Tesla Model Y Premium AWD (2025) review: Was the facelift a success?

Since its introduction, the Tesla Model Y has been one of the most sought-after electric vehicles worldwide. The revised “Juniper” Facelift Among other things, it receives continuous LED light strips at the front and rear in the Cybertruck design, a completely redesigned interior with higher-quality materials, ambient lighting, and an additional 8-inch display for rear passengers. Furthermore, the names of the various variants have changed slightly. We thoroughly tested the premium variant with all-wheel drive for you. Here are our results.

The best-selling Tesla Model Y was first announced in 2017 and unveiled to the public in March 2019. Production began in January 2020 at the Fremont, California, plant, with the first deliveries in the US taking place in March 2020. Since January 2021, the model has also been rolling off the assembly line in Shanghai, and since March 2022 at the Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg, with production later expanding to Texas. The first Model Y vehicles were delivered in Europe in August 2021.Initially produced in China, the Model Y made automotive history when it overtook the Toyota Corolla as the world's best-selling car in 2023, with 1,23 million units sold.

In Europe, the Model Y saw a 17 percent decline in new registrations in 2024, with 209.214 vehicles registered compared to the previous year. It fell from first to fourth place in the overall ranking of all powertrains, but remains the continent's best-selling electric car. The picture is even more dramatic in Germany: Tesla registrations plummeted by 41 percent in 2024 to just 37.574 vehicles. In January 2025, only 979 Model Y vehicles were registered.And the once leading electric SUV slipped from first to tenth place in the German electric car rankings. The reasons for the sales decline are multifaceted, ranging from increased competition and the outdated pre-facelift model to the negative impact of controversial political statements by CEO Elon Musk. The facelifted "Juniper," launched in Europe in January 2025, is now intended to reverse the trend, with initial signs from Norway indicating a renewed increase in demand.

Picture: TechnikNews

Technical specifications Tesla Model Y Premium with all-wheel drive

Conclusion (tl;dr) Tesla Model Y Premium All-Wheel Drive: Successful Facelift

With the Juniper facelift, Tesla has addressed many criticisms of the previous generation while further enhancing its core strengths. With its WLTP range of 600 kilometers and a realistic everyday range of 450 to 500 kilometers, the Model Y demonstrates that electric mobility is no longer a compromise.proIt requires more than that. The powerful 440 hp from two electric motors ensures a sprint to 100 km/h in 4,8 seconds, with the power effortlessly available at any time. Particularly impressive, however, is the efficiency: With Real-world measured consumption: 18 to 19 kWh per 100 kilometers In everyday use, Tesla's energy consumption is significantly lower than that of many competitors. Compared to the competition, Tesla continues to achieve greater range with less battery capacity.

What distinguishes the facelift is the noticeable improvement in all areas. While previous Tesla models struggled with stiff suspension and a spartan interior, the revised Model Y demonstrates that the Californian manufacturer has learned from its mistakes. The suspension is noticeably more comfortable without sacrificing direct feedback. The interior impresses with high-quality materials and excellent workmanship. Noise insulation, thanks to double glazing and optimized materials, has also been significantly improved, making long highway journeys considerably more pleasant. For 52.990 euros What you get is a fully-fledged SUV that surpasses most competitors in terms of space, trunk volume, and technical features. The unbeatable Supercharger network and intuitive software are further advantages that significantly simplify the transition to electric mobility. Those willing to forgo all-wheel drive will find an even more efficient alternative in the rear-wheel-drive version, available for €49.990, with a WLTP range of 622 kilometers.

However, there are also weaknesses. The sentry function, which monitors the parked vehicle and activates the cameras when approaching, causes a measurable vampire drain overnightLeaving the vehicle parked for several days can result in a range loss of several percent. Furthermore, Tesla continues to rely on a somewhat distracting operating system via the central touchscreen, lacking any physical buttons and a forward-facing display or head-up display. The optional "Full Self-Driving Capability" package, costing €7.500, is unfortunately hardly worthwhile in Germany due to regulatory restrictions. And yes, CEO Elon Musk is a polarizing figure – but objectively, there's relatively little to criticize about the vehicle itself.

