Experts complete two-year test on Tesla Model Y and share their results

The Tesla Model Y electric SUV was put through a two-year long-term test, and the results showed a mixed bag of positives and problems.

Reviewers covered more than 30,000 miles, logging consistent complaints about ride comfort, cabin quality, and usability.

Strong range and reliable charging access stood out as advantages, but the day-to-day driving experience proved less convincing.

The results give a clearer view of what EV ownership with the Tesla Model Y is really like.

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Inside the long-term test

Acceleration and range were consistent strengths.

The Tesla Model Y proved quick off the line and averaged 3.1 miles per kWh, with most charges lasting between 250 and 290 miles.

Those numbers put it among the more efficient electric SUVs in its class.

Comfort, however, was an ongoing problem.

The suspension felt harsh and the steering too sharp, making the car difficult to enjoy on longer trips.

Build quality also drew criticism. Rattles and squeaks developed within months, and interior panels did not always line up correctly.

Materials that looked fine on delivery also showed wear over extended use.

These issues raised questions about how well the electric SUV holds up to daily driving.

Drivers also reported that the technology was uneven.

The central touchscreen controlled every major function, from temperature to media, but took too much attention away from the road.

Voice commands worked in some cases, though not reliably. Even unlocking the car was inconsistent, as the phone-as-key system often failed.

Driver assistance systems created further challenges.

According to reports, Autopilot managed steady conditions but sometimes reacted unpredictably.

Lane-keeping and adaptive cruise could disengage abruptly, and Full Self-Driving showed erratic behavior across thousands of test miles, according to the MotorTrend review.

Charging remained a strength. The Supercharger network made long trips straightforward, with clear planning tools and short wait times.

This advantage, combined with the Model Y’s efficiency, gave it an edge over competitors still tied to fragmented charging networks.

Why the Tesla Model Y still leads the pack

The Tesla Model Y continues to outsell every other electric SUV despite its flaws.

Much of that comes from Tesla’s broader system of charging, software updates, and service, which makes EV ownership more convenient.

For many buyers, that convenience outweighs shortcomings in comfort and build quality.

The updated Model Y Juniper has brought changes such as a smoother ride and better noise insulation, though the core platform is unchanged.

Meanwhile, competition in the electric SUV market is growing quickly.

Automakers adopting the North American Charging Standard now provide charging access once unique to Tesla, while also offering more refined interiors and higher-quality assembly.

The two-year long-term test shows that the Tesla Model Y succeeds more on infrastructure and integration than on comfort or craftsmanship.

It remains the most popular electric SUV because it simplifies EV ownership.

As more rivals close the gap on charging access and improve driving quality, Tesla may need to raise the Model Y’s standards to maintain its lead.

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