The launch of the Tesla Model Y in India marks a significant shift in the country's automotive landscape. Traditionally, the iPhone has been the go-to status symbol, but the Model Y is poised to challenge this notion. This electric vehicle (EV) has generated immense hype, and after experiencing it firsthand on India’s varied roads—including Mumbai’s bustling traffic—it's clear why.
In Mumbai’s crowded roads filled with rickshaws, cabs, and SUVs, the Tesla Model Y stands out with its distinctive design inspired by the Cybertruck. The Model Y boasts a clean, neo-futuristic aesthetic that differentiates it from other vehicles in its price range. While it may not appear flashy in the traditional sense, its size makes a statement. The car appears larger in person than it does in images.
One notable feature is the sharp low nose, which lacks a Tesla badge but includes a full-width lightbar and cleverly hidden headlamp clusters. The design minimizes venting and aerodynamic touches commonly seen in other EVs.
Tesla is renowned for its thoughtful packaging, and the Model Y is no exception. The vehicle offers a generous 116-litre frunk, deep and well-shaped, perfect for a couple of cabin bags. It even includes a drain plug for wet items.
From the side, the Model Y’s aggressively arched roofline is a standout feature. The bodywork is restrained yet accentuated by sharp creases. The dark 19-inch wheels complement the car’s futuristic vibe. Although the Model Y is categorized as an SUV, its 167 mm ground clearance is slightly less than that of average Indian SUVs, giving it a flat, sporty stance.
At the rear, the Model Y features an innovative 'indirect' light bar that exudes luxury and helps it stand out. The duck tail spoiler on the high boot aids aero-efficiency, while the light cluster boasts a modern three-dimensional look. The chunky bumper adds to the car’s massive appearance.
The rear section houses a spacious 822-litre boot with a low lip and flat, deep load bay. While there’s no spare wheel—a potential issue in Indian conditions—there’s an additional large subspace beneath the boot floor. The powered second row folds nearly flat, expanding the cargo space to an impressive 2,138 litres, making the Model Y ideal for moving houses.
Tesla’s global impact stems from its innovative approach to car design, and the Model Y’s interior reflects this perfectly. The cabin is minimalistic, offering a unique interaction compared to other cars. The low, deep dash top with arched ambient lighting is a highlight, along with flat surfaces that merge into sharp edges for a clean, modern look. Air vents and the glovebox are discreetly integrated, with controls accessible via the screen. The all-black theme adds to the minimalist aesthetic, though a white upholstery option is available for an additional cost.
The Model Y’s build quality aligns with its price point. The cabin features a variety of textures, including soft surfaces on the dash, suede-like material lower down, and knitted material on the doors. While the panels may not be as robust as those in German rivals, this doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
The centerpiece of the cabin is the 15.4-inch touchscreen, which, while large, offers a deeply interactive and intuitive interface. Nearly all car functions, including the drive selector, are accessible through this screen. Initially overwhelming, it quickly becomes a fluid and responsive experience with logically laid-out menus. Customisable shortcuts and a live vehicle graphic enhance usability, though a fixed climate control panel at the bottom would be a welcome addition. The absence of a driver’s instrument cluster is disconcerting at first but improves visibility. A heads-up display (HUD) would be a valuable addition.
Despite the lack of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the TomTom-based navigation system is reliable. Tesla’s sense of humour is evident in screen-accessible games and gags, such as the Mars skin, boombox, and whoopie cushion. The screen also allows for watching movies and accessing music apps.
The steering wheel is simple yet traditionally shaped, the only place where physical controls are found. Thankfully, it lacks the yoke design seen in the Cybertruck and includes a separate stalk for indicators. The wheel’s scrollers can be used for various functions, including adjusting the wheel and mirrors.
The Model Y’s skateboard architecture optimises cabin space. It features two large wireless chargers, Type-C ports, a deep cubby where a gear lever would typically be, well-designed cupholders, and another deep bin under the centre armrest. The door bins are also large and thoughtfully shaped.
The front seats are impressive, offering excellent contouring and thigh support. Unlike other controls in the Model Y, the seats feature physical adjustment buttons on the side.