Performance & drive
What it’s like to drive, and how quiet it is
Engine, 0-60mph and gearbox
The Tesla Model Y isn’t quite as rapid as the equivalent Model 3 (blame the extra weight for that). Mind you, at our private test track we timed a Model Y Long Range rocketing from 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds, and the Performance model has a supercar-rivalling official time of 3.5 seconds. That’s way faster than the Jaguar I-Pace let alone the BMW iX3.
The Long Range can officially do 315 miles on a charge while the Performance promises 298 miles. You won’t get that far in the real world, but 250 miles should be achievable if you take it easy and the weather is mild.
Handling
It should come as no surprise that the taller and heavier Model Y isn’t as good to drive as the Model 3, but it’s a shame Tesla hasn’t spent more time tuning the car accordingly – especially given how rapid it is.
The incredibly quick steering that works so well on the Model 3 has been carried over, but with the slightly more lethargic responses of an SUV, it makes the Model Y feel a bit nervous.
When you get past that and into a corner, you’ll find plenty of grip and not too much body lean, but the iX3, I-Pace and EV6 feel better balanced, inspire more confidence and are ultimately more enjoyable on twisty roads.
