The time has come to reflect on a significant question for many prospective car buyers: is a Tesla a good car to buy? After spending 25 months living with a blue Tesla Model Y Long Range, experiencing its highs and lows, I find myself in a unique position to offer some insights. This journey has been a blend of begrudging respect and, at times, relief, as the ownership experience has been anything but straightforward.
This particular Model Y started its journey as part of the Roadshow test fleet before becoming a family vehicle. If you followed my initial review and ongoing coverage, you’ll know I was initially captivated by certain aspects of this electric SUV. However, some glaring issues quickly emerged, most notably the car’s inability to maintain cruise control for even short distances without alarming phantom braking incidents. Compounding this was the Model Y’s unforgiving ride quality, which became increasingly tiresome over time.
Over the years, Tesla has addressed some of these initial concerns. The phantom braking issue has been mitigated, new features have enhanced usability, and the much-anticipated “Full Self Driving” (FSD) became available. Yet, the persistent shortcomings of FSD raise questions about whether the fundamental issues were ever truly resolved.
Despite these challenges, the Model Y has garnered a degree of respect from me. This review will navigate the complexities of Tesla ownership, balancing the positives and negatives to help you decide: is a Tesla, specifically the Model Y, a good car for you to buy? Join me as we delve into the details and attempt to reach a balanced conclusion.
Driving Dynamics: A Mixed Bag
Image: Tesla Model Y driving on a paved road, showcasing its sleek design but hinting at potential ride quality issues.
The driving dynamics of the Model Y present a split personality, influencing whether it’s a truly “good car”. While it can be remarkably enjoyable at times, it also proves frustratingly unrewarding and, crucially, punishingly harsh in everyday driving.
Let’s begin with the positives: power. The Model Y is genuinely quick. Officially rated at 4.8 seconds to 60 mph, it feels even more energetic, launching forward with force that often overwhelms the 19-inch tires. This brisk acceleration contributes to the fun factor, but it also highlights a potential downside – tire wear. After only 15,000 miles, the tires showed noticeable wear, despite the seasonal use of dedicated snow tires.
The steering is another double-edged sword. It’s incredibly quick and responsive, contributing to the nimble feel. However, it’s also devoid of feedback, offering little connection to the road. This speed and the small steering wheel make the Model Y feel agile and engaging, offering surprising grins for such an efficient EV.
However, this fun is easily curtailed. The moment the slightest wheelspin or slip occurs, Tesla’s overly cautious safety systems intervene, abruptly cutting power and dampening the driving enjoyment. This intrusive intervention can be frustrating for drivers seeking a more engaging experience.
“Even minor imperfections in asphalt translate to jarring feedback in the cabin, thanks to a suspension system that lacks refinement.”
The harsh ride quality significantly impacts the Model Y’s overall appeal as a “good car” for daily use. Even minor road imperfections send jarring feedback into the cabin, a consequence of a suspension system that prioritizes firmness over comfort. The car crashes over bumps, despite opting for the smaller 19-inch wheels specifically to mitigate ride harshness. One can only imagine the discomfort experienced with the optional 20-inch wheels.
This is particularly disappointing because, on smooth surfaces, the Model Y excels in cabin quietness, thanks to features like dual-pane acoustic glass. However, the constant barrage of impacts from even minor road imperfections detracts from the otherwise refined experience, making long journeys less enjoyable. If a comfortable ride is a priority, the Model Y’s suspension is a significant point of consideration when deciding if it’s a “good car” to buy.
Winter Performance: Grip vs. Fun in the Snow
Image: Tesla Model Y driving in snowy conditions, highlighting the importance of winter tires for optimal performance and safety.
Winter performance is a crucial aspect for many car buyers, and the Tesla Model Y presents a mixed picture. The most significant improvement to winter driving came from installing dedicated winter tires – studded Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 EV tires. These tires not only provided exceptional grip but also surprisingly improved the Model Y’s ride quality due to their softer sidewalls. The improvement was so noticeable that they remained on the car longer into the spring than typically necessary.
However, on the factory all-season tires, the Model Y’s winter performance was less confidence-inspiring. The stock low-rolling-resistance tires are firm and not designed for optimal winter conditions. Despite common misconceptions online, dedicated snow tires are essential for safe and predictable winter driving in snowy regions.
If you live in an area with regular snowfall, investing in a dedicated set of snow tires is crucial for safe and stress-free winter driving with the Model Y.
While the stock tires are a weak point in winter, the Model Y’s stability control system performs admirably in managing available grip. With the Nokian winter tires, the Model Y transformed into a capable snow vehicle, confidently navigating even challenging conditions.
