Tesla doesn’t follow the rest of the automotive herd on much, and its Model Y SUV is a good example of that philosophy. The all-electric vehicle offers advanced driving systems and tech that other manufacturers can’t, and while they don’t always come without controversy, it’s hard to deny their high level of innovation.

What’s New for the 2023 Tesla Model Y

Tesla rolled out a new base model for 2023, but the automaker has made no other updates to the Model Y. Even so, Tesla sometimes issues updates and rolls out new features as they become available instead of waiting for model year changes, so the SUV could receive other updates as time goes on.

Design

The Model Y borrows some styling elements from the larger and more expensive Model X SUV, which brings sculpted sides and a tall greenhouse. The front end features Tesla’s unique “closed nose” look, and the headlight shape is reminiscent of the Model X’s units. Cabin styling is austere, and there’s very little in the way of physical controls.

Powertrain

Tesla doesn’t hand out a ton of specs for its vehicles, but we do have some information on the 2023 Model Y Long Range and Performance variants. The Long Range model gets 425 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque, while the Performance pushes those numbers to 455 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. Both models come with all-wheel drive (AWD). The Long Range Model Y offers 330 miles of range per charge, and the Performance squeaks out 303 miles. Though the base model isn’t listed on Tesla’s site at the moment, it will deliver 279 miles of range.

Interior

The 2023 Tesla Model Y comes in five- or seven-seat configurations, and synthetic leather upholstery is standard. Heated, power-adjustable front seats are also standard, and buyers can upgrade with heated rear seats. There’s good space in the first row of seats, but the second row is considerably tighter, and the third-row seats are un-comfy for all but the smallest passengers.

Technology

A 15-inch touchscreen comes standard, housing almost all vehicle controls and entertainment features. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but Tesla’s advanced smartphone interface is plenty for most. Bluetooth, 14 speakers, a Wi-Fi hotspot, HD radio, SiriusXM radio, and more come standard.

Safety

Tesla’s safety features are generous and include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warnings, pedestrian and cyclist detection, parking sensors, automatic high beams, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Tesla offers Autopilot and Full Self-Driving upgrades for a ton more money, but be aware that neither feature can truly pilot the vehicle without the driver’s constant attention.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2023 Tesla Model Y a Top Safety Pick+, which includes “Good” scores in all crash-test categories.

Pricing

The 2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range starts at $56,630, which includes a $1,390 destination charge and a $250 order fee. The Model Y Performance variant starts at $60,630.

Certified 2023 Tesla Model Y for Sale near Ashburn, VA