The Model Y sees a marked improvement in driving comfort. The suspension has been retuned so there’s a smoothness now that was previously lacking. It’s not as stiff and unforgiving.
When it comes to handling around turns, the Model Y performs with confidence and doesn’t present a ton of body roll. Visibility feels remarkable. Out the front windshield, the hood is so raked it virtually disappears. Seeing everything so clearly in front of you offers drivers a unique point of view.
All versions of the Model Y offer a competitive level of quickness. The long range rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version gets 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) version gets significantly more with 384 hp. The Performance trim makes 510 horsepower, getting you from 0-60 in 3.3 seconds. That’s what we mean by great responsibility, folks.
The “self-driving” Autopilot software is impressive and not unlike Ford’s BlueCruise or GM’s Super Cruise. Keep eyes up and ready to put your hands on the wheel. That feature comes with an $8,000 price tag.
It does get a new camera up front that improves functionality of the ADAS and other autonomous systems, which come on the effective Standard Autopilot suite of safety features.
Range and Charging
Range numbers look great with an estimated 357 miles on a full charge for the rear-wheel-drive Premium. All-wheel drive takes a small hit with 327 miles, and the Performance model estimates 306 miles. Top trims Model Y variants get the same 81-kWh battery pack, the same size as last year, but with improvements that allow for increased range. The base model gets a ~60-kWh unit. The Performance also has vehicle-to-load capability.
Once you plug in to charge, you can gain up to 182 miles of range (depending on model) in 15 minutes thanks to improved battery capacity and 250 kW charging speeds. The Model Y was already one of the most efficient electric SUVs, and it stays at the head of the class with these improvements.
Also see:
- 2026 Tesla Model Y Overview & Pricing
- 2026 Tesla Model Y Interior Review
- 2026 Tesla Model Y: Our Favorite Features & Tech
