Building on the immensely successful Model 3, it's actually the Tesla Model Y that serves the ongoing crossover/SUV craze. First introduced in 2020, the Model Y is Tesla's most popular model, and just like the Model 3 that it's based on, it is due for a major overhaul. This is today especially true since Tesla is facing some stiff competition in the compact luxury crossover space.
But until that can happen, Tesla has given its Model Y some significant updates for 2023 in order to help it stay competitive against its rivals. Aside from that, the massive price cut's across Tesla cars that have come into effect recently, along with the federal tax credit only further its appeal.
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2023 Tesla Model Y Performance And Capability
Before anything, let's talk specs first. The 2023 Tesla Model Y is offered in two trim levels: Long Range and Performance. The Long Range offers up to 384 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. The Performance Model Y cranks it up to 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Both 2023 Tesla Model Ys are powered by Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive systems that can tow up to 3,550 pounds when equipped with the available Class II tow hitch ($1,000).
With the instant torque, getting off the line was never a problem for the Model Y and in an acceleration test by MotorTrend, the long-range model hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while that figure drops to just 3.5 seconds on the Performance model. The Tesla Model Y 2023 offers a range of up to 330 miles on a single charge and top speeds of up to 155 MPH.
It is also important to understand that when purchasing a 2023 Tesla Model Y, the at-home charging equipment is not included. An additional $350 is required for the house Wall Connector, which must be properly installed. If you do not want to use the Wall Connector with your new Tesla Model Y, Tesla owns and manages a network of Tesla Superchargers that you can use to add up to 200 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes.
Long Range | Performance | |
|---|---|---|
Weight | 4,363 Pounds | 4,398 Pounds |
Range | 330 Miles | 303 Miles |
Acceleration | 0-60 in 4.8 sec. | 0-60 in 3.5 sec. |
Battery Warranty | 8 years or 120,000 Miles | 8 years or 120,000 Miles |
Top Speed | 135 MPH | 155 MPH |
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Exterior Design
When you look glance at the 2023 Tesla Model Y, you will notice many similarities between it and Tesla's Model 3 and the differences in front-end design between the two cars are slight but obvious. The bottom sides of the bumper include slight variations that lend the Model Y a more refined appearance. The absence of chrome on the Model Y is perhaps more obvious. What's not so obvious for 2023 is the missing radar sensors owing to the ongoing chip shortage. Tesla will now rely on cameras instead.
Despite its elegant lines, the Model Y appears slightly more aggressive with black trim and accents. In addition, the Model Y is substantially taller than the Model 3. As you move around the vehicle, you will notice similarities between the Model Y and Tesla's Model X toward the back creating an SUV appearance.
The Model Y hatch appears elevated, providing access to a lower, more ergonomic loading floor, and the wider stance provides the Model Y a bit more breadth. Wheel sizes will affect your final range figures. Stick with the 19-inch option and you'll get the EPA-estimated 330 miles. However, choose the sportier blacked-out 20-inch induction wheels and the range drops to 318 miles.
Pearl White | - |
Midnight Silver | $1,000 |
Deep Blue Metallic | $1,000 |
Solid Black | $1,500 |
Red Multi-Coat | $3,000 |
Overall Length | 187 inches |
Overall Width | 83.8 inches |
Overall Height | 64 inches |
Wheelbase | 113.8 inches |
Ground Clearance | Long Range - 6.8 inches Performance - 6.2 inches |
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Interior Quality And Technology
Available in two interior colors, i.e black or white, the inside of the 2023 Model Y is described as simple and clean by Tesla, with the cabin being distinguished by the absence of numerous knobs, buttons, and switches. However, it's the technology in a Tesla that is one of the most unique interior characteristics. When you first sit in the 2023 Tesla Model Y, your gaze will be drawn to Tesla's 15-inch touchscreen command center. Under it, you'll find a wireless phone charging pad.
You will be able to modify the cabin temperature, control the media, navigate, and use the entertainment features from this command center. While charging your Tesla at a SuperCharger, the entertainment options come in useful. While you wait, you may watch an episode of your favorite show on Netflix, play fun arcade games, or surf the web.
Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) will self-park, drive itself to you when summoned, stop at a stop sign or light, and even make lane changes when passing another vehicle on the highway. Using the navigation system in the 2023 Tesla Model Y differs from most nav systems on the road today because Tesla's navigation system on the Model Y is available with Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000). According to Tesla, the ability to Autosteer on city streets will be introduced to the Full Self-Driving package soon.