Strengths and weaknesses of the Tesla Model Y Facelift:

✅ Strengths:

• Excellent value for money

• Extremely powerful yet efficient engine with 440 hp and 493 Nm

• High-quality, spacious interior with plenty of room

• Supercharger charging network and ease of route planning

• Significant improvements in build quality and chassis compared to the pre-facelift model.

• Large panoramic glass roof as standard

• The mobile key enables keyless opening and starting via smartphone or Apple Watch.

• Very good consumption figures, even with heating.

• 97 percent occupant protection in the Euro NCAP crash test

❌ Weaknesses:

• Vampire drain overnight due to Sentry Mode – up to 7% capacity loss with Sentry Mode activated

• Distraction-intensive operating system without physical buttons

• No display behind the steering wheel, no head-up display

• The workmanship doesn't always reach premium level.

Picture: TechnikNews

Design and exterior of the Tesla Model Y: Many innovations

The Tesla Model Y facelift, codenamed Juniper, boasts a significantly bolder and more modern appearance. The front end, with its continuous LED light strip, looks more aggressive and futuristic – Tesla aficionados will recognize this as a sign of things to come. Bonds at the CybertruckThe redesigned hood is flatter, and the transition to the bumper is more precisely sculpted. The headlights are narrower, giving the front end a more dynamic look. With daytime running lights, the entire light bar illuminates, creating a distinctive and instantly recognizable appearance. At 4,79 meters long, the Model Y has grown by four centimeters, while its width has increased by six centimeters to 1,92 meters (2,13 meters including side mirrors). The height remains unchanged at 1,62 meters.

The paint quality meets Tesla standards and leaves nothing to be desired. In addition to the classic colors black, white, silver, blue, and gray, Tesla also offers the new exclusive color Ultra Red, which gives the facelift a striking and sporty touch. Our test vehicle in Quicksilver combined with a black leatherette interior also presents a very attractive combination. Another practical new feature can be found in the center of the front. An additional, ninth camera was integrated.This front camera covers the blind spot directly in front of the vehicle. It's not only heated but also has its own spray nozzle. The lens can be cleaned at the touch of a button on the touchscreen – handy for mud, snow, or insects.

In profile, the changes are subtle – new aerodynamically optimized rims and refined details define the look. The drag coefficient has been reduced from 0,23 to an impressive 0,22, putting the Model Y on par with the BYD Seal, Porsche Taycan and Skoda Enyaq coupe The rear end has been completely redesigned and now appears more substantial and muscular. A continuous LED light strip connects the taillights, providing indirect lighting – an elegant effect, especially in the dark. The new spoiler lip and larger diffuser not only convey sporty ambitions but also contribute to improved aerodynamics. The redesigned rear end more clearly distinguishes the Model Y from its competitors. Model 3 less than before.

The 19-inch Crossflow wheels are standard and offer a good balance between comfort and range. Those who prefer a sportier look can upgrade to 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels – however, this comes at the expense of range and ride comfort. The new Gigacasting technologyThe process of manufacturing large vehicle components from a single piece results in fewer welds and a more stable body. This leads to a quieter driving experience, as fewer vibrations are transmitted to the interior. However, the gaps between the body panels still vary considerably, especially at the rear – there is still room for improvement here.

Space: Very spacious

With a length of 4,79 meters, a width of 1,92 meters (excluding mirrors), and a height of 1,62 meters, the Model Y is in typical mid-size SUV dimensions. The vehicle is therefore four centimeters longer and six centimeters wider than its predecessor. This increase in size primarily benefits the interior and trunk space. The 2,89-meter wheelbase provides generous legroom and contributes to a smooth ride on the highway. Despite the sloping roofline, front headroom is ample. Even tall drivers over 1,90 meters will find sufficient space. This is also due to the fact that the floor is not unnecessarily raised thanks to the flat battery pack in the underbody.

The rear passengers proThe long wheelbase provides ample legroom, even behind tall front passengers. Three adults can sit in the back, although the middle passenger will have to contend with a slightly raised center tunnel and limited shoulder room. The stock is ideal for two people., who then travel in princely style. Despite the sloping roof, rear headroom is good – a credit to the intelligent roof design and the recessed seat recesses.

