Explore more about this fully electric crossover.
All-electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly popular option in today's car market. Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? If so—and if you need the space and utility of a crossover SUV—don't overlook the Tesla Model Y. This fully electric crossover SUV offers seating for five to seven passengers (depending on the configuration you choose) and comes equipped with dual electric motors to get you where you need to go.
If you have questions about the Tesla Model Y, CarMax has the answers. Read through our comprehensive FAQ section to find out more about this innovative electric crossover SUV.
Tesla Model Y FAQs
Q: What is the range of a Tesla Model Y?
A: The range of a Tesla Model Y will vary based on model year, trim, and other factors. However, the 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range trim with dual motors and all-wheel drive has an EPA-estimated range of 326 miles on a full charge.1
Q: How much should I pay for a Tesla Model Y?
A: The price for a Tesla Model Y will depend on the specific model year, trim, add-ons, and other factors. For reference, a used 2020 Tesla Model Y sells for an average of $61,000 on CarMax.2 Likewise, the 2021 Model Y is priced at the same amount per CarMax data.2
Q: Does the Tesla Model Y have ventilated seats?
A: As of January 2022, the Tesla Model Y does not have ventilated seats, nor are ventilated seats an option on any 2020-2022 model year.
Q: Is the Tesla Model Y a reliable car?
A: The reliability of any vehicle can vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. According to RepairPal® as of January 2022, there is insufficient data on the Tesla Model Y to issue it a reliability rating/score.3
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Q: Does the Model Y come with autopilot?
A: Yes, Tesla writes on its website that “Autopilot is a suite of driver assistance features that comes standard with the purchase of a new car." This feature includes traffic-aware cruise control and auto-steering within a clearly marked lane.
It is important to distinguish autopilot from full self-driving capability, however. Self-driving is not a standard feature on any Tesla Model Y, though semi-automated driving assistance features are available as an add-on when the vehicle is sold as new.
Q: Does the Model Y come with wireless charging?
A: Specific features can vary from one model year and trim to the next. However, the 2021 and 2022 Tesla Model Y both come standard with a wireless device charger on both trims. This feature allows up to two Qi-enabled phones to charge simultaneously.
Q: Is there a cigarette lighter outlet in the Tesla Y?
A: While cigarette lighters were phased out of cars in the United States years ago, many cars still have 12V cigarette-lighter outlets for powering/charging devices. The Tesla Model Y has two of these outlets: one in the center console and one in the trunk.
Q: Which Tesla Y model should I buy?
A: The Tesla Model Y that's right for you will depend on many factors, including your budget and what you're looking for in an electric vehicle. As of January 2022, every Tesla Model Y is offered in two trim configurations: Long Range and Performance.
If maximum range is your priority, then the Long Range trim will be your best bet. On the 2021 model, you'll get up to 326 miles of range on this trim with a full charge.1 Still, you'll enjoy plenty of standard features that include simulated leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a large 15-inch touchscreen display, and a robust 15-speaker sound system.
If you're looking for something a little sportier and don't mind sacrificing some of your range, then the Performance trim might be your better choice. On the 2021 model, this trim still gets an impressive 303 miles of range on a full charge.1 Meanwhile, it can accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and boasts sporty features like a lowered suspension and 21-inch wheels.
Q: Is the Tesla Model Y an SUV or crossover?
A: The Tesla Model Y is classified as a small electric crossover SUV. It offers seating for up to five passengers, though a third row of seating (which is optional when this vehicle is sold new) can increase capacity up to seven passengers.
Q: Is the Tesla Model Y considered a luxury car?
A: Yes, Tesla is considered to be a luxury car brand, and the Model Y is no exception.
Q: Is the Tesla Model Y all-wheel drive?
A: Whether or not the Tesla Model Y has all-wheel drive will depend on trim level. For example, on the 2021 Model Y, all-wheel drive is standard on the Long Range trim. However, the Performance trim comes with rear-wheel drive instead.
Q: How much horsepower does a Tesla Model Y have?
A: Horsepower output on the Tesla Model Y will vary based on trim configuration. The 2021 Model Y Long Range, for example, is equipped with a dual motor that can produce up to 351 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Performance trim puts out 462 hp.
Q: What cars are similar to the Tesla Model Y?
A: As a fully electric crossover SUV, the Tesla Model Y is one of just a handful of vehicles in its class as of January 2022. However, some of its top competitors include the Volkswagen ID.4, the Toyota RAV4 Prime, and the Jaguar I-PACE.
Q: Is the Tesla Model Y a good family car?
A: Whether or not the Tesla Model Y is a good family car will depend on your own personal preferences and the size of your family. However, it does offer a wide range of standard features, as well as seating for up to seven passengers if you select a model with three rows.
Q: Does the Tesla Model Y have a heated steering wheel?
A: While a heated steering wheel was not a standard feature on the Tesla Model Y when it debuted for the 2020 model year, both the 2021 and 2022 models have seen heated steering wheels as standard equipment on both trim configurations.
Q: Does the Tesla Model Y have falcon-wing doors?
A: No, the Tesla Model Y does not have falcon-wing doors; its doors open in a conventional manner. This is due to the fact that the Model Y comes with a panoramic glass roof, which would not accommodate a falcon-wing door design.
Q: What are the different models of Tesla Model Y?
A: Since its debut in 2020 and up through the 2022 model year, the Tesla Model Y has been offered in two trim configurations: Long Range and Performance. During the 2021 model year, a Standard Range trim was briefly available, but has been discontinued.
Shop for a Used Tesla Model Y at CarMax
If you're serious about ditching stops at the fuel pump altogether, then an all-electric vehicle like the Tesla Model Y might be a good fit. Ready to shop for used models in your area? CarMax has you covered. Browse our current inventory to find the used Tesla Model Y that's right for you.
