Tesla Model Y: Price, Specs, Range, Features & Review

Price (Starting From):~ $40,990

The Tesla Model Y is a midsize electric crossover built for buyers who want more cargo room, easier entry, and greater family practicality than the Tesla Model 3 without moving into a large electric SUV.

It suits commuters, families, high-mileage drivers, road-trip buyers, and shoppers who want access to Tesla’s charging, navigation, mobile-app, and software ecosystem in a practical five-seat crossover.

The current U.S. lineup includes value-focused rear-wheel-drive models, longer-range Premium versions, the much quicker Model Y Performance, and the new extended-wheelbase Model Y L with three rows and six seats.

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Key Highlights

Premium RWD Price: $45,990
Premium AWD Price: $49,990
Performance Price: $57,990
Model Y L Price: Approximately $62,000
Body Type: Midsize electric crossover SUV
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers; 6 in the Model Y L
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive
Best EPA-Estimated Range: Up to 357 miles
Performance Range: Approximately 308 miles
Fastest 0–60 MPH Time: About 3.3 seconds
Maximum DC Charging Rate: Up to 250 kW on Premium and Performance versions
Maximum Cargo Capacity: Up to approximately 75.5 cu ft in five-seat Premium and Performance models
Best For: Families, commuters, road trips, home-charging households, and buyers who want an efficient electric crossover

Tesla raised U.S. Model Y pricing in May 2026.

Specifications

Spec	Details
Brand	Tesla
Model	Model Y
Vehicle Type	Electric midsize crossover
Body Style	5-door SUV
Production	2020–present
Fuel Type	Electricity
Seats	5 / 6 in Model Y L
Drivetrain	RWD / dual-motor AWD
Transmission	Single-speed reduction gear
EPA Range	Approximately 303–357 miles, depending on trim and wheels
Maximum DC Charging	Up to 250 kW
Standard Cargo Behind Rear Seats	Approximately 29.0–29.5 cu ft
Front Trunk	Approximately 4.0–4.1 cu ft
Maximum Cargo	Approximately 74.8–75.5 cu ft
Main Rivals	Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, Nissan Ariya, Chevrolet Equinox EV

Tesla lists approximately 29 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 71.4 cubic feet behind the first row in Premium and Performance versions. Including the front trunk, maximum total cargo capacity reaches about 75.5 cubic feet.

Expert Tip

For most buyers, the Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive is the best version to consider first. It offers the strongest range in the lineup, the fuller Premium interior, quick charging, and enough performance for daily driving without the added weight and cost of a second motor.

About the Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is Tesla’s midsize electric crossover and its more practical alternative to the Model 3 sedan.

It entered production in 2020 and quickly became central to Tesla’s global vehicle lineup. The Model Y combines the Model 3’s basic electric architecture and software-focused ownership experience with a taller roof, hatchback cargo opening, greater ground clearance, and more flexible rear seating.

Tesla gave the Model Y a major redesign for 2025. The update changed the exterior lighting, revised the suspension, reduced cabin noise, improved materials, enlarged the center display, added a rear passenger touchscreen to Premium versions, and made the crossover feel more refined than the original model.

The Model Y’s main advantage is that it combines range, charging, cargo capacity, software, and broad market familiarity better than many rivals. It is not the most luxurious electric crossover, but it remains one of the easiest EVs to recommend to buyers who can charge at home.

Price & Trims

Version	Starting Price	Drivetrain	Approx. Range	Best For
Model Y RWD	About $40,990	RWD	Up to 321 miles	Lowest purchase price
Model Y Premium RWD	$45,990	RWD	Up to 357 miles	Maximum range
Model Y Premium AWD	$49,990	Dual-motor AWD	Up to 327 miles	Range, speed, and traction
Model Y Performance	$57,990	Dual-motor AWD	About 308 miles	Maximum performance
Model Y L	About $62,000	Market-dependent AWD layout	Not fully standardized at launch	Six-seat family use

Tesla increased prices for the Premium RWD, Premium AWD, and Performance versions in May 2026. Prices remain subject to frequent changes, inventory discounts, financing offers, regional fees, and Tesla’s direct-order system.

Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive

The entry Model Y RWD is the value-focused version.

It keeps the basic crossover body, five-seat cabin, central touchscreen, Tesla navigation, mobile-app functions, route planning, active-safety features, and charging access.

However, Tesla simplified its equipment compared with Premium versions. Depending on current production specification, differences may include:

Simpler seat upholstery
Smaller or less powerful audio system
No rear passenger touchscreen
No ventilated front seats
No heated rear seats
Less ambient lighting
Fewer power-adjustment functions
Simpler suspension hardware
Lower maximum fast-charging output
Reduced standard driver-assistance functionality

Tesla introduced this lower-cost version to create more price separation below the Premium RWD. It is best treated as a budget-oriented Model Y rather than the default trim.

Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive

The Premium RWD is the range-focused sweet spot.

Tesla rates it at up to approximately 357 miles with the standard wheel setup. Optional larger wheels reduce that estimate to around 344 miles.

This version makes the most sense for:

Long commutes
Regular highway trips
Buyers without nightly charging access
Drivers who want fewer charging stops
Warm-weather markets where AWD is less important
Buyers who want Premium cabin features without paying for a second motor

Model Y Premium All-Wheel Drive

The Premium AWD adds a front motor for stronger acceleration and improved traction.

Its range is approximately 327 miles with standard wheels and about 303 miles with larger wheels.

This is the best all-around version for buyers who want:

Better wet-weather traction
Stronger highway passing
Snow and winter capability
Premium interior features
Good range without choosing the Performance

Model Y Performance

The Performance is the quickest five-seat Model Y.

It adds a more powerful dual-motor setup, 21-inch wheels, performance brakes, adaptive suspension, sportier seats, revised exterior details, and track-focused software.

Tesla lists approximately 308 miles of EPA-estimated range and a 3.3-second 0–60 mph time.

It is the right choice for drivers who want speed and sharper responses. It is not the strongest choice for buyers prioritizing range, comfort, tire life, or low ownership cost.

Model Y L

The Model Y L is a longer-wheelbase, three-row version with six seats.

It adds a third row, greater total passenger space, and more cargo flexibility than the five-seat Model Y. Its price begins around $62,000 in the U.S., placing it above the Performance model.

The Model Y L makes sense for:

Families who occasionally need six seats
Buyers who find the regular Model Y too small
Shoppers replacing a Model X
Drivers who want three rows without moving to a larger gas SUV

Buyers should still test the third row carefully. Extended-wheelbase crossovers can offer more room than compact three-row SUVs, but they may not match the adult comfort or cargo access of a purpose-built larger EV.

All prices exclude destination, order fees, taxes, registration, paint, wheels, software purchases, charging equipment, insurance, and regional incentives.

Battery, Motors, Performance & Range

Tesla uses single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive layouts across the Model Y range.

Battery capacity is not always published consistently, so range, charging speed, warranty, and real-world efficiency are more useful for most buyers than estimated pack size alone.

Model Y RWD

Item	Model Y RWD
Motor Layout	Single rear motor
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
EPA Range	Up to approximately 321 miles
0–60 MPH	About 6.8 seconds
Maximum Charging	Up to approximately 225 kW
Best Use	Affordable daily EV use

The entry RWD model prioritizes cost and efficiency rather than speed. It is still responsive in city driving because electric torque arrives immediately.

Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive

Item	Model Y Premium RWD
Motor Layout	Single rear motor
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
EPA Range	Up to approximately 357 miles
0–60 MPH	Approximately 5.4 seconds
Maximum Charging	Up to approximately 250 kW
Best Use	Maximum range and road trips

The Premium RWD provides the strongest range in the current five-seat lineup.

