TG's best hassle-free EV: the Tesla Model Y

What is it?

Prepare the internet servers for the incoming influx of Elon followers, it’s the Tesla Model Y. The Model Y is Tesla’s fourth four-door and shares its underpinnings with the smaller Model 3.

Rather than being a svelte saloon though, the Model Y is a properly practical crossover. Sadly that does mean it looks a little blobby, doesn’t it? Like a Model 3 that's had a particularly puffy reaction to a bee sting.

Inside you get the classic Tesla minimalism, with an ultra-responsive 15-inch touchscreen that houses almost every function and also allows you to play video games or watch Netflix while charging.

Give me some details about the Tesla Model Y.

The Model Y has been available in the US since March 2020, but deliveries on our shores only started taking place at the end of February this year. It’s been a long wait and a whole host of very competent rivals have appeared during that time, but the Tesla’s stats still stack-up well.

Musk may like to play around with pricing as often as he Tweets, but at the time of writing you can get into a base-spec Long Range Dual Motor for £54,990 in Britain. That gets you all-wheel drive and an impressive 331 miles of range on a single charge. If it’s 0-60mph times you’re chasing though, you’ll want the £64,990 Model Y Performance. That manages the aforementioned sprint in just 3.5 seconds.

Why should I care about the Tesla Model Y?

Tesla has been in the EV game longer than most and it uses that wealth of experience to good effect. The firm makes remarkably efficient electric powertrains and the Model Y’s is no different.

With over 300 miles of range no matter whether you go for the Long Range trim or Performance, this is a family crossover that could easily be the only car in your garage. There’s a huge amount of storage space thanks to the giant 854-litre boot and 117-litre front trunk, and there’s still plenty of space to seat five adults. We’re promised seven-seat versions will be along soon too.

Oh, and it’s probably worth pointing out that there’s no yoke steering wheel like on the Model S Plaid. Phew.

Why did you give the Tesla Model Y an award?

The Model Y won our ‘best hassle-free EV’ award because of how easily it could slot into your life. We’ve already waxed lyrical about the range and practicality, and let’s not forget there’s also the small matter of Tesla’s fantastic (and plentiful) Supercharger network.

Yes it’s expensive to buy up front and lease deals kick off at £700+ per month, but the Model Y holds its own in the now-crowded crossover market.