Tesla EVs Range Showdown: From Model Y to Model S, Ranked
by AutoExpert | 15 December, 2023
When it's time to pick an electric vehicle, one of the biggest questions is: "How far can it take me on a single charge?" With charging stations not as ubiquitous as we'd like, this is a biggie. Plus, just like their gas-guzzling cousins, the range of an EV depends a lot on the model.
So, let's dive into Tesla's lineup - the poster child of electric cars. We've got the popular Model Y and Model 3, the luxurious Model S, the spacious Model X, and the futuristic Cybertruck. They're all different when it comes to how far they can roam on a single charge, and it varies quite a bit across versions.
Let's rank these bad boys based on the version with the highest range within each model. But keep your eyes peeled for the fine print – not all Teslas are created equal in the range department.
Model Y - The Compact Range-Runner The Model Y, Tesla's best-selling compact SUV, is at the bottom of our list range-wise. You've got three flavors here: Performance, Long Range, and Rear-Wheel Drive. The Long Range leads the pack with an estimated 330 miles per charge. The Performance version, though pricier by $3,500, gives you 303 miles. Opt for the Rear-Wheel Drive, and you're looking at about 260 miles – a considerable dip but hey, it's easier on the wallet.
Model 3 - The Budget-Friendly Cruiser Not far ahead is the Model 3, Tesla's wallet-friendly option. It mirrors the Model Y with three configurations: Performance, Long Range, and Rear-Wheel Drive. The Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 offers a slightly better 272 miles compared to its Model Y counterpart. The Performance package jumps to 315 miles, but if long trips are your thing, the Long Range model hits a sweet 333 miles.
Cybertruck - The Bold Middle-Grounder Tesla's latest brainchild, the Cybertruck, lands in the middle. If we split hairs and ranked each package individually, it'd also hit rock bottom. You've got three versions: Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, and the mighty Cyberbeast. The Rear-Wheel Drive Cybertruck is at the bottom of the Tesla range with 250 miles. The Cyberbeast, however, steps it up to 320 miles, and the All-Wheel Drive version tops at 340 miles. Driving 340 miles in a Cybertruck? That's a statement.
Model X - The Long-Distance Runner-Up The Model X, Tesla's mid-size SUV, snags second place. It comes in two avatars: the standard Model X and the Model X Plaid. For range-seekers, the standard Model X is your best bet, with an impressive 348 miles on a single charge. The Plaid, with its tri-motor setup, still packs a punch at 333 miles, right up there with the Long Range Model Y SUV.
Model S - The Range Champion And the crown goes to... the Model S! Tesla's longest-standing and until recently, priciest model, it stands head and shoulders above the rest in the range game. The standard Model S pushes boundaries with a whopping 405 miles per charge, while the Plaid variant clocks in at a respectable 396 miles. From dual to tri-motors, the Model S is the go-to for those who want to go the distance.
Tesla's lineup spans a 155-mile range difference, offering something for everyone - whether you're a road trip junkie or just cruising to the grocery store. So, which Tesla will you take on your next journey?