2025 Tesla Model Y India Review: Is the Hype Real?

Tesla, the world’s most talked-about EV brand, has finally entered India with the 2025 Model Y. Long awaited by enthusiasts and potential EV adopters, the Model Y launch comes with much anticipation and equally high expectations. But the big question remains: does it live up to its hype in the Indian context? With futuristic technology, a minimalist interior, and impressive range figures, the Model Y certainly makes a strong case. However, its premium pricing, lack of physical controls, and rivals catching up in performance pose real challenges.

Quick Summary of 2025 Tesla Model Y India

Exterior Design and Engineering – 5/10

The Tesla Model Y isn’t your conventional SUV; rather, it is more of a crossover with coupe-like styling. The design is futuristic yet polarising, prioritising aerodynamics over aesthetics.

• Ground clearance: 167mm (global spec)
• Design highlights: flush door handles, LED split headlamps with connected DRLs, 19-inch aero wheels.
• Storage: A large 938-litre boot (expandable to 2,100 litres with seats folded) plus a 117-litre frunk.
• Colours available in India: Stealth Grey (standard), Pearl White, Diamond Black, Glacier Blue, Ultra Red, and Quicksilver (all paid options).

While the practicality and storage are outstanding, the styling may not appeal to those seeking a conventional SUV presence.

Interior Space and Comfort – 8/10

Tesla’s cabin philosophy is minimalist and futuristic.

• Dominant feature: A 15.4-inch central touchscreen controls nearly all vehicle functions.
• Rear passenger experience: A dedicated second screen offers HVAC controls, video playback, and apps.
• Spaciousness: Ample legroom and headroom, even at the rear, with excellent under-seat foot space.
• Seating: Supportive front seats, comfortable cushioning at the rear, but no sunblinds (even for the massive glass roof).
• Cabin materials: Good quality overall but not quite premium enough for the price point.

Tesla succeeds in delivering space and practicality but falls slightly short on perceived luxury.

Features and Safety – 8/10

The Model Y excels in features but suffers from a lack of physical buttons, which many drivers will find inconvenient.

• Key features: Google Maps-based navigation, 9 airbags, wireless phone chargers, heated/ventilated seats, ambient lighting, panoramic glass roof.
• Safety tech: Lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, ADAS features, Sentry Mode (records suspicious activity), Pet Mode (keeps AC on when unattended).
• Unique extras: Tesla’s Toybox apps (games, sketch pad, romantic fireplace mode, emissions mode).
• Autopilot: Available as a Rs 6 lakh option in India but limited until regulations allow.

The touchscreen UI is one of the best in the industry fast, crisp, and intuitive but the reliance on menus for basic tasks remains frustrating.

Range and Charging – 8/10

Tesla’s range figures remain one of its strongest suits.

• Model Y RWD (63kWh): 500 km WLTP range.
• Model Y Long Range RWD (83kWh): 622 km WLTP range.
• Charging standards in India: CCS2 port instead of NACS.
• Charging speeds:
  • 175kW DC (RWD)
  • 250kW DC (Long Range)
• Supercharging: 267 km added in just 15 minutes at Tesla Superchargers (to be rolled out in India).

While real-world figures may vary, Tesla’s efficiency and regen braking ensure slower range depletion compared to rivals.

Performance and Refinement – 8/10

• Power: 299hp (RWD), 340hp (Long Range).
• 0–100 km/h: 5.9s (RWD), 5.6s (Long Range).
• Top speed: 201 km/h.

The Model Y offers smooth, predictable performance rather than blistering acceleration. With two regen modes and two drive modes (Standard and Chill), it balances performance and efficiency. While rivals like BYD Sealion 7 and Volvo EC40 are quicker, the Tesla feels refined and user-friendly.

Ride and Handling – 7/10

Ride quality is firm but improves at higher speeds.

• Suspension: Double-wishbone (front) and multi-link (rear), tuned for stability.
• Handling: Light and quick steering with minimal feedback.
• Comfort: Solid highway composure, but at low speeds, potholes and rough patches feel clunky.

For Indian roads, the firmness may be a drawback compared to more adaptive rivals.

Price and Verdict – 6/10

The Model Y is priced at:

• Rs 60 lakh (RWD)
• Rs 68 lakh (Long Range RWD)

At this price point, Tesla faces stiff competition from the Kia EV6, Volvo EC40, and BYD Sealion 7, which offer better performance, interiors, or AWD options at similar or lower prices.

Verdict:

• Strengths: Cutting-edge tech, spacious interior, long range, brand appeal.
• Weaknesses: Expensive pricing, limited physical controls, firm low-speed ride.

While Tesla fans will flock to it for its global reputation and unique tech, value-conscious buyers may prefer better-rounded rivals.

FAQs

Q1. What are the variants of the Tesla Model Y in India?

Two variants: RWD (63kWh, 500km range) and RWD Long Range (83kWh, 622km range).

Q2. How fast does the Tesla Model Y charge?

Using a Tesla Supercharger, it can add 267 km of range in 15 minutes.

Q3. What safety features does the Model Y offer?

It comes with 9 airbags, ADAS, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, Sentry Mode, and Pet Mode.

Q4. Does the Model Y support Autopilot in India?

Autopilot is available as an option but will only be enabled once Indian regulations approve its use.

Q5. What is the price of the Tesla Model Y in India?

Rs 60 lakh for the RWD and Rs 68 lakh for the Long Range (ex-showroom).

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