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Tesla Model Y Video Review

The Tesla Model Y has finally landed here in the UK, and Rory Reid is on hand to give you a full expert review - will it become Tesla's biggest seller?

Published on 15 October 2021 | 0 min read

The Tesla Model Y has finally landed here in the UK. It promises all the features of the Model 3, but offers more space, more versatility, and the ability to conquer more of what life might throw at it – this could be the model that becomes Tesla’s biggest seller by far.
People’s expectations for the Tesla Model Y are sky-high. This car now faces dozens of electric SUV rivals, including the VW ID4, Skoda Enyaq, Audi Q4 E-Tron, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6 – all of which are of exceptional quality. To stand out, the Tesla Model Y has to look good, be practical and offer decent range. Does it rise to the challenge? Let’s find out.

Tesla Model Y design

Physically the Model Y looks a lot like a Tesla Model 3, with a larger rear that resembles a slightly shrunken Model X and the overall shape that errs towards SUV over saloon.
There’s the same black finish to the window frame, cameras and the door handles, though the Model Y has a much higher roofline that slopes at the back (almost like a coupe). Black cladding around the wheel arches gives the Model Y a rugged look, it rides much higher than the Model 3. The wheels may appear lost if you opt for the 19-inch variety, but 20-inch and optional 21-inch wheels fill the arches a bit better. The Model Y maintains Tesla’s sleek, polished aesthetic from previous models. If you were a fan before, you’re unlikely to be put off now.

Tesla Model Y interior

The Tesla Model Y’s boot has a wide hatchback opening and is around 842 litres from floor to ceiling. In short: it’s massive and gets even more massive if you fold the seats down using two buttons at the side.
Tesla will, at some stage, offer a seven-seater version, but even this five-seater spec is practical, with plenty of storage space in small cubbies on the left and right and underfloor storage for charging cables. There’s even a sizeable underfloor compartment almost big enough for a medium-sized human being. The 114-litre front trunk is also very sizeable, bigger than the one in the Model 3, although not quite large enough for a person. So, practicality is pretty decent. Up-front it’s basically exactly the same as the Model 3. If you want to know what that’s like, then check out our full review of the Tesla Model 3.

Tesla Model Y range and charging

There are two versions of the Tesla Model Y: Performance and Long Range.
In our video review, Rory is driving the Long Range, which has a battery pack with 70kwh of usable space. This gives it a WLTP range of 315 miles. Because the Model Y is heavier than the Model 3 (which can go 360 miles WLTP), the range isn’t as good. It’s still impressive – 315 miles on a single charge is enough for most drivers – but it’s not leading Tesla’s pack and there are some rivals that offer more. The equivalent Mustang Mach E, for example, will go around 15 miles further according to WLTP figures. Thankfully, the Model Y excels in terms of recharging. It has access to arguably the widest, most reliable charging infrastructure as it can use both the supercharger network and almost any other network. It’ll charge at a very impressive 250kW, which is fast enough to regain 75 miles of range in five minutes at a rate of 1,000 miles of recharging per hour. That’s quicker than most of its rivals.

Tesla Model Y performance

One area where the Tesla Model Y is very impressive, and probably more impressive than its rivals, is performance.
The performance version of the Tesla Model Y can do 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds. Which is ridiculous. Other versions achieve similarly sharp speed. The Tesla Model Y Long Range achieves 0-60 in 4.8 seconds, powered by two motors – one at the front and one at the rear.

Tesla Model Y verdict

The Model Y stands up against pretty much everything on the market. The range is up there with the best, and the infrastructure is better. It’s way faster, the practicality is on point… in fact there’s nowhere this car’s rivals really have a massive advantage.
If you’re looking for an electric crossover, then stick this on your shortlist. Watch the video for Rory’s full verdict, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more exclusive reviews and content.

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