Tesla Model Y 2024 review
SUV Electric
Photo: Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Tesla Model Y is the UK's top-selling electric car, and the reasons are clear. It borrows the Model 3's winning recipe of long range, fast charging and clever tech, then adds a spacious SUV body with a huge boot and five proper seats.
UK price from: £44,990
Specifications
| Motor | Single rear-mounted electric motor |
| Power | 295 hp (approx.) |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 seconds |
| Top speed | 135 mph |
| Transmission | Single-speed |
| Fuel type | Electric |
| Range | 283 miles (WLTP) |
| CO2 emissions | 0 g/km |
| Boot space | 854 litres (plus frunk) |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (battery: 8 years / 120,000 miles) |
Features
- Up to 283 miles WLTP range (RWD)
- 15.4-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Autopilot as standard
- Supercharger network access
- Heat pump for winter efficiency
- Glass panoramic roof
- Powered tailgate, 854L boot
- Sentry Mode and app control
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin air filters (pair) | £34.99 | HEPA-grade pair; Tesla recommends yearly replacement |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £29.99 | Silicone aero blades, 675mm driver / 475mm passenger |
| Front brake pads (set) | £79.99 | Rarely wear on EVs thanks to regenerative braking |
| Replacement tyre 255/45 R19 | £189.99 | EV-rated tyre with foam noise reduction |
| Key card | £24.99 | Genuine Tesla NFC key card, pairs in minutes |
| All-weather floor mats (set) | £129.99 | Custom-fit front, rear and boot mats |
Pros
- Very low per-mile energy costs
- Superchargers simplify long trips
- Minimal maintenance needs
- Over-the-air updates improve it
Cons
- Stiff ride on poor surfaces
- No CarPlay or Android Auto
- Build consistency varies
- Insurance can be pricey
Frequently asked questions
What is the real-world range of the Tesla Model Y?
The Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y is officially rated at 283 miles WLTP. In real UK driving expect 220 to 250 miles in summer and 180 to 210 miles in cold winter weather. Gentle driving, pre-conditioning while plugged in and using the heat pump efficiently all help maximise range.
How much does it cost to charge a Model Y at home?
On a typical home electricity tariff of around 24p per kWh, a full 0-100% charge of the roughly 60 kWh battery costs about £14 and gives around 240 real-world miles. On a cheap overnight EV tariff at 7p per kWh, the same charge costs just over £4 — equivalent to well under 2p per mile.
Is the Tesla Model Y reliable?
The Model Y scores reasonably for reliability, with the electric drivetrain itself proving very durable. Most reported issues relate to trim, panel fit and minor electronics rather than anything that stops the car. Over-the-air updates fix many software niggles without a dealer visit.
Does the Model Y support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
No — Tesla does not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on any of its cars. Instead you get Tesla's own system with built-in navigation, Spotify, Apple Music and other apps. Most owners adapt quickly, but if phone mirroring is essential to you, rivals like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 include it.
