The Tesla Model Y in some ways leads the charge compared to other electric vehicle (EV) crossovers, while in other ways, it's a total outlier. Notable rivals include the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Hyundai Ioniq 6, and the Volkswagen ID.4.

What’s New for the 2024 Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is due for an update, at least according to typical vehicle lifecycles, but Tesla generally doesn’t abide by traditional automotive planning and tends to roll out changes and upgrades as they become available. In 2023, the Model Y got a new base trim, and for 2024, the Model Y may gradually see some of the changes that are being rolled out to the mechanically similar Model 3.

Design

The Model Y is the smaller and less expensive of Tesla’s two crossover EVs, though its styling melds well with the rest of the brand’s lineup, with a closed, sculpted nose, sleek sides and tail, and big, tall windows for a bright and airy look. The Model Y’s styling will likely carry over mostly unchanged for 2024.

Powertrain

The Model Y’s powertrains are also likely to carry over unchanged for 2024, though it wouldn’t be unheard-of for Tesla to mix things up at any point in the year. The base model offers 279 miles of range, the Long Range offers 330 miles, and the Performance gets 303 miles. The Performance model can go from zero-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. With two electric motors, the Model Y boasts all-wheel drive (AWD) across the lineup.

Interior

The touchscreen-based controls make for a minimalist, sparse cockpit. The Tesla Model Y is known for its two interior configurations, offering two or three rows for five- or seven-passenger seating, respectively. The Model Y gets standard synthetic leather upholstery and power-adjustable, heated front seats. Second-row heated seats are available. The second row is tight, and the third row, if applicable, is really only suitable for kids.

Technology

The Model Y comes with a 15-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system, where nearly all the car’s controls live. It runs on Tesla’s proprietary interface, which will take some getting used to for those new to the brand. Tesla does not offer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, but its system has tons of Tesla-specific features.

Safety

The 2023 Tesla Model Y earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and top scores of “Good” in all crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2024 Model 3 a five-star overall rating. Neither organization has tested the 2024 model. Tesla fits every Model Y with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic high beams, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and traffic-sign recognition.

Pricing

Though Tesla famously doesn’t confirm or deny information about new model years, and the automaker is also known for changing pricing on a whim, it’s expected that the 2024 Tesla Model Y will start at about $55,000, which is roughly in line with 2023 pricing. Potential buyers should look for more information in early 2024 and should consult with a tax professional to determine eligibility for state and federal EV tax incentives.