Tesla has replaced the entry-level Model Y with a new Long Range Rear Wheel Drive variant, offering a single motor with the big battery for the first time. This combination costs £46,990 and offers 373 mile range – that’s £2,000 more than the previous version but the range figure is boosted by 90 miles. The twin motor AWD is £52,990 and has a range of 331 miles. 

The new model has a power output of 342 bhp, giving a 0-60mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds and an unusually high top speed of 135 mph. More impressive are the efficiency figures, which the official tests say will top 4 miles/kWh – better than many superminis. A heat-pump is standard and the Tesla can tow up to 1,600kg. 

To get the maximum range of 373 miles, buyers will need to stick to the standard 19-inch ‘Dark Gemini’ wheels. Opting for the pricier 20-inch ‘Induction’ alloys lops 22 miles from the total due to the extra drag. The maximum charge rate is 250 kW at Tesla’s Supercharging network.  

The new model is made in Tesla’s Berlin-Brandenburg Gigafactory, as compared to previous Model Ys for the UK which have been made in China.

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