Test-driven review of the Tesla Model Y: Examining its effectiveness
Tesla Model Y Facelift: Modernized Design, Improved Performance, Yet Feeling the Heat from Competitors
In an attempt to maintain its appeal, Tesla has revised its Model Y. The mid-size electric SUV, now labeled Juniper, features a refreshed appearance and tweaked hardware. ntv.de has had the opportunity to test this updated version, complete with a Dual Motor drive.
Upon first encounter, the Model Y's exterior may evoke questions. Its continuous light bars might not initially suggest Tesla's brand, leading one to wonder if it belongs to a new Chinese manufacturer. A glance at the rear, however, reveals the familiar Tesla emblem. Despite the light bar, the SUV is trademark Tesla inside, boasting the trademark central touchscreen.
In practice, the Model Y Dual Motor demonstrates strong performance, particularly when equipped with all-wheel drive and the top battery. Tesla refrains from disclosing the battery size, leaving one to rely on unofficial sources or estimates. The standard sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is quoted as 4.8 seconds.
Acceleration is striking, noticeable even when reaching speeds over 200 km/h. This performance is more than sufficient for daily driving, and the facelift has introduced some welcome improvements to enhance the overall driving experience. Tesla claims that the Model Y is significantly quieter, although practical comparisons are challenging without a reference. The suspension has been noticeably tweaked to provide a smoother ride over uneven roads.
Tesla has opted for conventional turn signal activation, using traditional steering wheel levers, a decision that practicality advocates will appreciate. Wireless charging trays for smartphones are also included, albeit they were previously available. The Model Y introduces ambient lighting in attractive shades, although slightly over-zealous technicians have resulted in the front LED strip reflecting disturbingly in the windshield at night.
The question of rapid charging based on an 800-volt architecture remains a concern. As the competition intensifies and price pressures mount, Tesla's electric SUV faces increasing competition from models like the Skoda Enyaq, Smart #5, and Xpeng G6.
The Skoda Enyaq is not as spacious as the Model Y but is still family-friendly and available at a lower starting price of €33,900. The Smart #5 all-wheel-drive version with top range (586 km) could potentially pose a stiff challenge, priced only €1,530 higher than the Model Y at €55,400. The Xpeng G6 offers a more competitive price starting from €43,600, with nearly the same range and faster charging capabilities.
Tesla's Model Y continues to impress with its combination of strong performance, advanced technology, and brand reputation. However, as rivals emerge, the price advantage begins to fade. Last year, the Model Y led worldwide sales regardless of drive type, but it is now losing ground. If Tesla hopes to maintain its position, it will likely need to focus on significant model innovation rather than cosmetic changes.
Key Comparisons
| Model | Range (WLTP)* | 0–100 km/h (s) | Notable Features ||-----------------|---------------|----------------|----------------------------------------|| Tesla Model Y | ~533–684 km | ~5.0–6.9 | Fast acceleration, Autopilot, large boot[5] || Skoda Enyaq RS | ~545–570 km | ~6.6 | Sporty handling, spacious, practical[2][3] || Xpeng G6 (LR) | ~570 km | ~6.6 | Comfortable ride, advanced tech, large driver display[1][4] |
*Notes: Tesla Model Y range varies by drivetrain and region.
Pricing Breakdown
| Model | Typical Price (AUD, before on-roads) | Notable Pricing Details ||-----------------|--------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------|| Tesla Model Y | ~$70,000+ | Warranty (4 years) less extensive than some competitors[5] || Skoda Enyaq | ~$65,000–$75,000 (varies by trim) | Competitively priced, strong local reviews[3] || Xpeng G6 (LR) | ~$60,000 | Offers strong value for features undercutting Model Y significantly[1] |
In the realm of the automotive industry, Tesla's Model Y competes with various contenders such as the Skoda Enyaq and Xpeng G6, each with distinct advantages. Unlike the Model Y, the Skoda Enyaq, despite not being as spacious, offers a family-friendly ride at a lower starting price of AUD $65,000. The Xpeng G6, priced from AUD $60,000, provides a comfortable ride, advanced technology, and boasts faster charging capabilities, undercutting the Model Y significantly. Simultaneously, Tesla deals with financial challenges, as the fierce competition from these rivals puts pressure on the Model Y's pricing, narrowing the gap between its cost and that of competitors.
