Tesla Model Y is an affordable offering by the company, whereas Model X is more on the luxury and premium side. Although the choice between Model X vs. Model Y totally depends on your budget, it is still interesting to know about the differences between these models.
This article will present a detailed comparison between the Tesla Model X and Tesla Model Y. We will cover all the differences and similarities between the two models.
So, without any further ado, let’s get right into it!
An Overview of Tesla Model X Vs. Model Y
Tesla Model X is an electric crossover SUV that offers exciting performance and swift acceleration. It is marked by a long-range battery pack and superfast charging. It is one of the more exhilarating high-end models in the catalog of Tesla.
Model Y, on the other hand, is an affordable electric crossover that shares many trademark Tesla features with Model X. But there are more differences between Tesla Model X and Model Y than similarities. All these features will be covered in the article.
Differences Between Tesla Model X and Model Y
In this section, I’ll uncover all the differences between the Tesla Model X and Model Y.
1. Pricing and Trims
Tesla Model X is offered in three trims. The basic trim is known as the Long Range Model X. After that is the Standard Range trim, and finally, the most exciting trim, Model X Plaid. Here is the pricing of each of these trims of Model X.
- Long Range: $81,630
- Standard Range: $90,130
- Model X Plaid: $110,130
Similarly, the Tesla Model Y is also offered in three trims. The basic trim is known as the Standard Range. After that, there is a long-range trim, and for swift acceleration, you can choose the Performance trim. Here is the pricing of each of these trims of Model Y.
- Standard Range: $46,630
- Long Range: $52,130
- Performance: $56,130
As you can see, each trim of the Tesla Model X is almost twice as expensive as compared to its counterpart of Model Y.
2. Motor Power and Performance
The base variants of Model X are laced with dual motors and are capable of producing up to 670 hp. They can go from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Model X Plaid, on the other side, is laced with three motors instead of two. Thanks to these three motors, X Plaid can produce an enormous 1,020 hp and breach the 60 mph mark in less than 2.5 seconds.
On the other hand, the base trims of Model Y with dual-motor arrangement can manage only 384 hp and a 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds. The Performance trim of Model Y can churn out a healthy 456 hp, which is still less than the output of Model X base trims. However, the Model Y Performance trim can go from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, which is slightly faster.
Hence, the Tesla Model X is way more powerful in comparison to the Model Y. Also, Model X boasts a much shorter 0-60 time than Model Y.
3. Range and MPGe
The Standard trim of Model X can go up to 269 miles on a single charge, whereas the Long Range trim can go up to 348 miles. It has a combined MPGe rating of 102. This puts it on the list of electric SUVs with the longest range. The Model X Plaid compromises some range for the extra speed boost. Still, the top-of-the-line Model X Plaid can manage 333 miles between charges.
On the other hand, the rear-wheel drive Tesla Model Y can give you a range of 260 miles, while Long Range Model Y boasts an exceptional range of 330 miles. The Long Range trim has a rating of 112 MPGe combined. Lastly, the Performance trim will last 303 miles with added performance, whereas the MPGe rating drops to 106.
Tesla Model X offers an 8-10% longer range as compared to Model Y for respective trims. However, Model Y boasts a higher MPGe rating.
4. Battery Capacity and Charging Time
Tesla Model X comes with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery pack across Long Range and X Plaid trims. It is laced with a 250 kW DC fast charging capability. At a Tesla Supercharger, you can add up to 175 miles of range in just 15 minutes. At the same time, the charging time for the Tesla Model X at a home station and commercial charging point comes to 30 and 7 hours, respectively.
Tesla Model Y, on the other hand, is offered with two battery packs. The base trim comes with a 68 kWh battery pack, while Long Range and Performance trims boast a battery capacity of 81 kWh. You can add up to 162 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger. However, the charging times for Model X at home and commercial ports are 24 and 6 hours, respectively.
Both Model X and Y are laced with fast charging, but Model X comes with a larger battery pack. Thus, Model X takes longer to charge. However, it can add more miles in a shorter time.
