Evaluating Tesla Model Y: Does Performance Measure Up to Expectations?

Evaluating Tesla Model Y Performance: Does It Deliver as Promised?

Revised Tesla Model Y Undergoes Refresh: A Closer Look at the New Dual Motor Version

By Patrick Broich

Tesla is updating its Model Y with a fresh coat of paint and some hardware adjustments, introducing the revision known as Juniper, complete with a Dual Motor drive. In this review, ntv.de takes the revamped Model Y for a spin.

Initial encounters with the revised Model Y may be puzzling, as its front design bears a striking resemblance to a different brand. The continuous light bars might lead one to believe it's a newcomer from China. A quick glance at the rear, however, reveals the Tesla's familiar shape, even with the light bar still present. The large text on the back helps identify the vehicle's manufacturer.

Those accustomed to Tesla will recognize the midsized Model Y, even without the brand name, thanks to the central control unit or touchscreen maintaining its eye-catching presence. Drivers now select gear shifts on the touch-sensitive display, much like the Model S facelift. Although this tricky arrangement might not prove future-proof—what if the display malfunctions in the coming years?—emergency measures are in place. The brake pedal can still activate "D" manually if desired.

Practical Testing of the Model Y Dual Motor

After delving into the theory, it's time to see how the SUV performs in practice. With all-wheel drive and a generous battery, acceleration is impressive. However, Tesla has yet to officially disclose the battery size and drive power output, so one must rely on estimates or unofficial sources to gain complete information. The standard 0-100 km/h sprint time is listed as 4.8 seconds.

To gauge the SUV's acceleration, we'll forgo the stopwatch and rely on more subjective methods. We tested how strongly the vehicle pushes against the headrest or presses the driver into the seat when the accelerator is suddenly depressed. The result? Strongly enough to take notice. However, braking can be perceptible at speeds comparable to 200 km/h, which we found a bit disappointing. Maybe a Model Y Performance version with higher speeds will be introduced.

The top speed and power, nonetheless, should suffice for everyday use. Improvements have been made with the facelift to enhance the SUV's day-to-day driving experience. Tesla asserts that the Model Y is now significantly quieter than before, but verifying it under practical conditions is challenging without a comparative reference. Nevertheless, chassis modifications have most certainly enhanced suspension comfort, as the Model Y smoothly glides over rough roads now.

A return to traditional turn signal levers, something practical and accessible, is another positive change. Wireless smartphone charging trays are also a welcome addition, although they were available in previous models. New features include stylish ambient lighting in various colors, even if the interior design is still somewhat minimalist. The front LED strip may reflect rather distractingly in the windshield at night.

Missing 800-volt Advantage

Our criticisms of the Model Y don't stop at the annoying night-time LED reflections. The lack of 800-volt fast-charging architecture remains a concern. As competition intensifies in the near future, charging performance will become essential, and Tesla is already feeling the pressure. Though the base Model Y starts at €45,970 and offers ample power, space, and range for its size, rivals are hard at work implementing faster charging options.

For instance, the Škoda Enyaq offers a family-friendly experience at more affordable prices. Its starting price of €33,900 easily undercuts the Model Y. If we compare an all-wheel-drive Y with the longest range (586 kilometers) with the Smart #5, the latter might prove a formidable competitor. The Smart #5 costs €55,400, €1,430 more than the Tesla, but provides superior charging performance. Chinese entrants like the Xpeng G6 are another challenge, as they offer 800-volt charging systems at prices starting at €43,600.

Efficiency isn't the Model Y's only concern, as its energy consumption was criticized in a recent "Auto Bild" test. Although the value is acceptable, Tesla claims the energy consumption of the 4x4 at 15.3 kWh, although the test found a consumption of 24.9 kWh.

In conclusion, the Tesla Model Y offers a well-rounded package at a reasonable price. However, as competitors expand their offerings, Tesla's pricing advantage is starting to fade. Last year, the Model Y was the world's best-selling car, irrespective of drive type, but it is now losing ground in the sales rankings. If Tesla wants to retain its position, new, substantial innovations may be necessary—small cosmetic changes alone won't cut it. But who knows? Tesla may yet surprise us again, as it did years ago with the introduction of the Supercharger network alone.

The Model Y, even though manufactured mainly from materials not of its product's heading, showcases a lifestyle that embodies technology and innovation, as evidenced by its integration of gadgets such as touch-sensitive displays and wireless smartphone charging trays.
As Tesla continues to manufacture electric-vehicles like the Model Y, it's important to note that these vehicles are not limited to being mere modes of transportation; they also serve as a reflection of one's tech-savvy lifestyle and commitment to a sustainable future.
In the competitive world of electric-vehicle manufacturing, Tesla's Model Y competes not only in terms of technology and performance but also in terms of the lifestyle and gadget-oriented choices it offers, setting it apart from traditional vehicles and even some newcomers from China.