The Consumer Reports team has been testing the Tesla Model Y, and while the all-electric crossover was welcomed, some slight criticism was discussed in a recent Talking Cars podcast focused on its first impressions.
The Y model being reviewed was a white version of the vehicle’s long-range dual engine with the all-wheel drive and full self-drive option package, allowing for a review of both the car’s driving ability and driver characteristics. Automatic currently available. Jake Fisher, Director of Automatic Testing at Consumer Reports (CR), first noticed the fun and sporty nature of the Model Y’s driving style, but all participants agreed that labeling the vehicle as an SUV was a misnomer. .
“Overall, what you see is basically a Model 3 hatchback,” said Fisher. The dispute over style classification, however, was put in a positive light. Specifically, adding hatchback design features resolved what the group characterized as “deficiencies” in Model 3. “The benefit is that you get more headroom and especially rear seat space,” said Mike Monticello. , car editor for CR. “It’s like he took all the good things from Model 3, kept them … but took some of the bad things … and made them better … It’s an improved Model 3, if you think about it that way.”
However, some deficiencies still carried over to Model Y, according to the review. Fisher had issues with the handover of the center console display in particular. “They put everything on this screen that is off-center,” he said, noting that Tesla had “an opportunity” to improve the usability of the Model 3 features that were lost in the Model Y. In particular, the group wanted the ability to adjust the steering wheel, change air vents without going through the on-screen menu, and add automatic rearview mirror adjustment as part of driver profile functionality.
The actual driving and driving experience of the Model Y was also criticized for not improving on the experience of the Model 3. Mike Monticello, also a CR car editor, noted the stiffness of the car and wind noise in the cabin, which are not problems on the Model S or Model X. Monticello also noticed the noise of the tires while traveling and bumpy on the road.
Tesla’s latest beta autopilot feature also made its way into the crosshairs during the chat, specifically the stoplight and stop control feature that can be turned on and off. The feature previously caused the Model Y to stop at each red, yellow, and green light, but now it only stops at a green light if there is no car in front of the vehicle. “They keep changing the behavior of how this car drives,” Fisher said, noting that constant updates don’t add to the relaxation or sense of security the autopilot is supposed to provide.
Despite notable criticism from the Consumer Reports group, the review session still ended on a positive note for Tesla and the Model Y. They offered caution to consumers until the new crossover was on the market for about a year to judge for the first time. They once had reliability issues, but they recognized that alternative electric vehicles probably weren’t up to par with those specifically interested in Tesla.
Although there are options when looking for a vehicle that supports environmental concerns, the mindset of the current Tesla owner probably doesn’t match the features offered by other electric vehicle automakers like the Hyundai Kona, Fisher summarized. “Other electric cars don’t have that ‘Tesla Mystique’ … [they don’t drive like] … a high performance car. “
You can watch the full Model Reports podcast from Consumer Reports below:
