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Rear-wheel drive Standard Range models with 19-inch wheels carry driving range estimates as high as 260 miles. The all-wheel-drive Long Range offers 310 miles of range; the Performance model's estimated range drops to 285 miles. But the latter comes with 20-inch wheels, a lowered suspension, a higher top speed (155 mph), quicker claimed acceleration, and a dedicated Track mode.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
The EPA estimates that the Long Range model is good for 127 MPGe in the city and 117 MPGe on the highway, while the Performance model's fuel economy estimates are 115 MPGe city and 106 MPGe highway. The Long Range model that we tested over our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test route recorded just 94 MPGe and an estimated highway driving range of 220 miles, while the Performance model delivered a result of 98 MPGe and 230 miles of driving range. For more information about the Model Y's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Model Y doesn't come with the larger Model X crossover's complicated Falcon Wing doors; its interior is largely free of buttons and relies mostly on a large infotainment display positioned at the center of an uncluttered dashboard. A heavily tinted, all-glass roof lends an airy ambiance to the cabin. The optional third row of seats adds a steep $2500 to the Model Y's price. This cramped two-passenger setup is of limited use as the two seats cannot comfortably fit adult-size passengers.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
Accessing almost every function of the Model Y—from the climate controls to the speedometer—requires users to interact with the large, slim infotainment display in the middle of the dashboard. The Model Y offers the same entertainment functions as the Model 3, including embedded Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube apps, as well as video games, all perfect for killing time while waiting for the battery to charge at the public charging station. Don't worry, Tesla locks drivers out of using these distractions while the vehicle is moving.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
Tesla's Autopilot driving-assist system comes standard on the Model Y. Despite its name, Autopilot is not exactly the self-driving feature the company claims. The same goes for the Model Y's optional Full Self-Driving Capability. All Model Ys still require the driver's attention and possible intervention. Still, these systems are useful for reducing fatigue on long highway drives. For more information about the Model Y's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Warranty coverage for the Model Y mirrors that of the Model 3, Model S, and Model X models, which means four years or 50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and eight years or 100,000 miles of coverage for the battery and electric motors.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 8 years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2020 Tesla Model Y Long Range
VEHICLE TYPE
front- and mid-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE AS TESTED
$57,190 (base price: $54,190)
MOTORS
1 permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 1 AC induction, 272 and 212 hp; combined output, 384 hp, 376 lb-ft; 80.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack
TRANSMISSION
1-speed direct-drive
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): control arm/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 14.0-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc
Tires: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5, 255/40R-20 101W M+S TO
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 187.0 in
Width: 75.6 in
Height: 63.9 in
Passenger volume: 106 ft3
Curb weight: 4386 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
Rollout, 1 ft: 0.3 sec
60 mph: 4.4 sec
130 mph: 17.2 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 4.6 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 1.7 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 2.0 sec
1/4 mile: 12.7 @ 114 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 136 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 161 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.88 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
75-mph highway driving: 94 MPGe
Highway range: 220 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 121/129/112 MPGe
-
-
2020 Tesla Model Y Performance
VEHICLE TYPE
front- and mid-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE AS TESTED
$72,190 (base price: $62,190)
POWERTRAIN
F: induction AC motor R: permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor
Combined Power (C/D est)
470 hp
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): control arms/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 14.0-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc
Tires: Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect, F: 255/35R-21 98W TO R: 275/35R-21 103W TO
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 187.0 in
Width: 75.6 in
Height: 63.9 in
Passenger volume: 106 ft3
Curb weight: 4439 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 3.6 sec
100 mph: 9.1 sec
1/4 mile: 12.1 sec @ 113 mph
130 mph: 17.8 sec
150 mph: 29.5 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 3.7 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 1.4 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 1.8 sec
Top speed (mfr's claim): 150 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 154 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 324 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.94 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
75-mph highway driving: 98 MPGe
Highway range: 230 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 111/116/106 MPGe
Range: 291 miles
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,175
EPA Est. Range
220–303 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is among the very best EVs in terms of pricing, charging speed, and usable driving range—with styling that's distractingly cool. Learn More
Hyundai Hyundai Ioniq 5 Model Years
- View 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $43,175 · 10/10
- View 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 DetailsStarting at $42,785 · 10/10
2024 Kia EV9
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$56,395
EPA Est. Range
230–304 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Kia EV9 SUV joins the Korean brand's EV lineup with three rows of seats, multiple powertrains, and an estimated 304 miles of maximum driving range. Learn More
2024 Kia EV6
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,975
EPA Est. Range
218–310 miles
C/D SAYS: Easy on the eyes, priced right, and fun to drive, the fully-electric 2024 Kia EV6 is among the best SUVs sold today. Learn More
Kia Kia EV6 Model Years
- View 2024 Kia EV6 DetailsStarting at $43,975 · 10/10
- View 2023 Kia EV6 DetailsStarting at $43,925 · 10/10
2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,390
EPA Est. Range
226–270 miles
C/D SAYS: The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a Mustang in name only, but it is a first-rate electric SUV, a solid Tesla competitor—and its high-performance version is quick. Learn More
Ford Ford Mustang Mach-E Model Years
- View 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E DetailsStarting at $45,390 · 9/10
- View 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E DetailsStarting at $44,795 · 9/10
2024 Volkswagen ID.4
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The all-electric 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 has an accessible starting price and up to 275 miles of driving range—plus the space rear passengers love in an SUV. Learn More
Volkswagen Volkswagen ID.4 Model Years
- View 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 DetailsStarting at $41,000 est · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 DetailsStarting at $40,290 · 8.5/10
2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$56,715
EPA Est. Range
279 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Chevy Blazer EV is an electric alternative to the gas-powered, mid-size SUV of the same name, with an all-new exterior and interior. Learn More
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$70,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is the high-performance variant of electric Ioniq 5 SUV, and it's capable of pumping out a tire-straining 641 horsepower. Learn More
2025 Volvo EX30
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$36,245
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Volvo's next-generation lineup of electric vehicles will be bookended on one side by the flagship EX90 SUV and on the other by this much smaller EX30 crossover. Learn More
2024 Nissan Ariya
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The newest kid on the block at Nissan, the electric 2024 Ariya, has striking looks, an estimated 304 miles of max driving range, and plenty of passenger space. Learn More
Nissan Nissan Ariya Model Years
- View 2024 Nissan Ariya DetailsStarting at $45,000 est · 8/10
- View 2023 Nissan Ariya DetailsStarting at $44,580 · 8/10
2024 Kia Niro EV
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$40,975
EPA Est. Range
253 miles
C/D SAYS: Small, reasonably affordable, and attractive, the Kia Niro EV is a good starting point for buyers who don't need the size, range, or cost of a large EV SUV. Learn More
Kia Kia Niro EV Model Years
- View 2024 Kia Niro EV DetailsStarting at $40,975 · 8/10
- View 2023 Kia Niro EV DetailsStarting at $40,875 · 8/10
2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$34,050
EPA Est. Range
200–261 miles
C/D SAYS: Hyundai stuffs the next-generation subcompact 2024 Kona Electric SUV with more pixels and styling that's so wild it's distracting. Learn More
Hyundai Hyundai Kona Electric Model Years
- View 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $34,050 · 8/10
- View 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric DetailsStarting at $34,885 · 8/10
2024 Toyota bZ4X
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,420
EPA Est. Range
222–252 miles
C/D SAYS: Although competent and pleasant to drive, the 2024 Toyota bZ4X's range and charging limit its appeal compared to other EVs. Learn More
Toyota Toyota bZ4X Model Years
- View 2024 Toyota bZ4X DetailsStarting at $44,420 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Toyota bZ4X DetailsStarting at $43,350 · 7.5/10
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Tesla
2026 Tesla Roadster
Starting at
$200,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Touted to make its return to the lineup in 2023, the new Tesla Roadster picks up where the old model left off. Learn More
2024 Tesla Cybertruck
Starting at
$81,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Tesla Cybertruck looks like it was dropped off by an alien race, but it has the capabilities to challenge all of the top-selling pickup trucks. Learn More
2024 Tesla Model 3
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$40,630
EPA Est. Range
272–341 miles
C/D SAYS: Say what you will about Tesla and its leader, Elon Musk, but the Model 3 EV sedan changed the rules of the EV game, and it gets important updates this year. Learn More
Tesla Tesla Model 3 Model Years
- View 2024 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $40,630 · 8/10
- View 2023 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $40,630 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $48,440 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $46,440 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $36,200 · 7.5/10
- View 2019 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at $36,200 · 8/10
- View 2018 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10
- View 2017 Tesla Model 3 DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10
2024 Tesla Model S
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$76,630
EPA Est. Range
359–405 miles
C/D SAYS: While the 2024 Tesla Model S has fallen behind newer rivals with more luxury features, it remains a compelling choice for its long driving range. Learn More
Tesla Tesla Model S Model Years
- View 2024 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $76,630 · 8/10
- View 2023 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $76,630 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $106,440 · 9/10
- View 2021 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $96,440 · 9/10
- View 2020 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $70,620 · 9/10
- View 2019 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at $76,200 · 9/10
- View 2018 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10
- View 2017 Tesla Model S DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
2024 Tesla Model X
6.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$81,630
EPA Est. Range
326–335 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Model X has viciously quick acceleration and impressive range but lacks the posh interior and build quality that should be standard for the price. Learn More
Tesla Tesla Model X Model Years
- View 2024 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $81,630 · 6.5/10
- View 2023 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $81,630 · 6.5/10
- View 2022 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $122,440 · 6.5/10
- View 2021 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $106,440 · 6.5/10
- View 2020 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $81,190 · 6.5/10
- View 2019 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at N/A · 7.5/10
- View 2018 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10
- View 2017 Tesla Model X DetailsStarting at $80,700 · 8/10