2020 Tesla Model Y Review

Tesla stunned the world when it pulled the wraps off the Model 3 sedan in 2016. Now the American upstart looks to re-create that magic with the new 2020 Tesla Model Y, a Model 3-based crossover with an available third-row seat.

Like the 3 before it, the Model Y entices with a relatively affordable starting price, a range of over 200 miles, and the ability to tap into Tesla's ever-expanding Supercharger network. If the 3 was the practical electric car for the masses, the Model Y is positioned as the people's electric SUV. It provides a much less expensive entry point than the six-figure Model X crossover, and if the Model 3's sales success is any indication, it should continue Tesla's push toward mainstream acceptance.

Sticking to the Formula

Due to enter production at the end of next year, the Model Y is a compact crossover that shares a lot of its DNA with the Model 3. The minimalist interior is virtually the same, with a 15-inch horizontally oriented display screen providing the focal point. The cabin should have plenty of headroom and legroom for five adults, and we hope the Model Y's taller stance translates to elevated seating for the rear passengers — the Model 3's low-mounted rear seats and flat bench mean those with long legs have to scrunch up a bit to sit comfortably.

But the Model Y will also be available with an optional third row, expanding passenger seating to seven. The larger Model X was already fairly tight with occupants in all rows, and the Model Y will be even more snug. Still, it's a nice feature to have, especially for families with young ones who won't need the extra inches for a few years. One element not carried over from the Model X is the pointlessly complicated falcon-wing rear doors. As with the Model 3, the Model Y's rear doors open with a pull of the pivoting handle.

Other than the elevated seating position, the real reason you buy an SUV over a comparable sedan is cargo room. Tesla claims maximum storage capacity of 66 cubic feet combined between the front trunk and the rear cargo area. This should give the Model Y a modestly sized cargo area compared to other compact crossovers, although the combined figure is competitive.

Charging Toward an Electric Future

Like its sedan sibling, the Tesla Model Y will be available with a number of powertrain configurations. The standard battery pack with rear-wheel drive carries a Tesla-claimed range of 230 miles. Selecting the larger battery increases range to 300 miles, in addition to dropping the 0-60 mph time from 5.9 seconds to 5.5 seconds. Further up the ladder is the all-wheel-drive dual-motor option, which adds another motor at the front, dropping range slightly to 280 miles but improving the acceleration time to 4.8 seconds. At the top of the range is the Performance model, utilizing the dual-motor pack but bumping power output significantly. Tesla's estimated 0-60 mph time drops to a stunning 3.5 seconds with this setup.

No matter which option you choose, you'll be able to tap into the ever-growing Supercharger network to charge quickly on long road trips. At the Model Y reveal, Tesla announced it's gradually adding new, even faster Supercharger stations that transfer energy to vehicles at a much quicker rate than before — Tesla is currently targeting 1,000 miles of range added per hour.

Pricing and Release Date

Tesla says all models except those equipped with the standard battery pack will begin deliveries in fall 2020. Deliveries of the standard battery pack are expected to commence in spring 2021. Note that new Tesla vehicles have historically missed their initial estimated delivery dates.

Pricing for the Tesla Model Y is expected to start at $39,000 for a base model with the standard battery pack. Going for the long-range pack increases the price to $47,000. Selecting all-wheel drive bumps the price to $51,000, while the hot rod Performance model retails for $60,000. All prices are before taxes, fees and any state or federal incentives.

Interested buyers can configure a 2020 Model Y and reserve a delivery spot by plunking down a refundable $2,500 deposit on Tesla's website. Keep in mind that only long-range versions can be configured at the moment.