Tesla Model Y Review: Is This the Best All-Around EV?

Key Takeaways

• Tesla Model Y review: The Model Y is one of the best EVs because it has a roomy interior and a stylish look that will appeal to both families and tech fans.
• Over-the-air changes and Tesla's Autopilot make sure that the experience is secure, and tech-forward experience. Will this make the Model Y a benchmark for safety in EVs? Keep reading for more insights!
• Starting at AUD 63,900, it delivers excellent features and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, making it a smart investment. Can the Model Y outvalue competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5?

1. Overview of the Tesla Model Y

Overview of the Tesla Model Y

Elegant and roomy, the Tesla Model Y is truly a popular electric SUV in 2024.

The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that combines excellent range, cutting-edge technology, and a dynamic design. Positioned as an all-rounder in Tesla's stocks, it appeals to both tech enthusiasts and families. Tesla Model Y’s reputation in the EV market has been established by its spacious inside and comfortable driver-assistance technologies.

Key Features and Updates in the 2024 Version

• Enhanced Range: The 2024 Model Y boasts improved battery efficiency, with ranges varying by trim level (up to 542 km on the Long Range model).
• Hardware 4.0: The latest Autopilot and Full Self-Driving technology enhancements improve safety and automation capabilities.
• New Colors: Fresh exterior colour options, such as Midnight Cherry Red and Quicksilver, add a stylish flair.
• Interior Upgrades: A quieter cabin, improved seating materials, and a revised steering wheel enhance comfort and usability.
• Performance Boosts: Faster acceleration and tighter handling make the driving experience more engaging, particularly in the Performance trim.

2. Performance and Driving Experience

The Tesla Model Y delivers a dynamic driving experience tailored for both urban commutes and long-distance travel. With its electric powertrain, the Model Y excels in smooth acceleration, precise handling, and efficient braking, making it a favourite for Australian EV enthusiasts. Here are some keys of the Tesla Model Y review you should consider:

Australian EV fans love the Model Y's electric powertrain for its smooth acceleration.

Acceleration, Handling, and Braking in Australian Conditions

Acceleration: Ideal for rapid overtakes on highways or merging into fast-moving traffic, the Model Y's performance trim speeds from 0–100km/h in only 3.7 seconds. Designed for regular drivers, the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) model provides a more moderate but still strong acceleration of roughly 6.9 seconds to 100km/h.

• Handling: On Australian road conditions, Tesla's dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) technology in the Long Range and Performance trims offers outstanding grip. The underfloor battery design lowers the car's centre of gravity, making it stable on tight turns and winding country roads.
• Braking: It is more efficient to use regenerative brakes because it get energy back when the car slows down. This helps a lot when you're stuck in city traffic. Also, Tesla's advanced stopping system makes sure that stops are safe, even on the rough terrain of Australia.

Range and Battery Performance on Australian Roads

• Long Range Trim: The Model Y Long Range trim offers up to 530 km (WLTP) on a single charge, making it perfect for cross-country trips like Melbourne to Sydney with minimal charging stops.
• Performance Trim: Slightly reduced range at around 488 km, but the sporty driving experience makes up for it.
• RWD Trim: Provides up to 455 km on a single charge, suitable for city commutes and regional travel.

The Model Y's range may change in Australia based on the weather, the terrain, and the way you drive. Hot weather and rocky areas can make things less efficient. However, Tesla's Supercharger network is growing across Australia, making it easier to recharge during long trips.

3. Interior and Comfort

The inside of the Tesla Model Y is simple and modern, with a focus on functionality and style. Its cabin has clean lines, high-quality materials, and a panoramic glass roof that makes it feel open and airy. There are different types of seats. The standard two-row configuration can fit five people, and an extra third row can accommodate seven people. 

With the back seats folded flat, there is a lot of room for cargo—up to 2,158 litres—making it perfect for family trips or carrying bigger things. The 15-inch tablet is the centre of attention inside the car. It handles almost all of its functions, from navigation to climate control.

Tesla Model Y interiors are simple and modern

Still, wait, there's more! 

The Model Y is very comfortable and can handle long trips and Australia's wide range of weather conditions with ease. The seats are made of vegan leather, which makes them both elegant and long-lasting. 

They also have wonderful back support. With dual-zone climate control, drivers can pick how comfortable they want to be. The car also blocks out noise, so it stays quiet even when going fast on the highway. 

It has Tesla's smart software built right into the entertainment system. It gives advice based on maps, video services, and changes made over the air in Australia. The Model Y is a terrific EV for people in Australia because it blends comfort and technology in a way that makes sense.

4. Safety and Technology

The Tesla Model Y has high-tech safety features that are meant to make it safer and easier for drivers to use in a variety of situations. One of the most important is Tesla's Autopilot system, which has features like staying in your lane, adaptive speed control, and emergency braking.

When these features are turned on, they make driving easier and safer, both on freeways and in cities. The Model Y also has a stiff body structure, elements that absorb impact, and a low centre of gravity, all of which make it safer in a crash.

