‘Bask in its silent intensity’ — Kelley Blue Book reviews the Tesla Model Y [Video]

Vehicle valuation and automotive research company Kelley Blue Book (KBB) was pleased to get their hands on a Tesla Model Y. Even though it's not their own review car, KBB was able to borrow an owner's Model Y — someone who recently took delivery from Tesla. In turn, the team at KBB reviewed a top-spec Performance variant of the compact electric SUV. 

Above: Tesla's Model Y (Source: EVANNEX; Photo by Casey Murphy)

So what were some key takeaways from KBB's review? Once inside, reviewer Micah Muzio says the experience is that of, "Extreme simplicity. Take that, Scandinavia. The interior is roomier than the Model 3 because the roof is higher. In back, the rear seats recline unlike in the Model 3. Boy, that’s comfy. Seated behind myself, I fit great. [And] the Model Y’s glass roof is cool."

What about the user experience via Model Y's 15-inch touchscreen? Muzio says, "Tesla has done an exemplary job arranging the essential functions. Good thing because, besides the seats, nearly all aspects of the vehicle are controlled through here. Like in the Model 3 [though], the steering wheel controls are used to adjust the mirrors, move the steering wheel, and control the audio system... It all just works."

Above: Tesla Model Y review by Kelley Blue Book (YouTube: Kelley Blue Book). 

How about the driving experience? According to Muzio, "While we’re in motion, I’ll note that the Model Y drives a lot like a Model 3. A low-mounted battery pack means a low center of gravity. Helping the Y trace corners with tenacious competence. And just like the Model 3, the steering feels stable driving in a straight line but has a sporting quick ratio off-center."

The Model Y's performance was definitely a high point in KBB's review. Muzio continues, "Then there’s the acceleration. If you don’t already know, electric torque can be fun. Let’s see if it’s fun... Yup. Smooth relentless thrust is your reward for driving electric. Bask in its silent intensity."

Above: Another look at Tesla's Model Y (Source: EVANNEX; Photo by Casey Murphy)

Does the Model Y have some real competition? According to Muzio, "Mustang Mach E is still a mystery but depending on when you’re watching this it’s probably worth a look. As an alternative, you might also consider the Jaguar I-PACE, or hey, how about the Tesla Model 3? It’s $4,000 cheaper than the Model Y and quite similar. Or maybe spring for a Model X if you need more space and want to dazzle children at daycare." Sure, the X's falcon wing doors attract plenty of attention but the Y's overall value (arguably) still wins the day.

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Written by: Iqtidar Ali. An earlier version of this article was originally published on Tesla Oracle.