The 2020 Tesla Model Y electric crossover is the next big thing from the automaker, until the next thing.
Pros Another electric crossover Another Tesla Another tech spectacle Another car for non-car people
Cons Another deadline for Tesla to miss Another wait for mainstream buyers Another distraction Another promise of self-driving
The 2020 Tesla Model Y is an all-new model.Part of the first Model Y generation introduced for 2020.
Pros 300-mile projected maximum range Stunning acceleration from the Performance model Convenient Supercharger network Cutting-edge technology
Cons Unreliable delivery and pricing expectations Reputation for poor build quality Tiny third-row seats No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support
The newest ambitious project from Tesla is the all-electric Model Y compact crossover. Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk touted a driving range of up to 300 miles and a zero-to-60-mph time of as little as 3.5 seconds when he unveiled the Model Y during a livestreamed event in March. The 2020 Tesla Model Y looks very similar to the compact Model 3 sedan but can be outfitted with a third row of seats for a total seating capacity of seven.
Pros Peppy electric powertrain, spacious cargo hold, cutting-edge technology features.
Cons Chassis isn't as taut as the four-door Model 3, fit-and-finish needs polish, too reliant on the touchscreen for simple vehicle settings.
Tesla has made the Model 3 a better value for 2019 by dropping the price on all three of the variants listed below by $2000. The Model 3 Performance also now comes standard with the the previously optional Performance Upgrade package, which includes 20-inch wheels with summer tires, upgraded brakes, a carbon-fiber spoiler, aluminum pedal trim, a lowered suspension, and a 10-mph increase in top speed (to 155 mph).
Pros Quick acceleration and nimble handling, real-world-usable driving range, lots of future-is-now technology.
Cons More affordable variant may never arrive, driving range doesn't hold up on the highway, stark interior layout.
Pros Explosive acceleration at any speed Class leading in-car technology and driver assistance systems Easy to drive with established charging infrastructure availability
Cons Charging infrastructure in Australia lags behind the USA Some build quality issues Handling not quite as sharp as we expected
A less expensive battery pack is expected to debut later in the year. Aside from a few ergonomic issues, the 2019 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best electric vehicles on sale today.
Pros Tesla prestige at a lower price Class-leading performance and handling More technologically advanced than rivals Supercharger network access for long-distance driving
Cons Touchscreen interface design can lead to driver distraction No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support Limited cargo capacity and interior storage
