Tesla’s Most Affordable New Model Y Variant Also Has The Longest Range

Tesla North America recently launched a new variant of the new Model Y. The vehicle offers the most affordable price and the longest range in the lineup. This combination of affordability and extended range positions the new Model Y variant as a compelling option for EV buyers.

The New Tesla Model Y Variant

Named the Tesla Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), the recently launched vehicle starts at $44,990 before incentives, according to Tesla North America in a post on X. That’s $4,000 less than the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which is priced at $48,990 before incentives. 

The Model Y Long Range RWD offers an EPA-estimated range of 357 miles per charge, a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds, and a top speed of 125 mph, while the Model Y Long Range AWD provides 327 miles per charge, a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, and the same top speed. 

Unlike the Cybertruck Long Range RWD, which is a stripped-down version of its AWD counterpart, the Model Y Long Range RWD matches the equipment of the AWD variant, with the difference lying solely in their electric motors—one for the RWD, two for the AWD.

Will the Model Y Long Range RWD Be Popular?

The new Model Y variant is likely to attract strong interest, being the most affordable version of the revamped vehicle and thus, a likely top pick for budget-conscious buyers. With the $7,500 federal tax credit, its effective price drops to around $37,490, making its long 357-mile range an added bonus. 

Tesla also offers an RWD variant of the Model Y from its Shanghai and Berlin factories. However, these vehicles are equipped with a Standard Range battery that features just about 260 miles of EPA-estimated range. Tesla’s new Model Y Long Range RWD variant strikes a balance between cost and capability, potentially broadening the company’s appeal in the competitive EV market in the United States and territories supplied by Gigafactory Texas and the Fremont Factory.

EV.com recognizes Tesla’s efforts to make EVs more accessible with the new Model Y Long Range RWD. You can explore the best offers on Tesla vehicles and other EVs we have on our listings here.