The 2023 Tesla Model Y is a compact luxury electric crossover SUV, first introduced for the 2020 model year. It shares much of its platform with the Model 3 sedan. Key trims for 2023 included the Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range, and Performance variants, with pricing typically ranging from approximately $47,000 to over $60,000 before options. Its popularity stems from its exceptional electric range, blistering acceleration, advanced technology, and practical SUV body style, making it a compelling choice for many buyers.
The Good
The 2023 Model Y offers exhilarating performance with instant torque and rapid acceleration, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, its impressive electric efficiency reduces "fuel" costs significantly, offering great long-term value. Its sleek, minimalist design and spacious, comfortable interior, combined with advanced tech and generally reliable electric powertrain, make it a strong choice for modern families.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch out for the Model Y's firm ride quality, which some find uncomfortable. Build quality inconsistencies, such as panel gaps and paint imperfections, have been reported. The minimalist interior design, lacking physical buttons, can be polarizing, and high insurance premiums are also a notable concern. Tesla's service network can also be hit or miss depending on location.
2023 Tesla Model Y: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2023 Tesla Model Y is exclusively electric, featuring permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motors.
- Horsepower:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Approximately 295 hp (single motor).
- Long Range (AWD): Estimated 384 hp (dual motors).
- Performance (AWD): Estimated 455 hp (dual motors).
- Fuel Economy (EPA MPGe):
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Around 125 MPGe combined.
- Long Range: Around 123 MPGe combined.
- Performance: Around 111 MPGe combined.
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Approximately 6.6 seconds.
- Long Range: 4.8 seconds.
- Performance: 3.5 seconds.
- Electric Range (EPA Estimated):
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Approximately 260 miles.
- Long Range: Approximately 330 miles.
- Performance: Approximately 303 miles.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs when equipped with the optional tow hitch.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Entry-level model with a single rear motor, standard range, 19-inch wheels, and all core Tesla features.
- Long Range: Dual-motor All-Wheel Drive, significantly extended range, quicker acceleration, and often includes premium interior upgrades like a premium audio system and heated steering wheel. It also features 19-inch Gemini wheels standard, with 20-inch Induction wheels as an option.
- Performance: Top-tier dual-motor All-Wheel Drive model with the quickest acceleration, a slightly lower range due to performance tuning, 21-inch Überturbine wheels, performance brakes, a lowered suspension, aluminum alloy pedals, and a higher top speed.
2023 Tesla Model Y Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2023 |
| Make | Tesla |
| Model | Model Y |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Electric |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2023 Tesla Model Y Have?
While the 2023 Tesla Model Y benefits from the simplicity of an electric powertrain, some frequently reported problems primarily revolve around initial build quality and minor user experience issues. Owners have occasionally reported inconsistent panel gaps, minor paint blemishes, and interior trim rattles or squeaks, though these have improved over earlier Model Y production years. Software glitches, while often fixable via over-the-air updates, can sometimes lead to temporary inconveniences with features like Autopilot or the infotainment system.
Less common but reported concerns include issues with the 12V battery (though this is a general EV issue, not unique to Tesla), and occasional reports of suspension noise or premature wear in some components. For the 2023 model year specifically, many of the more significant initial production kinks from 2020-2021 models, such as widespread build quality issues or component failures, have largely been addressed.
In terms of recalls, Tesla vehicles, including the Model Y, have had several software-related recalls, often addressed with an OTA update without requiring a service visit. These have included issues like unexpected braking (phantom braking), seat belt reminders, or minor display anomalies, reflecting Tesla's ability to remotely fix issues. Physical recalls, while rarer, have also occurred, such as for potential loose bolts on steering or suspension components in earlier models. Long-term reliability concerns typically focus on battery degradation over many years and miles, which is generally slow and within expected parameters, and the cost/availability of specialized repairs for body work or major electronic components, which can be higher than conventional vehicles.
Less common but reported concerns include issues with the 12V battery (though this is a general EV issue, not unique to Tesla), and occasional reports of suspension noise or premature wear in some components. For the 2023 model year specifically, many of the more significant initial production kinks from 2020-2021 models, such as widespread build quality issues or component failures, have largely been addressed.
In terms of recalls, Tesla vehicles, including the Model Y, have had several software-related recalls, often addressed with an OTA update without requiring a service visit. These have included issues like unexpected braking (phantom braking), seat belt reminders, or minor display anomalies, reflecting Tesla's ability to remotely fix issues. Physical recalls, while rarer, have also occurred, such as for potential loose bolts on steering or suspension components in earlier models. Long-term reliability concerns typically focus on battery degradation over many years and miles, which is generally slow and within expected parameters, and the cost/availability of specialized repairs for body work or major electronic components, which can be higher than conventional vehicles.
How long will the 2023 Tesla Model Y last?
Based on owner data and the inherent durability of electric powertrains, a 2023 Tesla Model Y can reliably achieve an average mileage of 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or 10 to 15+ years of service with proper maintenance. Tesla's drivetrains are designed for longevity, having fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines.