Model Y Premium All-Wheel Drive

Item	Model Y Premium AWD
Motor Layout	Dual motor
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive
EPA Range	Up to approximately 327 miles
0–60 MPH	Approximately 4.6 seconds
Maximum Charging	Up to approximately 250 kW
Best Use	All-weather driving and stronger acceleration

The Premium AWD gives up some range but feels significantly quicker and more secure in difficult conditions.

Model Y Performance

Item	Model Y Performance
Motor Layout	Dual motor
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive
EPA Range	Approximately 308 miles
0–60 MPH	3.3 seconds
Top Speed	Approximately 155 mph
Wheels	21 inches
Best Use	High-performance road driving

The Performance is much quicker than most family crossovers. Independent testing has recorded approximately 3.3 seconds to 60 mph, matching Tesla’s claimed figure.

Driving Experience

The Model Y feels more like a tall Model 3 than a traditional SUV.

Its battery sits low beneath the cabin, helping reduce body roll and giving the crossover a stable, planted feel. Steering is quick, visibility is good, and the raised seating position makes it easier to enter and exit than the Model 3.

The redesigned suspension is more comfortable than the setup used in earlier Model Y vehicles. Road and wind noise have also been reduced, making the latest version better suited to long trips.

Rear-Wheel-Drive Models

RWD versions feel calm, predictable, and efficient.

The entry model is slower but adequate for city driving and highway merging. The Premium RWD feels noticeably stronger and is the better long-distance choice.

Rear-wheel drive can work well in winter with suitable tires, but buyers regularly facing snow, ice, or steep roads may prefer AWD.

Premium All-Wheel Drive

The Premium AWD feels faster and more effortless.

Its second motor improves traction and passing response, especially when the vehicle is carrying passengers or cargo.

It is the best balance for drivers who want strong acceleration without moving into the more aggressive Performance trim.

Performance

The Performance feels significantly sharper.

It accelerates hard, turns more quickly, and uses adaptive suspension to control body movement. Its larger wheels and lower-profile tires make the ride firmer, however, and road damage is more likely to cause expensive wheel or tire problems.

For most buyers, the Premium AWD is the more comfortable daily vehicle.

Range, Charging & Efficiency

Version	Approximate EPA Range
Model Y RWD	Up to 321 miles
Model Y Premium RWD	Up to 357 miles
Model Y Premium AWD	Up to 327 miles
Model Y Performance	About 308 miles

Optional larger wheels reduce range. Tesla’s estimates show the Premium RWD falling from about 357 miles to 344 miles with larger wheels, while the Premium AWD falls from about 327 miles to 303 miles.

Supercharging

Premium and Performance versions support charging at up to approximately 250 kW under suitable conditions. The entry Model Y may be limited to around 225 kW.

Tesla states that the amount of range added in 15 minutes depends on vehicle efficiency, battery state, charger type, temperature, speed, weather, and elevation.

Charging is normally fastest when:

The battery is warm
The navigation system has preconditioned the pack
The battery begins at a low state of charge
A high-output Supercharger is available
Ambient temperatures are moderate

Charging speed falls as the battery fills.

Home Charging

Home charging is the simplest and usually least expensive ownership setup.

A Level 2 charger can replace most daily driving overnight. Owners should check:

Electrical-panel capacity
Available charging amperage
Installation cost
Cable route
Parking access
Utility off-peak rates
Local permits
Whether charging equipment is included

Real-World Range

Real-world range can fall below the EPA estimate because of:

High highway speed
Cold weather
Cabin heating
Heavy air-conditioning use
Strong headwinds
Rain or snow
Large wheels
Low tire pressure
Passenger and cargo load
Elevation changes
Battery age
Aggressive acceleration

Buyers focused on range should choose the Premium RWD with the smallest available wheels.

