Tesla Model Y I

Model Y in brief

The Model Y has been in production since 2020 and has been sold in Europe since 2021. Most of the technology is shared with the Model 3, but the body is taller, the seating position is higher, and the boot opens with the rear glass. Cars destined for Europe are built in Tesla factories in Shanghai and near Berlin.

The Model Y is praised for its space: aside from a large rear boot with additional space under the floor, there's a small front boot too. A heat pump has been fitted from the start, making the Model Y quite frugal in winter. Like the Model 3, almost all controls are on the central screen.

Early Model Y and Juniper — what's the difference

The first Model Ys sold in Europe (2021–2022) were mostly Long Range and Performance versions from Shanghai. Later, a cheaper RWD version arrived, and production in Germany began in 2022. Early cars were criticised for a firm suspension and cabin noise; over the production years, the suspension became a bit more comfortable, but driving comfort is best judged by test-driving a specific car.

The refreshed Model Y, dubbed Juniper, hits Europe in 2025. It features a new front end with a slim light bar, flush rear lights, a quieter cabin, a more comfortable suspension, ventilated front seats, and a screen in the rear row. There aren't many of these used cars on the market yet, with most listings being for the 2021–2024 Model Y.

Versions, batteries, and charging

The RWD version has a single motor and rear-wheel drive, while Long Range and Performance have two motors and all-wheel drive. The Performance model has larger wheels, a lower suspension, and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds.

The RWD battery is smaller, and some of these cars come with LFP batteries, which the manufacturer recommends charging to 100% regularly. The Long Range battery is around 75–80 kWh, and according to the manufacturer (WLTP), this version can travel around 500 km and more. Real-world range on the motorway and in cold weather is noticeably less.

In winter, you often see a 20–30% reduction in range, and even more when driving short distances. The heat pump and cabin heater, while the car is plugged into the power grid, help save energy. The Model Y charges via a CCS2 connector: typically with alternating current up to 11 kW, and much faster at rapid charging stations, although a cold battery charges more slowly.

What to check when buying a used Model Y

The key thing is the battery condition. Charge the car to 100% and compare the displayed range with the data for a new car; you can check the condition more precisely in service mode or at a Tesla service centre. Batteries in cars that charge quickly or have high mileage may have significantly reduced capacity.

Check the gaps between body panels, paintwork, and seals — the build quality of early cars was inconsistent. When driving over uneven surfaces, listen for any clunks or rattles from the front suspension: the Model Y, like the Model 3, often needs its front upper control arms replaced. Check that the heating and air conditioning work evenly.

The Model Y is heavy and powerful, so its tyres wear out faster than those on a typical car — assess their condition and check if there's a set of winter tyres. Check the history using the VIN, and on the screen, see what additional software features are assigned to the car.

Versions

Tesla doesn't have conventional trim levels — cars differ by versions (battery, engines) and production years. We list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

Model Y version comparison

Most buyers' best choice is the Long Range for its all-wheel drive and greater range. RWD is best for city driving, while Performance is for those seeking dynamism.

Frequently asked questions