Boot space: Impressively spacious

The trunk is a real highlight of the Model Y. 822 liters basic volume With the rear seats upright, its cargo space is significantly above the class average. The loading sill is low, and the trunk opening is large and rectangular – ideal for crates of drinks, moving boxes, or luggage. The floor is flat, and beneath it lies an additional 105-liter storage compartment, which can be used, for example, for the charging cable and small items. With the rear seats folded down, the volume expands to an impressive 2.138 liters. That's more than most competitors and is sufficient for bicycles, furniture, or the contents of entire car trunks. The loading area is then almost completely flat and offers a length of approximately 1,80 meters – enough for almost any transport task. The maximum payload is around 450 kilograms, which is sufficient for most everyday scenarios.

The frunk is particularly practical. It's hidden under the front hood. an additional storage space of 116 litersThis is designed as a large plastic tub with a drain and can be proEasy to wash. Ideal for wet swimwear, dirty hiking boots, motorcycle helmets, or food items you want to keep separate from the rest of your load. The frunk lid opens like a normal car hood and must be closed manually – not quite as convenient as some competitors, but perfectly adequate.

Driver assistance systems in the Tesla Model Y: Cameras are the only way into the future

The Tesla Model Y relies entirely on camera-based driver assistance systems and has completely dispensed with radar and ultrasonic sensors since 2022. Tesla calls these “Tesla Vision” technology – a purely visual system that uses eight cameras and is analyzed by neural networks. These cameras capture a 360-degree view and detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, traffic signs, lane markings, and obstacles. The ninth camera at the front was added with the Juniper facelift and covers the blind spot directly in front of the vehicle. Tesla has also brought back the turn signal stalk after much criticism of the steering wheel-mounted turn signal buttons.

The only problem is the traffic sign recognition. In our test, the automatic adoption of the applicable speed limit was sometimes problematic. In some cases, Digital speed display signs misread or the speed limit of a highway exit was mistakenly applied to the onward highway – leading to heavy braking. However, this is not a problem specific to Tesla, but currently affects almost all manufacturers.

Autopilot: Everything's great, but FSD isn't worth it yet.

Standard equipment includes the "Basic Autopilot"The system comprises two core functions: adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control not only maintains the selected speed but also automatically adjusts it to traffic conditions. The system detects vehicles ahead and maintains an adjustable safety distance. This distance can be set in seven increments – from sporty and close to relaxed and defensive. In practice, the cruise control works reliably and reacts smoothly to changes in the speed of the vehicle in front. Lane keeping assist actively keeps the vehicle in its lane and gently corrects if it unintentionally drifts across the lane markings. The system functions reliably on highways and well-marked country roads. The steering interventions are subtle and not too intrusive, so you retain the feeling of driving yourself. Important: Autopilot is a Level 2 driver assistance system and requires constant attention. The vehicle monitors your hands on the steering wheel and regularly prompts you to confirm that you are keeping your eyes on the road.

For an additional charge of 3.800 euros, the "Enhanced Autopilot" This upgrade can be booked. It expands the functionality to include automatic lane changes, Navigate on Autopilot for highways, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon. Automatic lane changes work after the turn signal is activated. The vehicle automatically checks whether the adjacent lane is clear and executes the lane change smoothly. Navigate on Autopilot plans the optimal route on highways, including lane changes, interchanges, and exits. The system suggests lane changes and executes them after confirmation.

The "Full Self-Driving" (FSD) The package costs an additional €7.500 and promises further features. However, FSD is severely limited in Europe, as the legal framework does not yet permit autonomous driving. It includes a traffic light and stop sign assistant that recognizes traffic lights and stop signs and automatically brings the vehicle to a halt. Furthermore, customers receive priority access to future FSD features – although it is unclear when and which features will be introduced. Currently, FSD is hardly worthwhile in Europe, as most features are only available in the USA.

