Tesla Mode Y

New entry-level Model Y offers a decent range and comfort. Is it the best version in the line up?

- Alastair Crooks

YOU only need to drive on UK roads for a few minutes to realise how big a success the Model Y has been since it arrived here in 2022, because you'll likely see one. Even before the Tesla's recent facelift, it was the fifth bestselling car here, so clearly there's a lot riding on this update.

Starting brightly, the range-topping Launch Edition Model Y beat the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Audi Q4 e-tron earlier this year in our electric family car triple test, thanks to an outstanding mix of performance and efficiency. That £61k Launch Edition has since been removed, with the £51,990 Long Range All-Wheel Drive taking that flagship role (until the Performance variant returns, at least). Sitting beneath it is the £48,990 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive and kicking off the Model Y lineup is this £44,990 Standard Range Rear-Wheel Drive.

Don't go looking for differences between the three Model Y options on the outside, because they're identical. There's a new Cybertruck-inspired front end with a full-width lightbar, and separate headlights on the reshaped bumper. The rear's cosmetic tweaks are even more drastic, with another full-width light that actually reflects back onto the bodywork. It's a bold design, and one that helps the Tesla stand out in a sea of new rivals.

The new look isn't just for show, either. Crucially for the Model Y and its never-ending battle for range superiority, its aerodynamics have been improved. The Model Y has a drag coefficient of 0.22, which is 0.1 better than before, and also the same as the super-sleek Porsche Taycan (plus just a little way off the Model 3).