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2025 Nissan Sentra Review2022 Tesla Model Y: This EV Does Everything Better
Among EVs, the 2022 Tesla Model Y is an impressive all-arounder. We look at interior options, trim levels, and more. Find our thoughts here.
What’s new for the 2022 Tesla Model Y?
The biggest change to the Model Y for 2022 is the deletion of the Standard Range trim level. Now, the Long Range is the new base model and the only upgrade is the Performance. The only other change is that pricing for the Model Y, along with the rest of its family is fluid and could go up at any time as it already has this year.
2022 Tesla Model Y – tesla.com | Shop 2022 Tesla Model Y on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Spacious interior
Fast
Tech heavy
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Limited configurability
Very pricey
We’d love a return of the Standard Range
2022 Model Y Specs
- 450 horsepower from base engine
- 471 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 2 available trims
- 34.3 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 76.2 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- 3,500-lb towing capacity
- Intuitive infotainment system
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- 4-year Limited Warranty
2022 Tesla Model Y Powertrain
Both trim levels of the Model Y feature a dual-motor AWD setup fed by a 75-kWh battery pack. It’s a potent package as this everyday grocery-getter can rocket from 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds. Opt for the Performance trim and that time drops to just 3.5. That speed isn’t totally let down in the bends either. Sure, the Model 3 with its lower center of gravity does better but compare the Model Y to just about any similarly-powered crossover and it’ll likely come away the winner with regard to athletic driving skill.
To achieve that, the team at Tesla has utilized a suspension that’s far more firm than some buyers will like. In addition, the large 21-inch wheels available on the Performance model make for an even more impactful ride. Everyday driving is serene and easy. Visibility is excellent and the only other complaint that we have is that it can be quite a noisy cabin at higher speeds.
Towing & Payload
When equipped with a towing package, the Model Y can pull up to 3,500 pounds. That’s more than the Ford Mustang Mach-E (2,205 lbs) and the VW ID.4 (2,700 lbs).
2022 Tesla Model Y Battery Range
The 75 kWh battery pack in the Model Y provides up to 330 miles of range in the Long Range version and only sees a drop to 315 miles for the Performance model. That’s well above most competitors and it’s bolstered even further by the extensive Tesla Supercharger network that exists across North America.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
Where the Model Y really shines is in the cabin where it’s spacious and comfortable. Seating is supportive and highly adjustable in the first two rows. Headroom and legroom are plentiful too. The optional third row is understandably quite tight and should be reserved for children. Visibility is exceptional thanks to the low dashboard and the absence of a large gauge cluster. The infotainment system so prominently displayed in the center of the dash has its highs and its lows.
It’s easy to use but can be a distraction for a number of reasons from having to be precise about touch interactions with it to just how bright it can be. Despite that, we think that it works very well for a first iteration and we’re excited to see what Tesla follows it up with.
Cargo space is another major win for the Model Y as the rear seats fold flat and storage is vast. Don’t forget that there’s additional space in the front trunk or frunk in case it’s needed or you simply want to store items completely out of sight.
Entertainment & Technology
The infotainment system in the Model Y is fast and despite being a little distracting at times, it’s set the bar for capability. That’s true too despite the fact that Tesla still hasn’t integrated Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support into the Model Y or any of its other vehicles. Thankfully, the menu layout and user interface are very logical and easy to understand. Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and other apps are available as are some games for users to play while waiting for the battery to top up at public charging stations. Climate controls can feel a little like a gimmick but they work well and that’s what we care about most.
Safety Features
Every Model Y comes with forward collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Advanced features are tied to the brand’s “Full Self-Driving” package which adds automated lane changes, smart summon (which allows the vehicle to come to you from a parking spot), and semi-autonomous driving behavior on the road. In addition, the NHTSA has given the Model Y a five-star crash test rating and the IIHS has chosen it as a Top Safety Pick+. It doesn’t get better than that.
2022 Tesla Model Y Trims & Pricing
Long Range – $67,990
The base Model Y comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, 19-inch wheels, faux leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, heated front and rear seats, a wireless device charger, 14 speakers, and a 15-inch infotainment system.
Performance – $69,990
The fast model adds 21-inch wheels, a lower suspension, aluminum pedals, and what we presume is about 50 more horsepower. Tesla doesn’t release its power and torque figures for the Model Y publicly.
Warranties
Tesla covers the first four years or 50,000 miles of the Model Y’s life with a limited warranty and extends that coverage to a total of eight years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain itself. That’s about average for the segment.
What we think
2022 Telsa Model Y – netcarshow.com | Shop 2022 Tesla Model Y on Carsforsale.com
The Tesla Model Y is about as balanced as a car can be. It has SUV practicality, sports car speed, and futuristic technology to satisfy buyers of all kinds. That combination often offers at least one major draw that appeals to a large swath of the population. Sure, there are lots of vehicles that do one thing better than the Model Y but it’s hard to find those that do everything better. If you’re in the market for an electric car, this is the first one we’d have you test.