Long-term durability is generally strong, with battery degradation typically being a slow process, often retaining 80-90% of its original capacity after 100,000 miles. Weaknesses over time might include the wear of suspension components due to the vehicle's weight, potential for issues with high-tech electronics or sensors, and the eventual need for brake system maintenance (though less frequent than ICE cars due to regenerative braking). Software longevity and continued support for older models will also be a factor.
Long-term durability is generally strong, with battery degradation typically being a slow process, often retaining 80-90% of its original capacity after 100,000 miles. Weaknesses over time might include the wear of suspension components due to the vehicle's weight, potential for issues with high-tech electronics or sensors, and the eventual need for brake system maintenance (though less frequent than ICE cars due to regenerative braking). Software longevity and continued support for older models will also be a factor.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2023 Tesla Model Y is a technological marvel, centered around its prominent 15-inch touchscreen display that controls nearly all vehicle functions, from navigation and climate to entertainment. Built-in tech includes over-the-air (OTA) software updates, allowing for continuous improvements and new features.
Entertainment features are extensive, offering integrated streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and a web browser. It also includes "Arcade" with various games, "Caraoke," and other whimsical "Easter eggs." Connectivity is robust, with standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and optional Premium Connectivity providing live traffic visualization, satellite-view maps, and in-car internet browsing.
Driver-assistance features are a core strength. Standard Autopilot includes traffic-aware cruise control and autosteer, providing robust highway driving assistance. Optional "Full Self-Driving" (FSD) Capability adds enhanced features like Navigate on Autopilot (automatic lane changes), Autopark, Summon, and Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control. Future FSD updates aim for full autonomous driving, though it remains a driver-assist system.
Safety features are comprehensive, including multiple airbags, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Unique features like "Sentry Mode" (records suspicious activity around the car) and "Dog Mode" (maintains cabin temperature for pets) further enhance practicality and security.
The 2023 Model Y has consistently received top crash-test ratings. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with 5 stars in all individual crash tests and rollover assessments. These ratings underscore its excellent passive and active safety performance.
Entertainment features are extensive, offering integrated streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and a web browser. It also includes "Arcade" with various games, "Caraoke," and other whimsical "Easter eggs." Connectivity is robust, with standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and optional Premium Connectivity providing live traffic visualization, satellite-view maps, and in-car internet browsing.
Driver-assistance features are a core strength. Standard Autopilot includes traffic-aware cruise control and autosteer, providing robust highway driving assistance. Optional "Full Self-Driving" (FSD) Capability adds enhanced features like Navigate on Autopilot (automatic lane changes), Autopark, Summon, and Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control. Future FSD updates aim for full autonomous driving, though it remains a driver-assist system.
Safety features are comprehensive, including multiple airbags, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Unique features like "Sentry Mode" (records suspicious activity around the car) and "Dog Mode" (maintains cabin temperature for pets) further enhance practicality and security.
The 2023 Model Y has consistently received top crash-test ratings. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with 5 stars in all individual crash tests and rollover assessments. These ratings underscore its excellent passive and active safety performance.
What Colors Options are Available?
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2023 Tesla Model Y Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2023 Tesla Model Y had initial pricing that fluctuated throughout the year due to Tesla's dynamic pricing strategy. Base prices for the Rear-Wheel Drive model started around $47,000, the Long Range around $50,000, and the Performance variant around $54,000, before options and destination fees. These prices saw both increases and decreases during the model year.
Current used market prices for a 2023 Model Y vary significantly based on trim, mileage, condition, and included features (like Full Self-Driving). As of late 2023 into 2024, used prices typically range from $35,000 to $55,000, reflecting some depreciation from the new MSRP, especially after Tesla's new vehicle price cuts. Historically, Teslas held their value very well. However, the frequent new vehicle price adjustments by Tesla have led to a more noticeable depreciation for recent model years. Factors affecting resale value include the trim level (Long Range and Performance hold strong), battery health, overall condition, and crucially, whether the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package was purchased, as its value can be subjective in the used market.
Current used market prices for a 2023 Model Y vary significantly based on trim, mileage, condition, and included features (like Full Self-Driving). As of late 2023 into 2024, used prices typically range from $35,000 to $55,000, reflecting some depreciation from the new MSRP, especially after Tesla's new vehicle price cuts. Historically, Teslas held their value very well. However, the frequent new vehicle price adjustments by Tesla have led to a more noticeable depreciation for recent model years. Factors affecting resale value include the trim level (Long Range and Performance hold strong), battery health, overall condition, and crucially, whether the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package was purchased, as its value can be subjective in the used market.
2023 Tesla Model Y Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2023 Tesla Model Y presents a mixed bag for costs. Insurance premiums are notably high, often exceeding comparable gasoline SUVs, due to the vehicle's advanced technology, repair complexity, and high cost of parts. Fuel costs, however, are significantly lower, as electricity is far cheaper per mile than gasoline, especially when charging at home. Maintenance is minimal; no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid. Expect tire rotations, cabin filter replacements, and brake fluid checks. Repairs, when needed, can be costly due to specialized parts and Tesla-specific service requirements. Overall, the Model Y is economical in terms of energy consumption and routine maintenance, but potentially costly for insurance and unexpected repairs.