One significant distinction between the two trim levels is that the Long Range is available in either a five or seven-seat arrangement for an extra $3,000, while the Performance model is only available in a five-seat layout. Overall, the cabin is intended to flow and provide a comfortable driving experience, and the inclusion of technologies available in a 2023 Tesla Model Y distinguishes its cabin from the competitors.
Seating Capacity | Upto 7 |
Front Head Room | 41.0 in |
Front Leg Room | 41.8 in |
Rear Head Room | 39.4 in |
Rear Leg Room | 40.5 in |
Cargo Capacity | 34.5 cu.ft |
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2023 Tesla Model Y Price, And Availability
After the latest price cuts, the 2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range carries an MSRP of $52,990, with an additional $1,390 towards destination fees. The 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance starts at $56,990. That is close to 20 percent less than the nearly $70,000 asking price, which should put Tesla right back in the game against some of the competition.
Configure your 2023 Tesla Model Y here.
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Safety
The Tesla Model Y 2023 is a compact all-electric SUV designed with safety in mind. The NHTSA has awarded the Tesla Model Y five stars in all safety categories and subcategories. The 2023 Tesla Model Y also earned the IIHS High Safety+ title by attaining top ratings in every crash-worthiness category, but front crash prevention was just as crucial, if not more so. Tesla was able to achieve safety excellence through the construction of a robust roof structure, front impact protection, and the significant application of technology.
The Tesla Model Y is fitted with rear, side, and forward-facing cameras that provide a 360-degree vision and process visual information for the safety and navigation systems at a distance of up to 250 meters. This technology enables the Tesla's computer system to identify neighboring vehicles, traffic signs, and signals, as well as pedestrians and animals, and to provide a comprehensive level of prevention. If safety is your top concern, it will be hard to beat the 2023 Tesla Model Y.
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Main Competition
The Tesla Model Y is not alone in the compact luxury battery-electric crossover SUV segment. Mercedes-Benz EQB,Cadillac Lyriq,Volvo XC40 Recharge, and Genesis GV60 are among its primary competitors. Tesla Model Y offers a greater range and more power than Mercedes-Benz EQB. However, the Mercedes-Benz is substantially less expensive, starting at approximately $54,000, and one of its most popular advantages over the Model Y is the availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as media alternatives.
Unlike the Mercedes-Benz, and if your budget allows it, the BMW iX is also an option. However, it is substantially more expensive than the Tesla Model Y, but the BMW iX is also significantly larger than the Model Y. The iX begins at approximately $84,000 and steadily escalates to about $109,000.
The BMW iX falls short due to its lack of access to Tesla's extensive network of Superchargers and its ineligibility for a tax credit under the new Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 due to its final production location outside of North America and its price exceeding the $80,000 price maximum. With starting prices within $1,500 of each other, the Tesla Model Y and the Genesis GV60 are the most closely priced EV SUVs in this comparison.
The Genesis GV60 is a newcomer to the market, but it doesn't disappoint. Hyundai's luxury division has created a luxurious entry into the marketplace, however, the range on the GV60 falls almost 100 miles short of the Model Y. With nearly identical range on the 2023 Model Y and the Rivian R1S the Rivian is a much bigger vehicle at almost 14" longer and 13" taller with 6" of more width. The Rivian with a towing capacity of 11,000 pounds tows more than three times the Tesla at 3,500 pounds, and the Rivian also earned a Top Safety Pick+ award.
FAQ
Q: What is the life expectancy of the Model Y battery?
Driving an average of 20,000 miles per year, the battery on the Model Y should last between 15 and 25 years.
Q: How much will my power bill increase each month charging my Model Y at home?
The U.S. average cost per mile to charge a Tesla is roughly 4.5 cents per mile. Driving roughly 1650 miles per month will increase your power bill by $74.25.
Q: Does the Tesla Model Y have falcon-wing doors?
No, the Tesla Model Y does not have falcon-wing doors. Its doors open normally because the Model Y features a panoramic glass roof, which is incompatible with a falcon-wing door design.
Q: How much does a Tesla Model Y
The long range 2023 Tesla Model Y starts at $52,990 plus $1,390 towards destination fees. The Performance Tesla Model Y costs $56,990.