Safety in the Tesla Model Y: Five-star rating

In the Euro NCAP crash test, the previous generation Model Y achieved the Maximum rating of five starsIn terms of occupant protection, it achieved 97 percent for adults and 87 percent for children. Pedestrian protection scored 82 percent, and the driver assistance systems received 98 percent – ​​an excellent result. The new Juniper facelift has not yet been tested but is expected to perform similarly well. Eight airbags are standard: driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, and a driver's knee airbag. Side impact protection in the doors and reinforced B-pillars are also included.

The electronic assistants are extensive and work discreetly in the background. The electronic stability programproThe electronic stability program (ESP) intervenes subtly and precisely. Traction control prevents wheel spin. Brake assist automatically increases pedal pressure during emergency braking. Automatic emergency braking intervenes in critical situations and can prevent collisions or reduce their severity. Sentry Mode is also a unique feature of Tesla.When parked, the cameras monitor the surroundings and record people as they approach. In case of vibrations or attempted break-ins, the system triggers an alarm and saves the video recordings to a USB drive. This significantly increases security in public parking lots. However, Sentry Mode causes a vampire drain of approximately three to five percent. pro Day when the cameras and computers are constantly active.

Overall, the Tesla Model Y offers a very high level of securityThe camera-based systems function reliably in everyday use, and the driver assistance systems make long journeys more relaxed. Basic Autopilot is standard equipment and already offers a high level of comfort. Those who want more can add Enhanced Autopilot – Full Self-Driving (FSD) is not currently worthwhile in Europe. Crash safety is excellent, and the comprehensive active safety systems contribute to accident prevention.

Interior of the Tesla Model Y: Many upgrades

The interior of the Tesla Model Y has taken a giant leap forward with the Juniper facelift and finally meets even higher premium standards. Tesla has taken the criticism of the predecessor's sterile and cheap-looking interior seriously and now delivers an interior that is not only functional but also emotionally appealing. The first thing you notice when getting in is the Significantly higher quality material appearanceFaux leather, which now looks less artificial, covers the door panels, dashboard, and seats. It has a pleasant feel, and the workmanship makes a solid impression. The new textile inlays, which extend across the dashboard, are particularly successful, creating a more inviting atmosphere. These fabric elements break up the dominance of smooth surfaces and give the interior more character.

The dashboard has a minimalist design and is free of buttons. A large 15,4-inch touchscreen, responsible for virtually all functions, sits in the center. Air vents, controlled via the touchscreen, are located to the left and right. The vents themselves have no mechanical adjustments – everything is digital. Furthermore, the Panoramic glass roof Plenty of light enters the cabin, visually opening up the interior. It extends from the windshield far to the rear, giving even rear passengers an unobstructed view of the sky. The glass is heavily tinted and coated with a UV-reflective layer, preventing it from getting too hot even in the height of summer. However, there is no fabric sunshade or opening mechanism. The glass roof is fixed and cannot be opened. On hot summer days, this can lead to heat buildup despite the tint.

Facelift updates: Ambient lighting, rear display and steering wheel

In the facelifted model, gear selection is done via swipe gestures on the touchscreen; there's no physical lever. While this might sound unusual at first, in practice it's surprisingly quick and intuitive. Optionally, the system can even suggest the desired gear from Park mode, depending on the available space. continuous ambient light strip Another new feature is the ambient lighting. It extends across the entire dashboard and continues into the door panels. The color can be adjusted via the display to various shades, creating a different atmosphere depending on your mood. Especially in the evenings and at night, the ambient lighting creates a sophisticated and relaxing ambiance. The brightness can be dimmed continuously, so it doesn't cause glare.

The steering wheel has also been redesigned. It fits comfortably in the hand and is covered in soft synthetic leather. Its shape is sporty, with a flattened top and bottom. The steering wheel features two scroll wheels and several buttons for the most important functions. The left scroll wheel controls the volume, while the right one controls driving functions such as autopilot and voice control. Operation is intuitive and can be done without looking. Steering wheel heating is standard. And it pleasantly warms your hands in winter. Overall, Tesla has taken an impressive step forward with the Juniper facelift. The interior now feels high-quality, well-designed, and inviting. The workmanship is solid, the materials are appealing, and the attention to detail is evident. While there is still room for improvement—for example, with the physical buttons or a head-up display—the overall package could now win over even discerning buyers.