However, for drivers seeking winter driving fun, the Model Y’s stability control becomes restrictive. Even in low-grip conditions like frozen lakes, the system aggressively intervenes, preventing any significant sideways action. Drivers seeking a more playful winter driving experience may find the Model Y’s safety systems too intrusive, potentially impacting its appeal as a “good car” for all-season enjoyment. To unlock more playful handling, one would need to consider the significantly more expensive Performance model, sacrificing range in the process.
“Full Self Driving”: A Beta Feature with a Premium Price Tag
Image: Tesla Model Y dashboard displaying the “Full Self-Driving” visualization, highlighting the advanced technology but also the ongoing development and potential limitations.
The term “Full Self Driving” (FSD) remains contentious, with many considering it a prime example of marketing overreach. While the technology has evolved, its current state raises questions about its value and whether it enhances the Model Y’s standing as a “good car” to buy.
Initially, phantom braking was a significant issue, particularly in early Model Y vehicles equipped only with camera-based systems. The car would frequently and abruptly brake in response to oncoming vehicles in adjacent lanes, sometimes triggering the ABS. This was not only unnerving but also posed a potential safety hazard. While Tesla has improved this issue through software updates, concerns remain about the system’s reliability in detecting genuine collision threats.
Despite improvements to phantom braking, FSD itself remains a work in progress. Recent testing revealed that while FSD effectively maintains speed and lane position on highways, it exhibits questionable decision-making in other scenarios. Examples include unnecessary left-lane lingering, improper passing maneuvers, and erratic behavior during highway exits. Furthermore, the system’s resistance to driver override can lead to abrupt and unsettling vehicle lurches.
“Driving with FSD engaged often feels like being a passenger with an inexperienced teenage driver – capable in some situations but prone to unsettling errors.”
The $12,000 price tag for FSD is difficult to justify given its current capabilities. Competitors like Super Cruise, BlueCruise, and BMW’s Driver Assistance Professional offer more reliable, capable, and user-friendly driver-assistance systems at a lower cost. For buyers prioritizing advanced driver assistance, the current iteration of Tesla’s FSD may not be a compelling reason to choose a Model Y, impacting its overall value proposition as a “good car.”
Interior Durability: Surprisingly Dog and Denim-Proof
Image: Close-up of the Tesla Model Y’s white interior, showcasing its surprisingly durable and easy-to-clean vegan material, even with pet and denim exposure.
The Model Y’s white vinyl interior has drawn criticism for its aesthetic resemblance to less luxurious settings. Compared to the premium vegan materials found in EVs from Volvo, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, Tesla’s interior may appear less refined, especially considering the vehicle’s luxury price point.
However, despite initial reservations, the white vinyl interior proved surprisingly durable and practical. While the driver’s seat showed some denim staining after extended use, a simple cleaning with mild soap easily resolved the issue. The material proved remarkably resistant to wear and tear, even with dogs frequently occupying the rear seats (protected by a seat cover). The interior overall held up exceptionally well over the 25-month period.
For buyers prioritizing a durable and easy-to-maintain interior, particularly those with children or pets, the Model Y’s white vinyl option may be a more practical choice than initially perceived. While not overtly luxurious, its resilience contributes positively to the ownership experience and can be considered a point in favor of it being a “good car” in terms of practicality.
Range and Efficiency: Living with an EV’s Strengths
Image: Tesla Supercharger station, highlighting Tesla’s extensive charging network and the convenience it offers for long-distance EV travel.
Range and efficiency are critical considerations for EV buyers, and the Tesla Model Y excels in these areas, significantly bolstering its case as a “good car” for EV adoption. Over 25 months and 15,410 miles, the Model Y demonstrated an energy consumption of 277 Wh/mi, or 3.6 mi/kWh. This figure closely aligns with the EPA’s estimates, even with cold-weather driving and snow tire use.
The Model Y’s range predictions proved consistently accurate, alleviating range anxiety concerns. Access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network further enhanced long-distance usability, although idle fees sometimes detracted from the charging experience.
However, one persistent issue was unexplained range loss while parked, particularly during airport parking. Despite disabling Sentry Mode, the car occasionally lost a significant portion of its charge. This necessitates keeping the vehicle plugged in whenever possible during extended parking periods.
Despite this minor inconvenience, the Model Y’s impressive range and efficiency remain significant advantages. For buyers prioritizing long-range capability and efficient energy consumption, the Model Y stands out as a strong contender, making it a “good car” in these key EV metrics.