2023 Tesla Model Y Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Electric
Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
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2023 Tesla Model Y Safety Rating
NHTSA
2023 Tesla Model Y Insurance
Insurance for a 2023 Tesla Model Y is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2023 Tesla Model Y Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2023 Tesla Model Y competes fiercely in the compact luxury EV crossover segment against rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Volkswagen ID.4.
Performance: The Model Y, especially the Performance trim, generally outperforms rivals in raw acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.5s for Performance). Its range, particularly the Long Range model (330 miles), often surpasses direct competitors, although the Ioniq 5 and EV6 offer very competitive ranges. The Mach-E GT also delivers strong performance, but typically with less range.
Features: Tesla's tech suite, centered around its large touchscreen and over-the-air updates, remains cutting-edge. Autopilot is standard and effective, with the optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) pushing boundaries. Rivals like the Ioniq 5 and EV6 offer excellent infotainment and driver-assist systems (e.g., Hyundai/Kia's Highway Driving Assist 2), often with more physical buttons for critical functions, which some prefer. The Mach-E also has a strong tech offering, though perhaps less minimalist.
Reliability: While Tesla has improved, some rivals, particularly from Hyundai and Kia, often score higher in initial quality and perceived build consistency. Tesla's long-term powertrain reliability is strong due to fewer moving parts, but minor fit-and-finish issues are more commonly reported than with some traditional automakers. The ID.4 has faced some software issues in early models.
Price: Tesla's pricing for the 2023 Model Y, post-cuts, became very competitive. However, some rivals like the VW ID.4 often offer a lower entry point, and the Ioniq 5/EV6 provide excellent value with strong standard features. The Mach-E is generally priced similarly, sometimes higher for performance variants.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Model Y, especially the Performance trim, generally outperforms rivals in raw acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.5s for Performance). Its range, particularly the Long Range model (330 miles), often surpasses direct competitors, although the Ioniq 5 and EV6 offer very competitive ranges. The Mach-E GT also delivers strong performance, but typically with less range.
Features: Tesla's tech suite, centered around its large touchscreen and over-the-air updates, remains cutting-edge. Autopilot is standard and effective, with the optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) pushing boundaries. Rivals like the Ioniq 5 and EV6 offer excellent infotainment and driver-assist systems (e.g., Hyundai/Kia's Highway Driving Assist 2), often with more physical buttons for critical functions, which some prefer. The Mach-E also has a strong tech offering, though perhaps less minimalist.
Reliability: While Tesla has improved, some rivals, particularly from Hyundai and Kia, often score higher in initial quality and perceived build consistency. Tesla's long-term powertrain reliability is strong due to fewer moving parts, but minor fit-and-finish issues are more commonly reported than with some traditional automakers. The ID.4 has faced some software issues in early models.
Price: Tesla's pricing for the 2023 Model Y, post-cuts, became very competitive. However, some rivals like the VW ID.4 often offer a lower entry point, and the Ioniq 5/EV6 provide excellent value with strong standard features. The Mach-E is generally priced similarly, sometimes higher for performance variants.
Alternatives:
- For better perceived build quality and unique design: Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Kia EV6. They offer excellent charging speeds and a more traditional interior layout with physical controls.
- For a sportier driving experience with EV power: Ford Mustang Mach-E. It blends SUV practicality with Mustang heritage.
- For a more budget-friendly option with good range: Volkswagen ID.4.
Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Tesla Model Y a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2023 Tesla Model Y is ideal for tech-savvy individuals, small families, or anyone prioritizing strong electric performance, excellent range, and a minimalist, spacious interior. It's a compelling buy for those who appreciate cutting-edge technology, frequent over-the-air updates, and the convenience of Tesla's Supercharger network.
It is generally worth buying for its low "fuel" costs, impressive safety ratings, and strong resale value, though recent new car price adjustments have impacted depreciation. For new buyers, the Long Range trim often hits the sweet spot between price, performance, and range. For those seeking better value, a slightly used Model Y (2022-2023) can be an excellent option, as initial depreciation may have already occurred. However, be prepared for potentially higher insurance costs and accept that the ride can be firm. It's less ideal for those who prefer abundant physical controls or a plush, traditional luxury car ride quality. Overall, it's a highly capable and practical EV for the modern driver.
It is generally worth buying for its low "fuel" costs, impressive safety ratings, and strong resale value, though recent new car price adjustments have impacted depreciation. For new buyers, the Long Range trim often hits the sweet spot between price, performance, and range. For those seeking better value, a slightly used Model Y (2022-2023) can be an excellent option, as initial depreciation may have already occurred. However, be prepared for potentially higher insurance costs and accept that the ride can be firm. It's less ideal for those who prefer abundant physical controls or a plush, traditional luxury car ride quality. Overall, it's a highly capable and practical EV for the modern driver.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.