Comfort: Excellent features in the premium version

The seats have been completely redesigned and now offer significantly more comfort than their predecessor. Seat height, backrest angle, seat depth, and lumbar support are all electrically adjustable. The adjustments are precise and allow for a personalized seating position. The memory function saves the settings for up to three drivers.proThe system automatically adjusts the seat and steering wheel as soon as you switch profiles. This is especially useful when several people share a vehicle. Heated seats for all five seats It's included as standard equipment. The heater works quickly and effectively and has three adjustable settings. You'll feel the warmth after just a few minutes. Seat ventilation for the front seats is available as an option, providing additional comfort in summer. The ventilation system operates quietly and effectively, preventing unpleasant sweating on long journeys.

The audible warning when exceeding the speed limit (mandatory for all new vehicles in the EU since July 2024) can be quickly deactivated by tapping the speed limit symbol on the display – a pragmatic and practical solution. Noise insulation has also been significantly improved with the Juniper facelift. Acoustic glazing around the vehicle, additional sound-absorbing mats, and optimized seals ensure a quieter driving experience. The interior is pleasantly quiet at city speeds. At motorway speeds above 120 km/h, wind and road noise are audible, but at an acceptable level. German premium manufacturers They are a touch quieter here, but the gap has become significantly smaller.

For the rear passengers there is an additional 8-inch touchscreenIntroduced with the Juniper facelift, it's integrated into the center console and allows control of the climate, seat heating, games, and other media. Rear passengers can independently adjust their own temperature or play music and videos – perfect for families with children.

Tesla Model Y infotainment: Still leading the way

The central one 15,4 inch touch screen The touchscreen is the heart of the system. The high-resolution display (2.200 x 1.300 pixels) shows all relevant driving information, navigation maps, music, vehicle settings, and much more. The display is crystal clear, and operation is as intuitive as a modern tablet. The menu structure is logical – anyone who can use a smartphone will find it easy to navigate. The screen remains easily readable even in direct sunlight. Operation is exclusively via this touchscreen. There is no traditional instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. All information, such as speed, range, navigation, and driver assistance systems, is displayed on the central screen. This initially requires some adjustment, as you have to take your eyes off the road further. However, after a short familiarization period, the system works intuitively, and the clear layout makes it easy to grasp the desired information at a glance.

The most important quick access controls are located at the bottom of the central display: climate control, seat heating, vehicle settings, and media. These are always visible and accessible with a single tap. Above this is the main area, which displays different content depending on the situation, such as navigation, media, dashcam footage, or energy consumption. Streaming services such as Spotify, Netflix, YouTube and Twitch are also integrated.When the vehicle is stationary, you can watch videos or play games. The onboard computer's processing power is impressive – even demanding games run smoothly. There's a drawing mode and various entertainment options for children.

The The navigation system is one of the best on the market.It automatically plans charging stops along the route, taking into account the current charge level, consumption, and the availability of Superchargers. Real-time traffic information is incorporated, and alternative routes are suggested. The visualization is clear and concise. However, the graphical representation of the autopilot has drawn criticism: many testers find the colorful road surface pulsating beneath the car more distracting than helpful. A simpler display would be preferable. Otherwise, the amount of information on the display is well-balanced, neither too cluttered nor too minimalist.

Connectivity: A rolling computer with wheels

The Tesla Model Y is more than a vehicle – it's a rolling computer on wheels. Its connectivity and digital integration reach a level unparalleled in the automotive industry. Tesla recognized early on that the future of the automobile lies in software, updates, and connectivity, and the Model Y impressively demonstrates how far this vision has already come. At the heart of this connectivity is the Tesla AppIt's available for iOS and Android and functions as a remote control for the vehicle. Even before you arrive at the car, you can control virtually every function. The air conditioning can be activated remotely, so the vehicle is pre-cooled in summer or pre-heated in winter. The seat and steering wheel heating can also be switched on remotely. On cold winter days, you can get into a comfortably warm car without wasting energy scraping ice.

