TESLA MODEL Y

The first shipment of right-hand-drive electric SUVs has arrived in the UK

- JACK WARRICK

TESTED 19.2.22, BERKSHIRE ON SALE NOW

It has been a long two years for European Tesla fans. The Model Y has been on the road in the US since 2020, but only now has the compact SUV arrived here.

Based on the Model 3 saloon, the Model Y adds a degree of functionality, a chunkier stance and a heftier price. Starting at £54,990, the (officially 331-mile) Long Range tested here is one of two variants, alongside the £64,990 Performance.

It uses the same battery pack as the Model 3, at an estimated 75kWh (Tesla is notoriously coy about capacities), which supplies energy to two motors, positioned at the front and rear, for 434bhp and 424lb ft of torque. That's good enough for 0-62mph in a rapid 4.8sec - streets ahead of the Kia EVO's 6.9 sec time.

Power delivery is smooth and instant. In a car of this size, it can be shockingly abrupt. Four-wheel drive maintains traction, however, and the car generates good grip and possesses reassuringly accurate steering. Despite weighing the same as a rhino, the Model Y handles dependably. There isn't too much steering feel, but the rack is sensibly geared, and the lighter Comfort steering mode makes guiding the Model Y easy.