Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD real world range test

Vik Braykov, 17 February 2024

The Tesla Model Y recently became the best-selling vehicle on the planet. This is a huge achievement as the crossover becomes the first EV to carry that title. Our aim today is to find out how efficient the Model Y is, compared to its EV rivals.

Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD real world range test

Our test example is the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD, which isn’t the most powerful version of the model, yet it still produces 378 kW (514 hp) and 364 lb-ft, which are highly impressive figures. It is a compact SUV that offers seating for up to 7 people and a wide array of options and features for a modern and pleasant drive.

We did an in-depth review of this Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD, but now we will dive into its consumption and efficiency. Let’s look at what we measured on our test routes, which include driving at constant speeds at the same place with each car we test.

Range test results

37 mph
56 mph
81 mph

Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+

544 miles

5.1 mi/kWh 70°F

BMW i7 xDrive60

518 miles

5.1 mi/kWh 75°F

Tesla Model Y Long Range (2023)

452 miles

6 mi/kWh 100°F

Hyundai Ioniq 6 LR AWD

440 miles

5.9 mi/kWh 75°F

Volkswagen ID.4 GTX

419 miles

5.5 mi/kWh 63°F

Nissan Ariya 87 kWh FWD

409 miles

4.7 mi/kWh 52°F

Tesla Model S 75D (2018, used)

393 miles

5.9 mi/kWh 73°F

As we look into the results it becomes apparent just how efficient and consistent the Model Y is at all speeds. Even though we had to test it in very hot conditions with an ambient temperature of 100°F, the Model Y Long Range AWD still showed great results in all three tests.

At our lowest testing speed of 37 mph the Model Y consumed merely 6 mi/kWh. A lot of this energy goes towards the A/C system, which had to work extra hard to keep the cabin within a tolerable temperature.

Once we move on to the next speed of 56 mph we don’t see a significant increase in consumption. Even with its raised roofline, big wheels and generally big size, the drag coefficient of just 0.23 Cd helps to keep the consumption very reasonable.

At the highest testing speed of 81 mph the Model Y starts struggling, the extra height starting to take its toll. Compared to the older Tesla Model S, it consumes notably more, yet for the segment it performs adequately.

In conclusion, the Tesla Model Y's success is in no small part due to its efficiency. The Long Range AWD strikes a great balance with quick acceleration and plenty of range. Its efficiency is great, especially for its size and precisely that balance is what persuades so many people to go and buy it.

We now suggest you use the widget below to find out the Model Y’s range in every combination of speed and temperature you might need. We've used our real world tests and a complex model to provide an estimate that should be as close to the actual performance as possible.

This article contains localized units and prices. .

Reader comments

dafydd a

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