The The standard method is using a mobile phone key. For locking and unlocking. Your smartphone in your pocket is all it takes to unlock the vehicle as soon as you approach. No need to press anything, no activation required – the car recognizes the paired smartphone via Bluetooth and unlocks automatically. When you move away, the vehicle locks itself again. This solution works so reliably that you can confidently leave your physical key at home. If your smartphone battery is dead or you forget your phone, the key cards serve as a backup. These NFC cards are barely larger than a credit card and can be carried in your wallet. To unlock, simply hold the card against the B-pillar; to start the car, place it on the center console. Additionally, you can set a password via the app, allowing you to start the vehicle even without a key – perfect if you want to share the car with friends or family.

The Model Y features LTE connectivity. The internet connection is free for the first eight years and enables live traffic data, satellite imagery for navigation, music streaming via Spotify and Tidal, video streaming via YouTube and Netflix, and web browsing. After the free period, connectivity can be extended for €9,99 per month. Alternatively, a smartphone hotspot can be used. Over-the-air updates are at the heart of Tesla's software philosophy.New features, improvements, and bug fixes are regularly rolled out via software updates – often several times a year. The vehicle automatically downloads and installs these updates, usually overnight while parked. The next morning, you have an improved car with new features. These updates include everything from new games and enhanced Autopilot functions to performance upgrades and new comfort features. According to Bloomberg, Tesla is even working on... Apple Car Play to integrate into its models.

Sound: Premium audio system

The sound system is a highlight. Tesla installs a Premium audio system with 13 speakersThe car features a subwoofer and an amplifier. Speakers are strategically distributed throughout the interior: in the doors, dashboard, parcel shelf, and even the front seat headrests. The subwoofer is located in the trunk and delivers powerful bass. Sound settings can be adjusted via the touchscreen. Equalizer settings allow for individual sound customization. Users can choose between different sound modes.proSelect preset files or make manual adjustments. The balance and fader functions allow you to focus the sound on specific areas of the vehicle.

The sound quality is excellent. The system offers clear, detailed sound with good spatiality. The highs are precise without sounding harsh, the mids are transparent, and the bass is punchy without being overpowering. The tuning is balanced and suitable for all music genres. Even at high volumes, the sound remains clean and distortion-free. The amplifier delivers ample power and effortlessly fills the interior with sound. The system is loud enough to be clearly audible even at higher speeds on the highway. The vehicle's sound insulation contributes to good acoustics. and reduces disturbing external noise.

Tesla Model Y drive system: Power and efficiency combined

The Tesla Model Y Premium Long Range with all-wheel drive utilizes a dual-motor drive system that combines the advantages of two different electric motor technologies. A permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) with reluctance powers the rear axle, while an asynchronous motor (ASM) handles the front axle. This combination is no accident, but rather the result of years of optimization by Tesla engineers. System output is 440 hp (324 kW)The maximum torque is 493 Newton meters. These figures are available from the very first moment – ​​a typical characteristic of electric drives. The Model Y accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,8 seconds. That sounds faster than some competitors, but in everyday driving, the Model Y feels significantly quicker than the numbers suggest. The reason is its instantaneous response without any delay.

Pressing the accelerator pedal delivers a tremendous surge of power that presses you into your seat. The acceleration is perfectly linear, without any interruptions in gear changes or power loss. From a standstill to its top speed of 201 km/h, the Model Y pulls powerfully. The SUV completes intermediate sprints from 80 to 120 km/h in just a few seconds – perfect for overtaking maneuvers on country roads and highways. The battery is probably a Lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt battery pack with 82 kWh usable capacity (Gross capacity presumably around 85 kWh). Tesla itself remains silent about the exact battery technology, but still uses 2170-format cells from various suppliers. The battery is integrated into the vehicle floor, which ensures a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution. The vehicle's curb weight is approximately 2.072 kg – a moderate figure for an electric SUV of this size.

