Tesla Model Y Standard Trades Luxury For Lower Price, Review Finds

Tesla’s new entry-level Model Y Standard aims to make electric mobility more accessible, but not without a few trade-offs. The budget-friendly version, now available for order in Sweden at under 499,990 kronor, offers a simplified package built at Tesla’s Berlin-area Gigafactory.

A detailed review by Auto Week reveals that while the car maintains Tesla’s performance edge, it sacrifices much of the refinement that defines the brand’s higher-end variants.

Simplified design and stripped-down interior

According to Auto Week, the Model Y Standard embodies a “back to basics” philosophy. Externally, it lacks the signature light bar and front bumper slots found on the refreshed Model Y, making it visually plainer. Inside, Tesla has replaced synthetic leather with fabric upholstery and covered the panoramic glass roof with an interior liner to reduce costs, according to CarUp.

One notable drawback, reviewers said, is that seat adjustments can only be controlled via the infotainment system, a change that may frustrate some drivers. Despite these cuts, Auto Week acknowledged that the overall cabin remains functional and well-equipped for the price point.

Built on a rear-wheel-drive platform with an 18-inch wheel setup, the Model Y Standard retains Tesla’s familiar minimalist design language while prioritizing cost savings.

Reduced comfort but solid electric performance

While performance figures are modest at 0–100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h, Auto Week noted that the driving experience feels noticeably different from premium trims. The publication reported that Tesla appears to have reused the “old” suspension rather than fitting the updated adaptive dampers found in newer facelifted models.

The result, they said, is a ride that feels less refined and more rigid. That being said, the old Model Y did become the world’s best-selling car for two years in a row, so its suspension, while inferior to the Model Y Premium’s adaptive system, is more than adequate.

Still, with a 534 km WLTP range, 175 kW fast charging, and up to 1,600 kg of towing capacity, the Model Y Standard remains highly competitive within its price class. As Auto Week concluded, “This is an incredible electric car, which still surpasses anything you can get anywhere else at this price in terms of performance, space, and features.”

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