0–60 MPH Acceleration

Version	Approximate 0–60 MPH	Character
Model Y RWD	About 6.8 seconds	Adequate and efficiency-focused
Premium RWD	About 5.4 seconds	Quick enough for most buyers
Premium AWD	About 4.6 seconds	Strong everyday performance
Performance	About 3.3 seconds	Sports-car-level acceleration

The Performance delivers much more speed than a family crossover needs. The Premium AWD is already quick enough for immediate highway merging and easy overtaking.

Interior, Comfort & Technology

The Model Y uses a minimalist cabin centered around a large touchscreen.

The updated Premium and Performance versions include a 16-inch center display and an 8-inch rear passenger screen.

Depending on version, interior features may include:

16-inch center touchscreen
Rear passenger display
Wireless phone charging
Multiple USB-C ports
Heated front seats
Ventilated front seats
Heated rear seats
Multi-zone climate control
Premium audio system
Ambient lighting
Panoramic glass roof
HEPA filtration
Power-adjustable rear seats
Phone key
Sentry Mode
Dog Mode
Camp Mode
Over-the-air software updates
Navigation with charging-stop planning

The entry RWD version uses a simpler specification and may omit several of these features.

Front-Seat Comfort

The front seats provide a high, crossover-style seating position and broad adjustment.

The glass area and low dashboard create a clear forward view. The redesigned seats and quieter cabin make current models better for long-distance driving than early Model Y examples.

Rear-Seat Comfort

Rear space is one of the Model Y’s practical strengths.

The flat floor improves foot room, and the tall roof gives adults more headroom than the Model 3. The rear seatbacks fold flat for cargo, while Premium versions add powered seat adjustment.

Controls and Interface

Most vehicle functions are managed through the center screen.

This includes:

Climate settings
Mirrors
Steering-wheel adjustment
Wipers
Charging
Navigation
Drive settings
Media
Safety systems

The interface is responsive, but buyers who prefer physical buttons, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or a conventional instrument display may not like the layout.

Dimensions & Practicality

Cargo Measurement	Model Y
Front Trunk	4.0–4.1 cu ft
Behind Second Row	29.0–29.5 cu ft
Behind First Row	70.8–71.4 cu ft
Maximum Total Cargo With Five Passengers	33.1–33.5 cu ft
Maximum Total Cargo With Front Occupants	74.8–75.5 cu ft

Tesla’s owner documentation lists 29.5 cubic feet behind the second row for the entry Model Y and 29.0 cubic feet for Premium and Performance versions. Maximum total cargo reaches 74.8 or 75.5 cubic feet, depending on configuration.

The Model Y is significantly more practical than the Model 3 because of:

Taller cargo opening
Fold-flat rear seats
Greater roof height
Front trunk
Deep underfloor storage
Easier child-seat access
Higher seating position

It works well for groceries, luggage, strollers, pets, outdoor gear, and normal family use.

The sloping rear roof still limits very tall cargo compared with boxier SUVs. Buyers carrying large dogs, upright equipment, or frequent bulky loads should compare it with the Kia EV9, Volkswagen ID.4, or a more conventional SUV.

Safety Features & Ratings

The Model Y includes a camera-based driver-assistance and collision-avoidance system.

Common features include:

Automatic emergency braking
Forward collision warning
Blind-spot warning
Blind-spot intervention
Lane-departure warning
Lane-keeping assistance
Adaptive cruise control
Driver monitoring
Automatic high beams
Parking cameras
Speed-limit display
Traffic-aware cruise control
Autosteer where included
Optional Full Self-Driving capability

Full Self-Driving requires active driver supervision. It does not make the Model Y autonomous, and the driver remains responsible at all times.

NHTSA announced in May 2026 that later-production 2026 Model Y vehicles built on or after November 12, 2025, passed its newly added tests for pedestrian automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, blind-spot warning, and blind-spot intervention. The Model Y also passed the agency’s earlier forward-collision-warning, braking, and lane-departure evaluations.

