Road Test: 2024 Tesla Model Y RWD

Tesla's new base Model Y delviers the brand's signature capabilities, while still offering affordability, with the new model available from $55,900 (before on-roads). The RWD variant offers a genuine fully-electric competitor to internal combustion and hybrid vehicles from Toyota, Subaru, Ford and Volkswagen.

Presenting what some might call a rather unique exterior when compared to those rivals, including LED headlights and tail lights, the Model Y offers plenty in terms of driver and passenger comfort inside its open and airy cabin.

An expansive panoramic glass roof brings in plenty of light, while its synthetic leather upholstery adds a touch of class. Heated 12-way power-adjustable front pews offer decent comfort levels, and there’s loads of leg and head room, both front and rear.

A heated steering wheel, and similar functionality for the rear seats, adds to the well-equipped nature of the Model Y, while a power tailgate, dual wireless phone chargers, and a 13-speaker sound system round out a long list of tech.

Tesla’s signature 15-inch central touchscreen controls nearly all of the vehicle’s functions, from navigation to climate control, along with DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth and voice control. It’s also where you’ll find the speedo.

There’s no instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, which will irk some, but the main screen is a user-friendly and intuitive interface. From here you can also access features like streaming services, games, and over-the-air updates.

What’s missing though is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with neither available in any form, including via cables. Behind the wheel, the driving position offers excellent visibility, although it’s not as high as some rivals.

Offered only in a 5-seat configuration, the Model Y RWD provides plenty of storage too, with a total of 2,158-litres, including the rear and front bonnet area. On the road, the driving experience is distinct, especially compared to the all-wheel drive variants.

The single rear motor delivers smooth and responsive performance, with instant torque that ensures brisk and effortless acceleration. It’s certainly present, with a 6.9 second sprint time to 100km/h (claimed).

While it may not match its AWD siblings for sheer speed or traction in adverse weather conditions, it is more than capable in most driving situations, providing a balanced ride. It does feel less agile than say the Model 3 when pushed into tight corners though.

The Model Y may not meet expectations if you are focussed on a sporty driving experience, thanks to its overly firm ride that does a poor job in absorbing bumps and potholes on suburban streets. It does better on the open road.

It’s fair to say that the 20-inch wheels (19-inch alloys are standard) fitted to our test vehicle may be a contributing factor. Steering is responsive regardless of the conditions though, and there’s plenty of feedback from the drivetrain.

Optimised for range, the Tesla Model Y RWD should be able to travel 455km on a single charge. Tesla’s extensive supercharger network provides reassurance and confidence for long journeys too.

Able to charge up to 170kW, the Model Y can add up to 261km in 15 minutes, with the 2024 edition featuring a number of semi-autonomous driving functions under the AutoPilot moniker, including adaptive cruise control and lane centring.

An optional Enhanced Autopilot adds the ability to navigate in the near-self driving system, as well as auto lane change, an automated parking function and the ability to summon your vehicle to come to you.

A full self-driving package, should it ever get approved in Australia, will offer traffic and stop sign controls and autosteer on suburban streets. There’s an array of safety tech alongside all this too, including autonomous emergency braking.

Lane keep and blind spot cameras provide further assistance, but there’s no rear cross-traffic alert. It does have a 5-star ANCAP safety rating though. It’s available in Pearl White Multi-Coat, Solid Black, Deep Blue Metallic, Stealth Grey and Ultra Red (as tested).

The Model Y comes with a rather average, when compared to its rivals, 4-year or 80,000km warranty, with the battery scoring 8-years or 160,000km of coverage. You can find out more from the Tesla website or by talking to your local shopfront dealership.

This article first published on Exhaust Notes Australia. Our test vehicle was provided by Tesla Australia for independent review purposes.

For a great deal on financing your new purchase, contact Australia's best reviewed finance broker on 1300 Credit (1300 273 348) today or visit CreditOne.com.au