Tesla Model Y Review

Practicality and Boot Space

The Model Y isn't as interesting to look at as rivals like the Volvo XC40 or Ford Mustang Mach-E, but it’s actually quite sleek and small looking for a compact SUV. With all seats down there’s a very useful 1,869 litres on offer, but it’s biggest boon is the tailgate. While the Model 3 has an awkward, tight opening, the Model’s Y wide hatchback-style tailgate will prove more useful if you intend on carrying things. 

But just like the Model 3, there’s plenty of space for the middle row of passengers and thanks to the Model Y’s taller shape there’s more headroom. And don’t forget the front boot – or ‘frunk’ in Tesla speak. There's no seven seat option yet in the UK, and watch your weight - Tesla can be a bit sneaky about the total amount of people and luggage you can carry, and direct you to look at the car's chassis plate to check. It could be you go over the maximum limit with the family and some luggage on board.

Technology

The Model Y closely follows the path already forged by the Model 3, so the tech on offer will delight. The Model Y comes with self-driving capability for £6,800 allowing you to relax on the motorway while the Model Y drives itself. It’ll also park itself automatically and recognise traffic lights and stop signs. 

And, just like every other Tesla, the Model Y will constantly upgrade itself with ‘over-the-air’ updates. So, while plugged in one night, you may come out to your car in the morning to discover it has a new game to play on the touchscreen or has an increased range. Oh, and you open the car with your smartphone – there’s no physical key – but if it’s run out of battery, you get a credit card-sized key as well, just in case.

Safety 

Independent crash testers EuroNCAP haven't tested the Model Y yet. EuroNCAP sets the standard by which all cars are measured, but it did crash test a Model 3 in 2019. It scored a full five stars with a 96% rating for occupant safety and a whopping 94% for safety assist. It’s likely the Model Y will score similarly highly, especially in the safety assist category, as it features the same kit as the Model 3. So, that means every Y will get emergency braking, collision warning and blind spot monitoring as standard, and if you plump for the optional self-driving pack the car can even drive itself. Whether you consider that to be safer or not is entirely up to you.