Tesla has changed the way many people think about EVs. Cars like the Model Y prove that EVs can have a long driving range without sacrificing speed. However, according to MotorTrend, the Tesla Model Y also lacks something that EV shoppers have come to expect: a quiet demeanor.

Electric cars are notoriously quiet because their batteries don’t make a lot of noise like gas-powered motors. Sometimes, even pedestrians can’t detect an approaching EV, which is why the NHTSA mandated warning noises on these cars. The Tesla Model Y Dual Motor Long Range doesn’t have an engine, but drivers still won’t have a peaceful cabin.

What MotorTrend experienced inside the Tesla Model Y

MotorTrend reported a significant amount of road and tire noise coming up through the Model Y’s floor. This is disappointing for any luxury SUV, especially an all-electric one. The Jaguar I-Pace, one of the Model Y’s biggest competitors, provides drivers with a more serene ride.

The Tesla Model Y also has a stiff suspension, adding to the cabin’s overall discomfort. MotorTrend staff even went as far as to say that you could get a smoother ride in a pickup truck. Edmunds also mentioned that the optional 21-inch tires make things even more uncomfortable. To be fair, Tesla does point out that the ride quality is better with more passengers, but that’s hardly an excuse. 

There’s also the concerning issue of shoddy construction. Tesla has a spotty history when it comes to build quality, delivering cars with visible rust and misaligned doors. Someone recently discovered that the Model Y was built with fake wood trim, even though it was advertised as the real deal.

Unlike other models, Tesla has not made any considerable effort to prevent these quality control issues. MotorTrend’s Model Y featured ill-fitting headlights, uneven body panels, and other imperfections. Cars that arrive damaged from the factory aren’t acceptable for any brand, much less a luxury automaker.

MotorTrend also experienced problems with the Model Y’s autonomous technology, another given for a Tesla. With the Autopilot feature activated, the car doesn’t always make precise turns, which could be a potential safety issue.

The good things about the Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is great in terms of performance. Its dual-motor powertrain makes a combined 384 hp and 378 lb-ft of torque. While not as fast as the Performance model, it can still reach 0-60 mph in a brisk four seconds. This is especially impressive considering that the official 0-60 mph time provided by Tesla is 4.8 seconds.

The Tesla Model Y needs 118 feet to come to a complete stop, which is a good distance for its class. MotorTrend also reported that the Model Y is fun to drive thanks to its low gravity center. The all-season tires provide good grip and the steering wheel is nicely weighted.

The Long Range model has an estimated all-electric range of 316 miles. With a Level 2 charger, it takes 10 hours to reach a full battery.

Is it worth the price?

MotorTrend felt that the Tesla Model Y Dual Motor Long Range is a bargain at just over $51,000. As you’d expect from a Tesla, it’s packed with the latest technology, including that signature large touchscreen. It also has ample seating for up to five riders, plus a large cargo area. A seven-seater version is set to be released soon.

It’s also important to remember that one reviewer’s gripes are subjective. Another tester had no noise problems inside the Model Y, even saying its cabin was nearly silent. If Tesla could fix those cosmetic problems, the Model Y would be even better.