Tesla Model Y Review: A Model 3 on Stilts, But the One that Everyone Wants

What we like:

Space

Minimalist interior design

Comfortable

What we dislike:

Keyless entry system

Drive regeneration cannot be turned off

Harsh ride

Every car brand has an equivalent SUV to its sedan model in its model line-up to ensure that it keeps up with consumer demands. Let’s name a few shall we? Mercedes’ GLC built on the C, BMW’s X3 built on the 3, Toyota’s Harrier built on the Camry and the list goes on. Somehow, consumers tend to gravitate towards SUVs for their space, comfort and ride height and manufacturers are listening. Tesla for one, has not forgotten this too.

The Tesla Model Y is not the 1st SUV in Tesla’s model line-up but it is closely related to the Model 3 and it can be said to be the 1st Tesla SUV that is built for the masses. The Model Y looks just like a Model 3 that is been stretched vertically, literally, in terms of ride and roof height.

Let’s talk about the Model Y’s looks. The front end looks exactly like a Model 3 but go beyond the A-pillars and the roof sill rises rather steeply before tapering off towards the rear. The car actually has a fastback-esque design which increases its cool factor. When viewed from the side and front-quarter, the car may look slightly disproportionate. I personally prefer the looks of the Model 3 but as with all SUVs, there is no quick recipe to having both space and sleekness.

Spaciousness is definitely a strong selling point for the Model Y. It has plenty of space for 5 passengers and their belongings. The all-glass roof further accentuates the large cabin space. Having a raised ride height also makes ingress and egress easier for all passengers.

Drop the rear seats and the car has more than 2,100 litres of cargo space.

On the inside, passengers are greeted by a minimalist interior. The upholstery and dash accents are white and it makes the interior a very cosy place to be in. Tesla has also done an excellent job with the seat design – they are very supportive and comfortable. Made-in-China build quality is commendable and the car feels solidly put together with doors that close with a thump.

Like all Teslas, the Model Y has no dials or instrument clusters. Everything is controlled by the 15-inch touchscreen display that takes centre stage on the dashboard. It feels like a supersized Apple product right down to the user profiles (driver profiles in this instance). Driver preferences and settings such as mirror, steering and seat adjustments are all determined digitally.

Something that drivers may need getting used to could be the fact that wiper speed and headlights are also controlled via the touchscreen but if you are fine with Auto settings then it would not be a problem!

On the move, the single motor RWD Model Y gets from 0 to 100 in 6.9s and up to a top speed of 217 km/h. According to Tesla, the maximum range per charge is 455 km. In order to maximise the battery range, regenerative braking cannot be turned off. Being a SUV, the ride is harsher over rough road surfaces but it is a trade-off with the stiffer suspension that is made for better handling.

The Model Y has built upon the Model 3’s success and will likely be the hot favourite amongst new Tesla buyers moving forward with its excellent interior packaging and practicality.

Photos by Horizon Drivers' Club

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