2022 Tesla Model Y Review (2024)

Tesla’s Model Y hits the sweet spot in the growing electric vehicle (EV) crossover segment. It uses the same platform as the smaller Model 3 sedan (and about 75% of the same parts), but offers a rear hatch and more interior space. The Model Y benefits from Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network and over-the-air software updates, plus the latest models deliver best-in-class range. The dashboard display is bit overburdened with settings and Tesla still doesn't support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, but despite these drawbacks, the Model Y is clearly the front-runner in its class and deserving of our Editors’ Choice award.

Tesla Doesn’t Follow Tradition

Tesla doesn’t follow the traditional model for updating its vehicles. Instead, it frequently introduces changes to its lineup mid-cycle.

For this review, we tested the Model Y Standard Range RWD that the company positioned as the entry-level version with the shortest range. When it launched in January 2021, this model had a starting price tag of $42,000 and an estimated range of 244 miles. But within a month, the company dropped the price to $39,990 and—reportedly because mercurial CEO Elon Musk wasn't happy with its range—removed the Model Y Standard Range RWD from its online configuration shortly after.This variant is available “off menu” while supplies last and is still for sale in China.

Aside from dropping the Standard Range model, the current 2022 Model Y lineup—consisting of the Long Range and Performance AWD trims—hasn't changed much from the 2021 models. Estimated driving range for the Long Range is up this year, to 330 miles when equipped with the standard 19-inch wheels. Picking the more attractive 20 inchers drops range to a claimed 318 miles per charge.

(Photo: Doug Newcomb)

The Model Y Standard Range RWD we tested has a 275-horsepower electric motor that drives the rear wheels via a single-speed direct-drive transmission. Standard exterior features include 19-inch wheels with 255/45R19 all-season tires; automatic headlights; fog lamps; heated and power-folding mirrors with memory function; intermittent and variable-speed wipers; keyless entry; and a power liftgate.

It also sports default interior features such as dual-zone automatic climate controls; a glass roof; heated, 12-way power front seats; a heated tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel; keyless ignition; and a rearview camera.

Standard tech features include a 15-inch touch screen; a 15-speaker audio system with AM/FM HD and satellite radio; Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music streaming; four USB ports; connected navigation; wireless charging for two devices; and in-cabin Wi-Fi.

The Model Y also comes with driver assists such as blind-spot monitoring; forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking; steering assistance; and Tesla’s Auto Pilot adaptive cruise control.

The current, dual-motor and all-wheel-drive 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range starts at $62,990 and offers a range of up to 330 miles that exceeds its competitors. It also features driver seat cooling, heated rear seats, and a synthetic leather interior, plus you can add an optional third-row seat for $3,000.

The 2022 Tesla Model Y Performance starts at $67,990 and uses the same dual-motor AWD setup but gets less range, at 303 miles. Of course, it also rockets from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, which handily outpaces the Long Range trim's 4.8-second acceleration time. It adds 21-inch alloy wheels and performance brakes, plus utilizes a lowered sports suspension.

For comparison, the latest Tesla Model 3 model starts at $46,990 and offers a base range of 267 miles. The entry-level RWD Ford Mustang Mach E costs $43,895 and is capable of a 247-mile range. Volkswagen's ID.4 starts at around $40,760 and offers a range of 250 miles. And the Hyundai Kona Electric undercuts them all at a base price of $34,000 and a range of 258 miles.

In terms of design, the Model Y doesn’t fall far from the Tesla design tree—its bulbous exterior makes it stand out from competitors, but it still looks a bit dated.

The interior is more minimalist than most cars in its class and price range, but it’s comfortable and roomy. It includes plenty of space for passengers, as well as for gear in the rear cargo area and front trunk. Large windows and a full-length glass roof give the cabin an open, airy feel and excellent outward visibility.

Proprietary Tech

Part of the reason the interior of the vehicle feels austere is that Tesla eschews most physical controls. Instead, you access and navigate features via the 15-inch touch screen and the steering wheel's scroll-and-push controls.

This setup requires a steep learning curve, and the number of functions you control via the 15-inch screen at first feels overwhelming. But after testing the Model 3, which uses a nearly identical system, we were prepared for the Model Y’s quirks. We still find it distracting to search and tap through multiple menus on the screen while driving, however.

(Photo: Doug Newcomb)

It's interesting to note that Tesla is the only major automaker that doesn’t support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. That said, Tesla's proprietary system offers many of the same features, and wireless phone connectivity is a welcome benefit.

Onboard cellular connectivity provides cloud-based navigation via Google Maps, voice assistance, a web browser, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Music sources include the aforementioned radio, Bluetooth streaming, and various apps such as Spotify, Tidal, and TuneIn. Most importantly, the vehicle gets consistent over-the-air updates, introducing new features and improving functionality, which is a key differentiator between Tesla and other brands.

(Photo: Doug Newcomb)

Amazing Acceleration

Tesla dominates the EV market for several reasons, but swift acceleration definitely seals the deal for some buyers. Even though the base Model Y Standard Range RWD we tested had a 0-to-60 time of "only" 5.3 seconds (the same as the Model 3 we tested), it easily overtook most other vehicles on the SoCal streets and freeways where we drove it.

The Model Y offers two driving modes (Standard and Chill), as well as three steering modes. The position of its large battery under the floor gives the vehicle a low center of gravity that provides solid stability through turns. And while the suspension isn’t as robust as that of some sports cars, it’s smooth enough to keep the vehicle anchored in all but the most extreme curves and poor conditions.

(Photo: Doug Newcomb)

As mentioned, the Model Y has the requisite standard driver assists. It also has Tesla’s much-celebrated Autopilot system. Like similar systems, it uses adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to accelerate, steer, and brake on the highway. But it works better and more seamlessly than on competitors, and unlike those other systems, it graphically displays the situation around the vehicle on the dashboard screen in real time.

Our test car didn’t have the optional and controversial Full Self-Driving feature that enables it to autonomously brake for traffic lights and stop signs, change lanes, make turns, park, and pass slower vehicles (all with the option to return controls to the driver via the Summon mode). If you want these features on your vehicle, prepare to spend an additional $12,000.

A Torch-Bearing Crossover

Like the Model 3, the Model Y is the leader of its segment. Its sales have soared in the two years since its release, and it's easy to see why. The 2022 Model Y Long Range model offers substantially more mileage than competitors, while the Performance model pairs solid range with seat-pinning acceleration. In addition, Tesla's frequent and consistent OTA software updates serve to extend the functionality of its vehicles over their lifetime, making the Model Y's price a bit easier to swallow. This all adds up to the best electric crossover you can buy, and our Editors' Choice winner.