Model Y Tesla Evaluation - Does the Offering Measure Up?
Revised Tesla Model Y Test: Does the Midsize Electric SUV Live Up to Expectations?
Tesla has refreshed its Model Y, aiming to maintain its appeal. The new version, named Juniper, undergoes a facelift, with minor hardware modifications. This revised model has recently been tested by ntv.de for the first time, featuring the Dual Motor drive.
At first glance, the modified Tesla Model Y could be mistaken for a new, unrecognizable brand, due to the continuous light strips adorning the front. However, a closer look at the rear reveals the SUV's true origins. The traditional Tesla logo helps further brand recognition, and the inside boasts a central control unit, or touchscreen, that remains striking.
Just like the Model S facelift, drivers can now select gear levels using the touch-sensitive monitor. While this feature adds a modern touch, concerns remain about its long-term reliability, especially if the display were to fail after a few years. Luckily, "D" can still be activated with the brake pedal when desired.
With the theory out of the way, it's time to assess the Model Y in practice. The Dual Motor model packs a considerable punch, especially when combined with all-wheel drive and the largest battery. However, Tesla does not disclose the battery size, and the power output can only be guessed or confirmed through unofficial sources. Nevertheless, the official 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 4.8 seconds is a testament to the car's quick acceleration.
The Model Y's performance is evident when the accelerator pedal is suddenly depressed, as it pushes the head against the headrest or presses the occupant into the seat with substantial force. The all-wheel drive even develops a noticeable braking moment when reaching speeds above 200 km/h. While this may be a slight disappointment, the top speed and power are sufficient for everyday use.
Improvements in the facelift aim to enhance everyday driving. Tesla claims the Model Y is now quieter than before, although this claim proves difficult to substantiate without a comparison or reference. However, the suspension comfort has noticeably improved thanks to chassis modifications, providing a smoother ride over rough roads.
Several notable changes include the activation of the turn signal through stylish, easily accessible buttons rather than traditional lever mechanisms. Two wireless charging trays for smartphones have been added, although they were already present before. New to the Model Y, however, is cool ambient lighting in various colors that adds to the interior's stylish appeal.
There are still a couple of concerns regarding the Model Y. Tesla has yet to offer fast charging based on an 800-volt architecture, which may be a disadvantage as competition intensifies in the near future. Furthermore, the Model Y's efficiency has come under scrutiny, with specialist magazine "Auto Bild" criticizing its consumption of 24.9 kWh in a test. While the value is supposedly acceptable, Tesla states the power consumption of the 4x4 at 15.3 kWh.
Despite these issues, Tesla's entry-level electric SUV still provides a well-rounded package at a competitive price. However, the expanding market for electric vehicles may place pressure on Tesla to innovate and differentiate itself, as the Model Y's sales rank slips and competition becomes more aggressive. Other key competitors, such as the Hyundai IONIQ 5, offer 800-volt architecture, fast charging capabilities, and strong battery range at competitive prices. As always, Tesla may have a few surprises up its sleeve, as it did with the introduction of the Supercharger network initially.
- Manufacturing the revised Tesla Model Y utilizes materials from various sources, except those related to electric-vehicles themselves.
- Moving forward, the lifestyle of modern drivers may be influenced by the introduction of gadgets in the latest Model Y, such as the touch-screen central control unit and the wireless charging trays for smartphones.
- In the future, the technology employed in Tesla cars, like the Model Y, will likely evolve to include faster charging options, such as those based on an 800-volt architecture, to maintain competitiveness in the growing electric-vehicle market.