Recuperation is set to default. maximum one-pedal riding The system is set up so that when you take your foot off the accelerator pedal, the Model Y decelerates noticeably. The electric motors then act as generators, feeding the kinetic energy back into the battery. This recuperation is so strong that you hardly need the brake pedal in city traffic and on country roads. With anticipatory driving, you can recover a significant amount of energy. The strength of the recuperation can be adjusted in steps via the display. Those who prefer a smoother deceleration will need to adjust their driving style or carefully modulate the accelerator pedal. However, most drivers quickly get used to one-pedal driving and wouldn't want to go back.

Driving dynamics and handling: Significant improvement in the chassis

Here, the Tesla Model Y reveals perhaps its biggest surprise: it drives significantly better than one would expect from an SUV weighing nearly two tons. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery being mounted in the floor, is noticeable in every corner. The Model Y lies firmly on the roadBody roll is minimal. Even when cornering at speed, the body remains remarkably neutral. The steering is precise and provides ample feedback. The power steering adjusts to the speed – light at low speeds for easy maneuvering, firmer at higher speeds for greater stability.

The chassis has been updated with the facelift. made a significant leap forwardThe frequency-selective dampers now operate noticeably more smoothly and comfortably than in the predecessor. On smooth highways, the Model Y glides along effortlessly, while on bumpy country roads, irregularities are effectively filtered out. The suspension tuning remains sporty and firm, but is no longer quite as comfortable.proThe ride is as firm as in previous versions. Long undulations are smoothed out effortlessly; only short, sharp impacts reveal that the dampers still have room for improvement. The braking system is also powerful and easily modulated. Deceleration is linear, and the pressure point is clearly defined. Thanks to regenerative braking, the mechanical brakes need to be used less frequently anyway, minimizing wear. Many Tesla drivers report that they haven't had to replace the brake pads even after years of use.

At higher speeds on the motorway, the Model Y shows its best side. It is stable and tracks well, and crosswinds are hardly noticeable. The sound insulation is very good.Wind noise is well insulated, and road noise remains moderate. Even at 160 km/h, you can still have a relaxed conversation. What the Model Y lacks is rear-axle steering. With a turning circle of 12,1 meters, maneuvering in tight parking garages or city centers is more difficult than with its competitors. The VW ID.4, for example, manages with 10,2 meters, and the Kia EV6 with 11,6 meters.

Tesla Model Y consumption and range: Very good values

This is where the Tesla Model Y demonstrates one of its greatest strengths: efficiency. With a WLTP range of 600 kilometers and a WLTP consumption of 15,3 kWh. pro The all-wheel-drive model sets standards in its class with a range of 100 kilometers. In practice, with mixed driving conditions including highways, country roads, and city streets, we achieved a range of... Average consumption of 17,0 to 18,0 kWh Measured per 100 kilometers. On the motorway at a constant 120 km/h, consumption is around 19 to 20 kWh/100 km – an excellent figure for an SUV weighing almost two tons. At the recommended speed of 130 km/h, consumption rises to around 21 to 22 kWh/100 km, and at 150 km/h to about 27 kWh/100 km. Those who drive more leisurely and primarily on country roads and in city traffic will achieve even lower figures. prowithout problems, using 15 to 16 kWh/100 km.

In practice, the so-called Vampire Drain One factor is battery drain in standby mode. In particular, the Sentry Mode, which monitors the parked vehicle, causes a loss of several percentage points of range overnight. If you leave your car parked for an extended period, you should deactivate Sentry Mode. In our test, with Sentry Mode activated, the vehicle lost approximately 3 to 5, sometimes even 7 percent of its battery capacity overnight. With an 83 kWh battery, this equates to roughly 2,5 to 4 kWh or 20 to 30 kilometers of range.

Range of the Tesla Model Y: Long distances are no problem

Tesla states a WLTP range of 600 kilometers for the Model Y. However, the realistic everyday range is closer to 450 kilometers under mixed driving conditions. On purely highway drives at higher speeds, the range drops to approximately 320 to 350 kilometers. In city traffic with anticipatory driving and optimal regenerative braking, 500 kilometers and more are certainly achievable. The Model Y performs exceptionally well in comparison to its competitors. The Kia EV6 AWD with a 77,4 kWh battery achieves a WLTP range of 546 kilometers with similar performance. Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD with a 77,4 kWh battery for 505 kilometers. The VW ID.4 GTX With its 77 kWh battery, it achieves a range of 497 kilometers. The Model Y thus clearly leads its class.

