The Tesla Model Y is the more affordable choice between Tesla’s two electric SUVs. It has the virtues of the Tesla brand, like engaging performance, a long driving range, and cutting-edge technology in the form of a practical SUV with seating for up to seven.
The Model Y is priced similarly to the Mercedes-EQ EQB and the more upscale trims of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, and Nissan Ariya.
The Tesla Model Y is available as a base Model Y, which starts at $47,440 and has a range of 279 miles. The other two Tesla Model Ys, the Long Range and the Performance, are quicker and have better range. One thing all of these Tesla Model Ys have in common is a dual-motor electric powertrain with all-wheel drive.
Note: The Tesla Model Y qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit.
Let’s take a closer look at the Tesla Model Y Long Range and Performance trim levels to learn which is the right 2023 Tesla Model Y for you.
2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range: $50,490
The Tesla Model Y Long Range boasts an impressive EPA range of up to 330 miles. It’s also fun to drive, thanks partly to a 4.8-second 0-60 mph time. This electric SUV has a nice balance of driving enjoyment and practicality.
Standard features include 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, a power liftgate, a panoramic glass roof, faux leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, a wireless charging pad, a 15-inch touchscreen with navigation, and a 13-speaker audio system.
The standard Basic Autopilot safety tech suite bundles several driver-assistance features. These include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, road sign assist, and parking sensors.
Upgrading to Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) adds Navigate on Autopilot, automatic lane changing, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon, which can remotely get the Model Y in and out of tight parking spots.
Adding Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000) adds the perks of Enhanced Autopilot plus traffic light and stop sign control. Autosteer on city streets is coming soon as an over-the-air update, but only if you have this package.
Twenty-inch wheels are available for $2,000, but they knock 12 miles off the Model Y’s range. You can also add a tow hitch for $1,000. The max tow capacity of the Model Y is 3,500 pounds. There are five paint options, and all but Pearl White costs extra, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.
A 2-tone black-and-white interior is optional for $1,000. Another interior option is a third row of seats for $4,000, bringing the total seating capacity up to seven. The third row is tight, but it can be a godsend when needed.
Finally, there are two options for charging connectors. You can get a wall connector for $425 or a mobile connector for $230. The wall connector is better for at-home charging, but the versatile mobile connector is portable and adapts to various outlets.
When you factor in the $1,390 destination fee, the starting price of the Model Y Long Range comes to $51,880. If you get a 60-month loan at 5% interest with no trade-in or money down, the monthly payment will start at $979. See 2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range models near you for sale
2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range includes:
Up to 330 miles of range — The Model Y Long Range has more than enough driving range for commuting and errand running.
Autopilot — The standard Autopilot system bundles automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more.
Up to seven seats — An optional third row of seats turns this SUV into a versatile 7-seater.
2023 Tesla Model Y Performance: $54,490
The Model Y Performance has a dual-motor setup similar to the Long Range model, but Tesla has tuned it for better performance. It hustles from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds while achieving an EPA range of up to 303 miles.
Additional upgrades include 21-inch Überturbine wheels, performance brakes, a lowered suspension, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and aluminum alloy pedals.
The Performance model has the same options as the Long Range model in interior colors, paint colors, semiautonomous driving tech, and charging equipment. However, you can’t get a third row of seats in the Model Y Performance. It only comes as a 5-seater.
The Model Y Performance starts at about $1,055 a month if you bring one home with a 60-month loan at 5% interest and no money down. See 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance models near you for sale
2023 Tesla Model Y Performance includes:
Quick acceleration — The 2023 Tesla model Y Performance hits 60 mph in a fleet 3.5 seconds.
Lowered suspension — A lower ride adds to the sporty yet subtle look of this electric SUV.
Performance brakes — The improved stopping power of the Model Y Performance is noticeable in spirited driving.
