2023 Tesla Model Y

Tesla’s EVs balance range, performance, and price in ways that older, established manufacturers can rarely beat. Models range from affordable sedans up to an SUVs and a pickup truck that can be optioned to cost over $100,000. One major advantage that Teslas have over other EVs is the company’s Supercharger network of charging stations. Unlike most public EV chargers, which can require brand-specific apps and accounts, in a Tesla, charging is comparatively seamless. Its software updates can provide meaningful upgrades. After a poor result in our braking test, an update reduced our Model 3’s 60-to-0 braking distance from 152 feet to 133 feet. Brand-wide issues include unintuitive controls that rely on touchscreens, average or below-average reliability, and build quality that is below what Consumer Reports finds in similarly priced EVs. Those factors can make purchasing a used Tesla a gamble.

The Model Y is an electric SUV based on the Model 3. It's quick, agile and doesn't consume a drop of gas. It also has the same very distracting control layout and stiff ride. The AWD Long Range has an EPA estimated 326 miles of range. Charging time from near empty is 10 hours on 240 volt, though much quicker on a Tesla Wall Charger. The Model Y is taller and roomier than the Model 3. As such, the rear seat room is much better and the hatch provides more versatility. It's a five-seater, but a seven-seat option is available. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are standard. Note that the Tesla doesn't have a proper blind spot warning other than a display on the center screen of surrounding cars.