A fresh test drive highlights updates to the 2026 Tesla Model Y, praising improved style, driving dynamics, and strong range estimates.
The best-selling EV in 2023 is the Tesla Model Y, which sells better than most gas-powered vehicles. This is surprising considering the downturn of EVs over the past few years, but the Model Y continues to be a strong performer, capable of providing any driver with excellent driving range and plenty of Tesla technology to keep them happily modernized on the road. For the latest model year, the 2026 Tesla Model Y receives several updates to make it better than ever.
Pros
- Solid EPA driving range
- Great visibility
- Upgraded interior
Cons
- Too much touchscreen
- Ergonomic oddities
- Firm ride
New styling elements for the Model Y
The best-selling Tesla has been updated for the next round, making it fresher and ready for a fun drive on any road. This design was updated with new lights that go along with the updated front and rear styling. The forward leaning stance makes it an aggressive EV that is still mild-mannered enough to be a great EV for families.
The new lights are now connected by a full-width light bar along the front end. This gives the Tesla a modern feeling that you’re sure to admire when you get behind the wheel. Everything about the Model Y seems futuristic, but still current, which makes it a drivable EV that you can enjoy every day.
Going inside, you’ll find updated materials that complement the simplicity expected in a Tesla. A new dashboard which features a door-to-door horizontal shelf gives you the look and feeling you want. As you would expect from Tesla, a large touchscreen sit in the center of the dashboard that has very few buttons or knobs.
Where are all of the controls?
Like most Tesla vehicles, the new 2026 Tesla Model Y has very few buttons or knobs. You have a stalk for turn signals and a button on the steering wheel activates the windshield wash. Adjusting the wiper speed is done using a toggle near the rotary dial, but most settings are buried within the touchscreen menus. This can be problematic for some drivers, but the screen controls in this Tesla work better than in other vehicles that have mimicked this approach.
Power for the Model Y
The new 2026 Tesla Model Y comes in a few combinations. The RWD model has a single electric motor that makes 295 horsepower. The AWD version has two motors that combine to generate 375 horsepower. Regardless of the version chosen, you’ll have smooth and brisk acceleration and an impressive regenerative braking system that is easy to use and enjoy when you’re behind the wheel.
The Long Range version is quick
The Model Y Long Range AWD version is quick and decisive. One of the most exciting aspects of any Tesla vehicle is the instant acceleration offered. This SUV can hit 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds, which is much better than most sports cars. If you test the Model Y in a quarter-mile run, you’ll happily complete the task in 12.3 seconds at 115 MPH. These performance tests are better than the previous Model Y by 0.5 and 0.4 seconds, respectively.
Driving range
The Model Y Long Range gives you up to 327 miles of driving range when riding in the standard 19-inch wheels and tires. If you choose the 20-inch wheels, the driving range is reduced to 303 miles. If you choose the RWD version, you’ll have up to 357 miles of driving range using the 19-inch wheels. This figure drops to 344 miles when equipped with the 20-inch wheels.
When plugged into the Tesla Supercharger network, the Long Range RWD model adds up to 182 miles of range in 15 minutes while the AWD version can add 169 miles of range in the same timeframe.
A comfortable and airy cabin
The 2026 Tesla Model Y features a cabin with an open-air feeling thanks to the large all-glass roof. This roof is tinted to protect you during sunny days but still gives the airy feeling you want. The seats are covered in faux leather upholstery and are power-adjustable, as is the steering column. You’ll have heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate controls. Starting with this new version, the Model Y only has two rows of seats; the three-row version has been discontinued.
That is a large touchscreen
The Model Y is a compact SUV, but it has a massive screen in the middle of the dashboard. That screen measures 15.4 inches, giving you easy and visible access to everything you need from the infotainment system. You’ll have some impressive entertainment options, including access to embedded Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube apps that you can enjoy while waiting for the battery to charge.
Passengers in the rear seat have access to an 8.0-inch touchscreen display mounted on the back of the center console. This gives them access to entertainment features and climate controls for their area of the vehicle.
The 2026 Tesla Model Y has been upgraded to give you improved styling and more features. Could this new version be the Tesla you want to drive? The Model Y is already the best-selling Tesla vehicle and these upgrades could make it even more attractive to most buyers.