First Drive: Tesla Model Y Has Nimble Handling and Impressive Power Delivery
CR's engineers caution buyers on the SUV's stiff ride, unintuitive controls, and Tesla's first-year reliability issues
The Model Y is Tesla’s fourth mainstream vehicle after the Model S and Model 3 sedans, and the Model X SUV. It’s essentially the SUV version of the 3, using shared components and delivering a similar driving experience.
Although the Model Y starts at $41,000, the long-range versions are first out of the gate. This bumps up the price by almost $12,000. The EPA rates this version at 316 miles of range. We believe that with any electric vehicle, buyers should opt for the largest battery and longest range to hedge against any unforeseen needs and adverse cold-climate effects.
Update: Since this first drive was originally published in June, 2020, we finished testing the Tesla Model Y.
Read the complete Model Y road test.
What we bought: 2020 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
Powertrain: 384-hp combined from two electric motors, 1-speed direct drive; all-wheel drive.
MSRP: $41,000
Options: $11,990 Long Range Dual Motor AWD, $7,000 Full Self-Driving Capability, Destination fee: $1,200
Total cost: $61,190