Reliability and Quality: Mostly Reliable, but with Quirks
Image: Tesla Model Y frunk with leaves inside, illustrating minor build quality issues like water ingress in unexpected areas.
In terms of mechanical reliability, the Model Y proved faultless throughout the 25-month ownership period. No service visits were required for mechanical issues. While pre-delivery quality control can be inconsistent in Teslas, this particular Model Y exhibited reasonably good panel alignment and overall fit and finish upon delivery.
However, some quality quirks emerged. Fogging taillights after rain persisted, and water ingress into the frunk was observed, rendering it unsuitable for storing items that needed to remain dry. The discovery of leaves inside the sealed frunk further highlighted unexpected entry points for environmental elements.
While these issues are minor and did not impact the car’s functionality, they reflect areas where Tesla’s build quality could be improved. For buyers seeking absolute perfection in build quality, these quirks might be a point of consideration. However, the overall mechanical reliability remains a strong point, contributing to the Model Y’s position as a generally “good car” in terms of dependability.
Cost and Competition: Navigating a Shifting Market
Image: Tesla Model Y in a showroom setting, prompting consideration of its price point and value proposition in the competitive EV market.
Tesla’s pricing is known for its fluctuations, making cost analysis a dynamic exercise. The original Model Y Long Range, equipped with options like paint, interior, tow hitch, and FSD, totaled $67,490. Remarkably, configuring the same vehicle today results in a similar price of $66,880, including delivery fees.
However, the competitive landscape has shifted significantly. The base Tesla Model Y now starts at a lower price point, but compelling alternatives have emerged at even more competitive prices. The Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6 all offer comparable or superior driving experiences at a lower entry cost. Furthermore, upcoming models like the Volvo EX30 and premium EVs like the Audi Q8 E-Tron and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV present compelling luxury alternatives within a similar price range.
In this evolving market, the Model Y’s value proposition is less clear-cut. Its primary differentiator remains its range, but other factors like ride comfort, driver-assistance technology, and brand image now weigh more heavily in purchase decisions. For buyers solely focused on maximizing range, the Model Y remains competitive. However, for those seeking a more well-rounded EV with fewer compromises, the growing competition necessitates careful consideration before deeming the Model Y a definitively “good car” purchase.
Weighing the Pros and Cons: Is the Tesla Model Y Right for You?
Things I’ll Miss (Pros):
- Dog Mode: A unique and practical feature for pet owners.
- Exceptional Range: Minimizes range anxiety and enhances long-distance travel.
- Supercharger Network: Convenient and reliable charging infrastructure (though evolving).
- Quick Acceleration: Engaging and fun driving performance.
- Streamlined Purchase Experience: Direct-to-consumer model eliminates dealership hassles.
Things I’ll Not Miss (Cons):
- Uncomfortable Ride Quality: Harsh suspension detracts from daily driving comfort.
- “Beta” FSD System: Overpriced and underperforming driver-assistance technology.
- Random Range Loss While Parked: Inconvenient and unexplained battery drain.
- Monthly Payments: The financial commitment of ownership.
- Association with Tesla Brand Image: Potentially polarizing brand image due to Elon Musk’s public persona.
The Final Verdict: A Contender, but Not Without Caveats
Image: Tesla Model Y parked in a suburban setting, symbolizing the complex decision of whether it fits into a buyer’s lifestyle and preferences.
The Tesla Model Y remains a significant contender in the electric crossover SUV segment. It offers a compelling combination of range and performance. However, whether it’s a “good car to buy” is a nuanced question dependent on individual priorities.
For buyers prioritizing range, Supercharger access, and brisk acceleration, and who are willing to overlook ride comfort and FSD limitations, the Model Y remains a viable option. However, for those seeking a more premium experience, superior ride quality, or more advanced and reliable driver-assistance features, compelling alternatives exist in the rapidly expanding EV market.
Furthermore, Tesla’s evolving brand image, increasingly intertwined with Elon Musk’s public persona, may be a deciding factor for some buyers. For those uncomfortable with this association, or seeking a less politically charged vehicle choice, alternative EVs may be more appealing.
Ultimately, the Tesla Model Y is a car with notable strengths and weaknesses. It’s a “good car” in some respects, but not universally so. A significant revamp, particularly addressing ride quality and FSD, would be necessary to elevate it to a truly exceptional vehicle, and one that I could personally consider owning again. For now, the decision of whether to buy a Tesla Model Y requires careful consideration of your individual needs, priorities, and tolerance for its inherent compromises in a competitive and rapidly evolving EV landscape.
