Tesla Model Y first drive: Why Tesla’s best seller just got better
April 08, 2025 by Tom Wiltshire
Car changing is a big deal
The new Tesla Model Y offers increased range, slicker looks and a much nicer interior – but has it done enough to keep up with the best electric SUVs out there?
Tesla’s new Model Y has arrived, and while Elon Musk has been busy tweeting about politics and space, thankfully someone at Tesla has been hard at work improving their best-selling electric vehicle. So, has Tesla finally turned a good car into a great one?
Visually, this facelift feels somewhat uninspired. At a glance, it could easily pass for another anonymous electric SUV rolling out of China—flat lights, full-width LEDs, and all. However, it’s what’s inside that truly counts.
Step inside and things instantly feel more premium. Tesla has upgraded the seats significantly—they’re more comfortable, supportive, and an excellent improvement for long journeys. Improved soundproofing makes the interior quieter, though wind noise at motorway speeds still remains noticeable.
The minimalist interior continues to be dominated by the large, tablet-like touchscreen. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s now at least a traditional indicator stalk—apologies to Model 3 owners. Build quality now genuinely feels premium, with scratchy plastics largely replaced by artificial leather surfaces. The only downside is the hollow-sounding centre console, which feels less robust.
The Model Y is huge inside—perfect if your passengers need extra legroom or if you regularly carry substantial luggage. The boot comfortably accommodates 854 litres, outclassing rivals like the Audi Q4 e-tron and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
On the road, performance remains impressive even in the base model (0-60mph in 5.6 seconds—very respectable). Town driving has improved thanks to softer suspension, although visibility is still compromised by thick pillars and a small rear window. It’s also large enough to feel cumbersome in tight streets. Fortunately, Tesla’s camera and sensor systems offer excellent support for manoeuvring.
Motorway cruising is effortless, although the driving assistance technology can sometimes feel overly sensitive and twitchy. It may be safer and less stressful to rely on traditional cruise control. When roads become more winding, the Model Y’s driving experience is responsive yet strangely disconnected, almost akin to driving a high-tech video game. If you love driving you may find this slightly unsatisfying.
You won’t be worrying about range, though. The entry-level model achieves 311 miles per charge, with the Long Range variants offering up to 387 miles. Additionally, rapid charging capabilities (250kW can add 150 miles in just 15 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger) significantly reduce charging downtime.
Pricing begins just below £45,000—not inexpensive, but competitive given its impressive technology, improved interior, and spacious dimensions. Opting for the Long Range or AWD versions (£49,000 and £52,000 respectively) does increase the price, but these variants now genuinely feel worth the extra outlay.
Has Tesla perfected the Model Y? Nearly. It’s extremely practical, remarkably quick, and the cabin finally feels appropriately premium. Minor tech quirks and its large dimensions might deter some buyers, but overall, this substantial upgrade makes the Model Y genuinely recommendable.
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