Tesla Model Y review – Electric motor, drive & performance

Nobody is ever likely to describe the Tesla Model Y Performance as lacking in speed, with a 0-60mph time in the region of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 150mph it's amongst the fastest SUVs on sale. There's instant acceleration when you press the throttle, followed by sustained acceleration that a Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 or BMW X3 M would struggle to match. In reality, even the entry-level Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive model should be plenty quick enough for most family car buyers and its longer range is likely to mean it’s more usable day-to-day.

Because the Model Y is heavier than the Model 3, the suspension has been stiffened slightly. That means the ride is quite firm, which wasn’t helped by the large 20-inch wheels on our test car. Hit a big pothole and you’ll notice it more in the Model Y than in a Skoda Enyaq. We’d stick to the standard 19-inch wheels, so it’s worth noting that the Performance gets even bigger 21-inch wheels.

Though many of the Model Y models are more powerful on paper, a BMW iX1 is the more fulfilling electric SUV to drive in terms of handling prowess – it even rides better than the Model Y, although it’s still firm in its own right.

Regenerative braking as you release the accelerator can be adjusted and in its maximum setting, it slows the Model Y noticeably, negating the need to use the brake pedal in most circumstances. It takes a bit of getting used to when first making the switch from a petrol or diesel model but quickly makes sense and can become rather addictive as energy is put back into the battery to improve range.

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Tesla Model Y electric motors

While the aforementioned Model Y Performance may be the halo version of the lineup, the other two offerings will make more sense for most buyers. The Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive still boasts an impressive 342bhp propelling it from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds. For added traction and performance, the Long Range All-Wheel Drive gets 384bhp and does the same sprint in 4.8 seconds.