Why Should You Buy a Tesla Model Y?

Key Points

• Tesla’s Model Y has great safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.
• The Model Y is built for performance and has impressive towing capabilities.
• Owners can use the Tesla Supercharger Network.
• Tesla has packed some wonderful functionality into the onboard software.

Are you looking for some reasons to buy a Tesla Model Y? The Model Y has proven to be a popular choice in the Tesla lineup, offering a spacious interior with the manufacturer’s trademark performance.

While there are other options on the market for an electric SUV, few pack as many features as the Model Y. EVs are a great choice for any household due to the lower maintenance costs, affordable fueling, and just being a better choice for the environment.

If you’re a prospective buyer, this guide should help provide some enticing reasons to get into a Model Y today.

What Is the Tesla Model Y?

The Model Y is Tesla’s more affordable SUV. It differs from the Model X in having been built with more affordable materials as well as keeping the conventional doors. You won’t find the high-tech amenities of the Model S or X here, but you do get access to the full software suite.

The Model Y is a powerful SUV, boasting some of the best performance on the market currently. It is packaged in a rather unassuming package, one which is certainly capable of carting a whole family around.

Specs

Why You Should Buy a Tesla Model Y

Here’s why you should buy a Tesla Model Y.

#1: The Long Range Model Has Excellent Range

The Model Y boasts some impressive range when you opt for the more expensive Long Range trim level. You still get access to all the great features of the standard Model Y, but the range is extended from 279 miles to 330 miles.

While there are other EVs on the market with longer ranges, few offer the same sort of performance as the Model Y. As such, if you’re looking for an EV with some pep, this is one of the best reasons to buy a Tesla Model Y.

#2: The Safety Ratings Are Great

The Model Y has received stellar marks from the likes of the IIHS and NHTSA. When you’re purchasing a vehicle for your household, it helps to know your family is safe. The Model Y doesn’t disappoint in this regard.

In addition to receiving excellent scores on crash test ratings, it also comes with a suite of driver-assistive technologies. You’ll get access to the likes of pedestrian detection, automated emergency braking, and a slew of other features that have since become standard for new EVs.

#3: This SUV Is a Top Performer

The Model Y packs a potent punch underneath its proverbial hood. The Long Range model readily accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 4.4 seconds. If you opt for the Performance model, you’re readily hitting 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds.

When looking at EVs, there are perhaps some concerns about the power behind them. The Model Y doesn’t disappoint in terms of raw power and acceleration. It is a tad sluggish in the steering thanks to the somewhat higher center of gravity for the axles.

#4: Impressive Towing Capabilities

The Model Y doesn’t come with towing capabilities by default. However, if you decide to purchase the Model Y Tow Package for $1,300 you get access to some seriously impressive towing. The Model Y tow bar allows users to haul up to 3,500 pounds.

You won’t be hauling massive loads of lumber or something, but you could easily tow a small camper or trailer. Users looking for a versatile vehicle will find this is one of the best reasons to buy a Tesla Model Y.

#5: You Get Access to the Tesla Supercharger Network

EVs need to charge, that’s just a fact of life. While charging infrastructure is slowly sweeping across the United States, Tesla has taken measures into its own hands. When you purchase a Model Y, you get access to the stellar Supercharger network.

This charging network is in much of the continental United States, and the Model Y even allows you to play trips with charging destinations along the way. While it isn’t as enticing as the free charging that is readily available for most EVs, it is one of the best reasons to buy a Tesla Model Y.

#6: The Interior Is Spacious

You’ve got plenty of space for your family inside of the Model Y. The actual passenger volume is 106 cubic feet, with ample legroom for all passengers. The interior is further finished with luxurious materials, so you’re riding in comfort.

You get quite a bit of space with the Model Y’s rear trunk as well. It comes prepared to accommodate 30.2 cubic feet of cargo. You can fold down the rear seats and greatly expand it to 76.2 cubic feet of storage. All said, the plentiful space is just one of the best reasons to buy a Tesla Model Y.

#7: Tesla’s Software Implementation

With so much of the Model Y’s functionality being tied to the infotainment system, the software doesn’t disappoint. In addition to an easily navigated interface, you get access to some great entertainment options.

Beyond the standard fare, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there are also apps like Hulu and Netflix for you or your passengers to watch while charging up. Tesla has even included the ability to play certain games, with popular hits like The Witcher 3 available.

Alternatives to the Tesla Model Y

If the Model Y isn’t piquing your interest, here are three of our favorite alternatives.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Mustang Mach-E is perhaps the closest overall competitor to the Model Y. Ford’s electric SUV captures a similar market gap, with great performance and a decent range off a single charge. Pricing is quite similar, as well, albeit a little cheaper since the starting price is around $43,000.

Ford doesn’t quite have the same keen eye for software as Tesla, and it does show. The infotainment system isn’t nearly as robust. However, the Mustang Mach-E does use universal charging, so you’ve got access to a steadily growing network of charging utilities across the country.

Volkswagen ID.4

The ID.4 isn’t the most exciting driver on the market. However, it does have an overall edge on the Model Y when you look at the pricing. The VW ID.4 starts at $38,995, so you’re getting quite a bit of EV for a lower price.

It doesn’t match up performance-wise, but does feature a fairly good range and has remarkably high safety ratings. VW is still ironing out the kinks of its software for the car’s central interface, but it is functional and quick to use.

The ID.4 is a great choice if you’re looking to save a little while still getting a solid set of features for your purchase.

Subaru Solterra

The Solterra is a cousin of sorts to the newly released Toyota bZ4X, an EV platform the manufacturers co-developed. While the Solterra won’t let you loose on a rally course with wild abandon, it is a great choice for a larger electric SUV.

It features an all-wheel drive drivetrain, impressive fuel efficiency, and ample power for daily tasks. Subaru’s EV is close in size to the Model Y as well, featuring nearly 30 cubic feet of storage in the trunk. It might not stack up when it comes to raw grunt, but it’s a dependable driver with a little extra versatility.

Closing Thoughts

The Tesla Model Y is a popular choice for most potential EV purchasers. Tesla has made a name for itself by delivering high-quality, accessible EVs to the masses.

The Model Y is more expensive than the smaller Model 3, but you’re getting access to stellar storage and a more comfortable seating arrangement.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©solepsizm/Shutterstock.com.