As expected, the range decreases in winter. At temperatures around freezing and with the heating activated, you should expect an increase in consumption of 20 to 30 percent. standard heat pump This helps to limit the increase in fuel consumption. However, on winter highway drives, one should realistically only expect a range of about 300 kilometers.

Charging with the Tesla Model Y: With 250 kW peak charging power, it's in the middle of the pack.

Charging is one of the areas where Tesla still performs well – not because of its technical specifications, but thanks to the infrastructure. The Model Y charges at a maximum of 250 kW DC power at fast-charging stations. This isn't the absolute top speed – competitors with 800-volt technology like the Kia EV6 or Hyundai Ioniq 5 achieve up to 350 kW. XPeng G6 Even up to 451 kW. The decisive advantage lies in the Supercharger network. With over 1.100 locations in Europe and more than 12.000 charging points, it is the densest and most reliable fast-charging network. The navigation system automatically plans charging stops, displays available charging spots in real time, and even reserves a spot at newer stations. The payment system is fully automatic – simply plug in, and you're done. No apps, no RFID cards, no fiddling with different payment methods.

The Model Y charges at a Tesla Supercharger under optimal conditions. from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 27 to 30 minutesThe charging curve is well-optimized and maintains high power output for a relatively long time. Charging from 10 to 50 percent takes only about 15 minutes – ideal for a quick coffee break on long journeys. The last 20 percent to 100 percent takes significantly longer, as the charging power is greatly reduced to protect the battery. The battery preconditioning works excellently. When navigating to a Supercharger, the battery is automatically brought up to its optimal charging temperature. This noticeably reduces charging time and simultaneously protects the battery. This feature is particularly valuable in winter.

AC charging with alternating current is standard at 11 kW. A wallbox With this charging capacity, a completely empty battery can be fully charged in approximately 7 to 8 hours – ideal for overnight charging at home. A full charge using a standard 2,3 kW household outlet would take over 35 hours – this is only practical as a last resort. Anyone who wants to charge regularly at home should invest in a wallbox. One minor drawback: the charging port is located at the rear left – this can be inconvenient at some charging stations with short cables. However, most Superchargers are designed with sufficiently long cables.

Price and warranty of the Tesla Model Y: You can't argue with that.

The Tesla Model Y Maximum Range with All-Wheel Drive It currently costs 52.990 euros.For this price, you get a fully equipped vehicle with extensive standard features: all-wheel drive, panoramic glass roof, premium audio system, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, power tailgate, LED lighting all around, 19-inch wheels, double acoustic glazing, heat pump, and the complete Autopilot basic package. Those wanting 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 3,5 seconds and 21-inch wheels will have to pay €61.900 for the Performance version.

The cheaper The premium rear-wheel drive variant starts at 49.990 euros. And with a WLTP range of 622 kilometers, it offers even more range, but it forgoes the second engine and therefore all-wheel drive and the sportier acceleration. This version should be perfectly adequate for most buyers. Recently, a much stripped-down version has also become available. Standard version of the Model Y for €39.990. However, here you only get 534 kilometers of WLTP range and significantly fewer features.

Optional extras are limited: a white leatherette interior costs an additional €1.200, while black is standard. Metallic paint finishes range from €1.000 to €2.000, and the exclusive Ultra Red color costs €3.000. 20-inch wheels cost €2.500, and a tow bar is €1.350. The Enhanced Autopilot package is €3.800, and the Full Self-Driving package is €7.500.

The warranty conditions These are standard industry terms: a two-year new car warranty with unlimited mileage, and an eight-year or 192.000-kilometer battery warranty guaranteeing at least 70 percent remaining capacity. The paint warranty is three years, and the anti-corrosion warranty is twelve years. Premium connectivity is included for the first eight years. (All prices in this article are as of November 2025 and include 19% VAT.)

Picture: Tesla