Engine, Transmission, and Performance 2022 in Tesla model Y
The Model Y lineup no longer includes a Standard Range cost-leader trim. No loss there; the Model Y’s Long Range and Performance models are more compelling than a Standard Range trim anyway. Thanks to a generous Car and Driver reader, we were able to test an all-wheel-drive Long Range, which zipped from zero-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
The all-wheel-drive Long Range offers 330 miles of range; the Performance model’s estimated range drops to 303 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 MPG
The EPA estimates that the Long Range model is good for 131 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 mostly carryover from the Model 3 sedan. Like that car, it is largely free of buttons and relies mostly on a large infotainment display centered on a simple dashboard. An all-glass roof lends an airy ambience to the cabin but is heavily tinted to avoid roasting occupants in Sun Belt states. The optional third row of seats adds a steep $3000 to the Model Y’s price—we can’t imagine they’ll be spacious enough for adults to ride in comfort.