IIHS awarded the 2025 Model Y Top Safety Pick+ status for vehicles meeting the applicable build-date requirements. The older IIHS rating set applied to 2020–25 vehicles, so buyers should check the exact model year and production date rather than assuming every Model Y shares identical results.

Safety disclaimer: For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.

Reliability & Ownership

The Model Y has fewer routine powertrain service requirements than a gasoline SUV.

It does not need engine-oil changes, spark plugs, exhaust-system work, or conventional transmission servicing.

However, ownership is not maintenance-free.

Common Ownership Costs

Tires
Wheel alignment
Cabin air filters
Windshield washer fluid
Brake-fluid checks
Climate-system service
Suspension components
Glass and body repairs
Insurance
Charging-equipment installation
Out-of-warranty cameras, screens, or electronics

Immediate electric torque and high vehicle weight can increase tire wear. Larger wheels also cost more to replace and are more vulnerable to potholes.

Warranty

Warranty	Coverage
Basic Vehicle	4 years / 50,000 miles
Supplemental Restraint System	5 years / 60,000 miles
Model Y RWD / AWD Battery and Drive Unit	8 years / 100,000 miles
Premium RWD / Premium AWD / Performance	8 years / 120,000 miles
Battery Capacity Guarantee	Minimum 70% retention
Body Rust Perforation	12 years / unlimited miles

Tesla provides eight years or 100,000 miles of battery and drive-unit coverage for Model Y RWD and AWD versions. Premium RWD, Premium AWD, Performance, and Model Y L receive eight years or 120,000 miles. Both include a minimum 70% battery-capacity-retention guarantee.

Tesla’s basic warranty lasts four years or 50,000 miles. The supplemental restraint-system warranty lasts five years or 60,000 miles.

Used Model Y Buying Checks

Inspect the following before purchasing:

Battery health and displayed range
Charging speed
Warranty balance
Uneven tire wear
Wheel damage
Suspension noise
Steering alignment
Heat-pump and climate operation
Touchscreen response
Camera clarity
Charge-port condition
Glass-roof damage
Water leaks
Underbody or battery-pack damage
Previous collision repairs
Open recalls
Included software
Whether paid software transfers with the vehicle

Tesla says pre-owned vehicles purchased directly from the company retain the remainder of the original basic warranty and then receive one additional year or 10,000 miles. Remaining battery and drive-unit coverage also continues.

Recalls

Recall applicability depends on model year, production date, hardware, and VIN.

NHTSA published a recall involving certain 2026 Model Y vehicles built between March 27 and July 10, 2025. Buyers should use the vehicle identification number rather than relying only on the model year.

Pros and Cons

What We Like

Excellent cargo capacity for its exterior size
Strong range across Premium versions
Premium RWD offers up to approximately 357 miles
Broad Supercharger access
Fast charging on Premium and Performance trims
Strong energy efficiency
Easy home-charging ownership
Good rear-seat room
Quieter and more comfortable than the original Model Y
Quick acceleration even outside Performance trim
Useful front trunk and underfloor storage
Frequent software updates
Model Y L adds six-seat capability
Strong recent driver-assistance test performance

What We Don’t Like

Most controls depend on the touchscreen
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
No conventional driver instrument display
Entry version removes several desirable features
Larger wheels reduce range and comfort
Performance tires can be expensive
Insurance and collision repairs may cost more than expected
Third-row Model Y L pricing approaches larger electric SUVs
Tesla changes prices and equipment frequently
Service access varies by location
Full Self-Driving branding can create unrealistic expectations
Some rivals offer better cabin materials or faster non-Tesla charging

Should You Buy the Tesla Model Y?

You should buy the Tesla Model Y if you want an efficient electric crossover with strong range, useful cargo capacity, broad charging access, and a simple software-based ownership experience.

The Premium Rear-Wheel Drive is the strongest choice for most range-focused buyers.