5. Interior and Cabin Space
Tesla Model X boasts a lavish interior loaded with high-end features. It doesn’t feel as claustrophobic as other SUVs in this category. Thanks to the longer wheelbase, Model X has a roomy cabin. Model X offers 60, 52, and 28 cubic feet of volume to the front, 2nd row, and 3rd row occupants, respectively. Additionally, the Tesla Model X offers a cargo volume of 88 cu-ft.
Tesla Model Y has a very basic interior. It is slightly smaller as compared to the Model X. It has a total passenger cabin volume of 106 cubic feet as opposed to 140 cubic feet of Model X. The cargo volume with 2nd and 3rd-row seats folded comes to about 72 cubic feet, which is quite decent on its own but slightly less than what Model X offers.
So, the Model X has a more lavish and modern-looking interior. It is also more roomy and spacious. Also, Model X offers generous cargo space, which is way more than Model Y.
6. Exterior Design and Dimensions
Tesla Model X has a very futuristic exterior design. It looks bold and exciting. The wheelbase of Model X is about 116.7 inches, whereas the length, width, and height of the Tesla Model X are 198.3, 78.7, and 66 inches, respectively. The thing I love the most about the exterior of the Tesla Model X is its headlight, which gives it a very distinctive look.
Tesla Model Y is a standard-looking SUV. However, the exterior shape and curves are quite similar to that of Model Y. It has been made to look average on purpose to entice buyers into admiring the beauty of Model X. Model Y has a wheelbase of 113.8 inches, while the length, width, and height of the Tesla Model Y are 187, 75.6, and 64 inches, respectively.
Hence, you can see that Model X enjoys bolder and better looks. Model X has an extended wheelbase and a slightly bigger structure.
Similarities Between Tesla Model X and Model Y
In addition to a variety of differences between Tesla Model X and Model Y, there are some similarities between the two SUVs.
This section will cover the similarities between Tesla Model X and Model Y.
1. 7-Seater Capacity
Tesla Model X and Model Y are both offered in 7-seater configurations. The long-range variants of Model X and Model Y are available with an option to add 3rd row of seating. You just need to pay an additional $3,000 for adding an extra row of seating. However, the 3rd row of seating in Model X and Model Y are not designed for full-grown adults.
The third row of Model Y can seat individuals up to a height of 5’5”, whereas the legroom and headroom in Model X are slightly generous. Individuals with heights up to 5’7” can comfortably sit in the 3rd row of the Tesla Model X.
2. High-End Features and Safety
Autopilot is a trademark feature suite of Tesla. It comes standard on all Tesla Models, including the Model X and Model Y. Some of the enhanced and advanced systems might differ between the two cars, but as a whole, the system remains the same.
Also, the safety features and systems of Model X and Model Y are similar. Both Model X and Model Y have scored the highest possible five-star rating in the independent crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
3. Exterior Design and Aerodynamic Efficiency
As discussed earlier, the shapes and curves on the exterior of Model X and Model Y are quite similar. You can only tell apart between Model X and Model Y by looking at the headlights, taillights, or front grille design. Otherwise, they look quite similar.
Due to the similar nature of the exterior, both Model X and Model Y enjoy exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. Model X and Model Y have an aerodynamic drag of 0.24 only, making these cars one of the most aerodynamically efficient vehicles.
4. Charging Infrastructure
The charging capability and infrastructure of Model X and Model Y are another similarity. Both Model X and Model Y are capable of DC fast charging at 250 kW of maximum power. Differences in the charging time are due to different battery sizes and not due to different charging capabilities.
You can choose to enjoy the exclusive rates and benefits of Tesla’s Supercharger network if you own either the Model X or Model Y. So, that’s another similarity.
Which One is Better? Tesla Model Y Vs. Model X
Here is the short answer,
Tesla Model X is definitely better than the Tesla Model Y.
But not that much. If you look at the expensive price tag of Model X, then suddenly, all the advantages it has over Model Y will seem extravagant.
But it is a point to applaud Tesla, where they have made an exceptionally affordable electric SUV, in the form of Model Y, that shares many features of the high-end Model X.
At the same time, Tesla needs to create a clear distinction between a high-end Model and a starter pack. But it’s all good if you’re buying Model Y.
The problem is for Model X owners who aren’t getting the same cost-to-benefit ratio as the owners of Model Y. But in the end, it comes down to personal choice and preference.
So, there aren’t any wrong decisions when choosing a car!