Regular software changes, which are an important part of driving the Model Y, show that Tesla is committed to new ideas. These changes, which are sent over-the-air, add new features, improve the performance of current systems and add new features.

Updates often include changes that make the Autopilot work better, the user interface looks better, and the energy economy better. This keeps the Model Y at the cutting edge of car technology. The Tesla Model Y is a model for current electric cars because it combines safety and cutting-edge technology.

5. Price and Value in Australia

Here is the Tesla Model Y review Australia of Price and Value:

Price and Value of Tesla Model Y Review in Australia

Firstly, what is the price of the Tesla Model Y in 2024?

In 2024, the Tesla Model Y was the most popular new car among private buyers in Australia. Before on-road costs, the range starts at AUD 63,900 and goes up to AUD 82,900 for the top-of-the-line Performance model.

Here is a table summarising the price of the Tesla Model Y in Australia based on our latest available information for 2024:

Trim Level	Price (AUD)	Range (WLTP)	Key Features
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)	$63,900	455 km	194 kW motor, 15-inch touchscreen, tinted glass roof
Long Range AWD	$72,900	533km	Dual motors, LED fog lights, additional features from RWD
Performance AWD	$82,900	514km	Dual motors, 21-inch wheels, 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds

So, how about the value of them?

The Tesla Model Y is a great deal in Australia's growing market for electric cars because it has a lot of great features and isn't overpriced. 

The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) model starts at AUD 63,900, making it an affordable way to own an electric vehicle. It comes with standard Tesla technology, like a 15-inch touchscreen and a stylish tinted glass roof. There is a good mix of price and features in the RWD model for people who want to switch to an EV.

Long Range AWD, priced at AUD 72,900, is a better bargain for anyone looking for greater range and practicality. It comes with twin motors and upgrades that make it suited for different types of driving conditions. 

Compared to cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Kia EV6, the Model Y is easier to use and lasts longer because Tesla has a larger network of Superchargers. The Model Y stands out as an excellent purchase for Australian buyers because it has cutting-edge technology, useful range choices, and a strong support ecosystem.

6. Pros and Cons of the Tesla Model Y

Pros and Cons of the Tesla Model Y

Pros

• Impressive Range: The Tesla Model Y offers a substantial electric range, with the Long Range AWD achieving up to 533 km on a single charge​.  This makes it a great choice for long-distance driving and everyday commuting without frequent charging.
• Performance: The fast Model Y Performance model can hit 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, making it one of the fastest electric SUVs available. Dual-motor all-wheel drive improves handling and traction, boosting driving.
• Technology and Features: Tesla is known for its cutting-edge tech, and the Model Y is no exception. It comes standard with a 15-inch touchscreen, Autopilot, and wireless phone charging, along with advanced safety features like Autonomous Emergency Braking. ​These features make the Model Y a tech-forward and user-friendly vehicle.
• Supercharger Network: One of Tesla’s biggest advantages is access to its proprietary Supercharger network, providing faster charging times compared to many competitors​.

Cons

• Interior Quality: The Model Y has a lot of high-tech features, but the materials inside might not feel as high-end as those in other cars in the same price range.
• Price: Some other electric SUVs in its class are cheaper than the Model Y. This is especially true in Australia, where the Luxury Car Tax (LCT) is involved. The price may discourage some people from buying it, even though it has a lot of great features.
• Build Quality: There have been occasional reports of inconsistent build quality, such as panel gaps or paint issues, though Tesla has made efforts to improve quality control.​
• Ride Comfort: The Model Y's suspension setup, designed for performance, may not be as comfortable on rough roads compared to some other electric SUVs

7. Customer Feedback and Reviews

Customer feedback and expert Tesla Model Y reviews in Australia are highlighting its strengths and areas for improvement. A lot of owners love how far their vehicle can go, especially the Long Range model, which can go up to 533 km on a single charge.

People frequently compliment the advanced Tesla app as a feature that stands out. It lets you handle and manage your car from a distance. Many people also like how easy it is to go on long trips with Tesla's large network of Superchargers. Drivers like how fast it goes and how well it moves, especially in the AWD Performance type. 

However,...

Some Australian drivers are worried about the Model Y's ride quality, saying it's firmer than other SUVs on the market. Different people have different opinions about the interior. 

Some like the simple design, but others think it lacks high-end touches for the price. Some people have also said that the lack of temperature settings and roof sunshades in the back is a problem. Even with these problems, the Model Y is praised as a strong contender in its class, with excellent value for its price and cutting-edge technology.

Here’s Mr John - customer feedback from an Australian Tesla Y reviewer:

Customer feedback

"The Model Y’s range is fantastic, and I appreciate the convenience of the Tesla app for controlling features like pre-cooling the cabin on hot days. However, the ride can feel too firm, especially on rough roads, and I wish the interior offered more premium touches for the price."