The Premium All-Wheel Drive is the better all-rounder for households that face poor weather or want stronger acceleration.

The entry RWD is the value choice, but buyers should verify which Premium features have been removed before ordering.

The Performance is best treated as a specialist version for drivers who care about acceleration and handling more than comfort and tire cost.

The Model Y L makes sense for buyers who need six seats but want to remain within the Tesla ecosystem.

Consider the Hyundai Ioniq 5 if ride comfort, ultra-fast charging, and a more conventional interface matter more.

Consider the Kia EV6 if sharper styling and driving feel are priorities.

Consider the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9 if you need a true three-row electric family SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Tesla Model Y cost?

The Model Y starts at about $40,990 for the entry RWD version. Tesla lists Premium RWD at $45,990, Premium AWD at $49,990, and Performance at $57,990 following May 2026 price increases.

What is the Tesla Model Y range?

Current estimates run from about 308 miles for the Performance to approximately 357 miles for the Premium RWD.

Which Tesla Model Y has the longest range?

The Premium Rear-Wheel Drive has the longest estimated range at up to approximately 357 miles.

Is the Tesla Model Y all-wheel drive?

Some versions are. Premium AWD and Performance use dual-motor all-wheel drive. Entry and Premium RWD versions are rear-wheel drive.

How fast is the Tesla Model Y?

The entry RWD takes about 6.8 seconds from 0–60 mph. Premium RWD takes around 5.4 seconds, Premium AWD around 4.6 seconds, and Performance about 3.3 seconds.

How long does it take to charge a Tesla Model Y?

Charging time depends on battery level, battery temperature, charger output, and trim. Premium and Performance models can accept up to approximately 250 kW under suitable conditions.

Can the Tesla Model Y charge at home?

Yes. A Level 2 home charger can replace most daily driving overnight.

How much cargo space does the Model Y have?

Five-seat Premium and Performance versions provide about 29 cubic feet behind the second row and up to approximately 75.5 cubic feet of maximum total cargo capacity, including the front trunk.

Does the Tesla Model Y have a third row?

The regular Model Y is primarily a five-seat vehicle. The Model Y L adds a longer body, three rows, and six seats.

Is the Tesla Model Y safe?

Later-production 2026 Model Y vehicles passed NHTSA’s expanded driver-assistance tests, including pedestrian braking, lane keeping, blind-spot warning, and blind-spot intervention.

Does the Model Y have Apple CarPlay?

No. The Model Y uses Tesla’s own infotainment, navigation, phone, media, and voice-control system.

What is the Tesla Model Y battery warranty?

Model Y RWD and AWD versions receive eight years or 100,000 miles. Premium RWD, Premium AWD, Performance, and Model Y L receive eight years or 120,000 miles, with at least 70% battery-capacity retention.

Is the Tesla Model Y reliable?

The electric drivetrain requires fewer routine services than a gasoline SUV, but buyers should still budget for tires, suspension, climate-system, electronic, glass, body, and charging-related costs.

Is a used Tesla Model Y worth buying?

A used Model Y can be a strong purchase when battery health, charging speed, tires, suspension, climate system, cameras, warranty coverage, accident repairs, and recall status have been checked carefully.

Is the Model Y better than the Model 3?

The Model Y is better for cargo, rear-seat space, child-seat access, pets, and a higher driving position. The Model 3 is usually more efficient, less expensive, and more engaging to drive.

Summary

The Tesla Model Y remains one of the strongest all-around electric crossovers for buyers who value range, efficiency, charging access, cargo room, and software integration.

Its best version for most buyers is the Premium Rear-Wheel Drive. It combines up to approximately 357 miles of estimated range with Premium cabin features and strong charging capability.

The Premium AWD is the better choice for poor weather and stronger acceleration, while the entry RWD lowers the purchase price by removing some equipment. The Performance delivers sports-car acceleration but adds comfort, range, tire, and insurance trade-offs.