If you haven’t noticed, Tesla doesn’t behave as a traditional carmaker. Consequently, any attempt to discuss the 2022 Tesla Model Y with a degree of certainty is an uphill slog.
This is compounded by Tesla’s capability to update its vehicles’ software remotely. In other words, Tesla can make changes to the Model Y on the run at any time.
All of that is to say; we don’t expect Tesla to make any sweeping updates for 2022 to this model it launched in 2020.
Based largely on the Model 3, Model Y is the smaller of two SUVs in Tesla’s arsenal.
It does offer an optional ($3,000) third-row seat, but it’s not habitable for anyone tall enough to ride the roller coaster at your local amusement park.
We like the Model Y for its quiet operation, over-the-air updates, scalded-cat acceleration, and a wide array of driver aids.
It competes with the Chevy Bolt EUV, Audi e-tron, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Tesla separates the Model Y into two trim levels: Long Range and Performance.
As you might have already guessed, the more affordable Long Range grade emphasizes range while the costlier Performance grade concentrates on speed. Both are all-wheel drive (AWD).
Both grades provide smartphone access eliminating the need for keys or fobs.
Also, across the Model Y lineup, the Tesla Mobile App puts you in contact with your Tesla for remote unlock, remote HVAC engagement, location tracking, and more.
Propulsion and Mileage
Two motors (one on each axle) and a battery pack provide the thrust in both grades.
This arrangement squeezes out up to 330 miles of range for the Long Range and up to 303 miles in the Performance trim.
Although the Long Range isn’t about speed, it sprints from zero to 60 miles per hour in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 135 mph.
Making the same run to 60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds, the Performance grade has a top speed of 155 mph.
The government uses a different formula to estimate mileage for vehicles capable of operating on electric-only propulsion. It’s called Miles Per Gallon equivalent (MPGe).
Using this formula, the Long Range delivers a government-estimated 131 MPGe in the city, 117 MPGe on the highway, and 125 MPGe in combined driving.
The Performance grade has less impressive numbers of 115 MPGe city, 106 MPGe highway, and 111 MPGe combined.
2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range (starting at $64,990)
We believe the Long Range is the better deal of the two Model Y versions for several reasons.
First, it’s more affordable by $3,000. Second, it has 27 miles of additional range. Third, it provides a more comfy ride.
The standard content includes eight airbags, 19-inch wheels, an all-glass roof, a power liftgate, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, and automatic dual-zone climate control.
Also included are a navigation system with voice recognition, 8-way power front seats, reclining second-row seat, heated seats front and rear, and LED headlights.
The infotainment system features are a 15-inch touchscreen, a 15-speaker audio system, HD radio, five USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Noticeably absent from the Model Y are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Autopilot, a fairly comprehensive suite of driver aids, is standard on every Model Y. It includes forward-collision warning, forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
High-beam assist and adaptive cruise control are also standard.
Pearl White paint is the only no-cost color. Therefore, any other available colors will add another $1,000-$2,000 to the bottom line.
You can add Tesla’s semi-autonomous enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving Capability in Tesla speak ($12,000) driver-assistance package to either trim level.
It helps the driver steer, accelerate and brake the car under certain conditions. Moreover, it allows the car to change lanes and navigate itself, as well.
Adding the $1,200 destination fee to the Long Range base price equals $66,190. With no money down, financing for 60 months at 3% interest works out to about $1,189 per month. See 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range models for sale
2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range includes:
- Up to 330 miles of range – On a full charge, the electric propulsion system can go up to 330 miles. The top speed is 135 mph.
- 15-in. touchscreen – Virtually every system operational control is through this huge color touchscreen.
- Over-the-air updates – Updating the software is accomplished remotely. There is no need to go somewhere to add the latest software.
2022 Tesla Model Y Performance (starting at $67,990)
Most of the $5,000 price difference from the Long Range goes into the extra performance. However, there is some added content, too.
It includes 21-in wheels with high-performance tires, a lowered suspension, a spoiler, and upgraded brakes.
Adding the $1,200 destination fee to the Performance base price brings the total to $69,190. Financing with no money down for 60 months at 3% interest costs about $1,243 per month. See 2022 Tesla Model Y Performance models for sale
2022 Tesla Model Y Performance includes:
- Up to 303 miles of range – On a full charge, the electric propulsion system can go up to 303 miles. The top speed is 155 mph.
- 21-in. wheels – Significantly larger than the standard wheels on the Long Range, these wheels are wrapped in high-performance tires. Wider and stickier, they provide improved traction.
- Lowered suspension – This provides stiffer springs, which transfer less weight when accelerating. Consequently, acceleration is quicker. Lowering a vehicle also improves its aerodynamics.
