Tesla Model Y electric SUV now on sale in the UK

The Tesla Model Y is now on sale in the UK, close to three years after it was unveiled back in March 2019. Two versions of the electric SUV are available, with the first deliveries of the Model Y Long Range beginning in early 2022; Performance models will follow slightly later in the year.

Both versions of the Model Y sold in the UK feature dual-motor setups with one electric motor on each axle for all-wheel-drive. Power figures have yet to be formally announced for either model, but the entry-level Model Y Long Range will sprint from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds according to Tesla, with prices starting from £54,990 for this version.

Meanwhile, the top-of-the-range Model Y Performance gets a £64,990 price tag, offering drivers an increase in performance, with 0-62mph taking just 3.5 seconds. Top speed jumps from 135mph on the Long Range car to 150mph for the Performance variant. Tesla says the Model Y Performance can cover up to 298 miles on a charge, while the Long Range version gets a 315-mile range.

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However, though the new Audi Q4 e-tron, Ford Mustang Mach-E and BMW iX3 rival is based on the same platform as the Model 3, it isn’t expected to be offered with that model’s Standard Range, single-motor configuration.

The Model Y also isn’t currently available in the UK with the optional seven-seat layout you get in North America, with European Model Ys all featuring five seats. Tesla’s mid-size SUV is capable of towing up to 1,600kg, with a tow hitch available to buy after delivery, however.

Inside, you get a 15-inch central infotainment touchscreen that also acts as your instrument display – just like in the Model 3. All Model Ys feature a panoramic glass roof and slightly raised seating compared to its sister car. Tesla’s mid-size electric SUV also boasts 854 litres of boot space when filled from the laden to the roof and in five-seat form, as well as a 117-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet.

In terms of charging, the Model Y is compatible with the latest V3 Tesla Superchargers, which means it can recharge at speeds of up to 250kW. A top up from flat to 80% capacity will take close to 40 minutes at that rate. It’ll take roughly 12 hours to recharge the Model Y’s from 0-100% using a 7.4kW home wallbox.

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Unlike most of its rivals though, there is a fairly limited options list with the Model Y: customers get a choice of five paint colours, black or white upholstery, and the option to add ‘enhanced autopilot’ for £3,400 or full self-driving capabilities for an extra £6,800.

The Model Y marks the completion of the ‘SEXY’ line-up of cars Tesla CEO Elon Musk laid the groundwork for over a decade ago when he unveiled the Model S back in 2009. The premium zero-emissions saloon went on sale in the UK in 2014 and was followed by the larger Model X SUV, and the highly popular Model 3.

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To find out what Tesla’s mid-size electric SUV is like on the road, click here to read our full review.