How does the Tesla Model Y stack up against other all-electric SUVs?

Tesla has started deliveries of the much-anticipated Model Y. This time, however, Tesla's newest vehicle isn't the first of its kind. While the Model S and X had the benefit of being (basically) the only luxury electric vehicle options when they launched, the Tesla Model Y is entering the electric SUV market which already has some cars occupying the space — and many more planning to join the fray. Let's take a look at how Model Y stacks up against some of these competitors. 

First, however, it's worthwhile to pit Model Y against its smaller (albeit older) sibling, Model 3. Why? Model Y shares a lot with Model 3, around 70% of the same parts to be exact. While photos don't always show too much of a size difference between the two, a look at the measurements given via the owner's manual does show that there's an appreciable difference in size between the two.

The Model Y motors, batteries, and most associated parts will be taken directly from the Model 3 so the Y will also be able to take advantage of the 250 kW charge rate provided by Tesla’s Supercharger network. The industry-leading network currently has about 16,500 chargers with their new V3 chargers starting now to roll out worldwide.

Currently, there's both a Long Range version and Performance version of the Model Y, starting at $52,990 and $60,990 respectively. Upon the unveiling, a Standard Range version was also announced that would start at $39,000 but will not hit the streets until later on. All of the versions feature 68 cubic ft of cargo space with an option to have seven seats — if you’re willing to wait a bit.

Overall, within the Tesla family of EVs, the Model Y seems to be a good choice for someone who wants to have more space than what’s provided by the Model 3 (and similarly sized vehicles) but doesn’t want to commit to the size or price of a Model X.

Okay, so how does Tesla's Model Y stack up against other all-electric SUVs out there? Let's check the charts...

Topline Overview

Tesla Model Y

Hyundai Kona Electric 

Jaguar I-Pace

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Source: EVBite; Note: Keep in mind that many of the specs listed above are “targeted specs” that are variable based on changes to the OEMs specs via their respective websites — so do expect the numbers to vary slightly upon publishing of this article and (later) during the actual release/launch of the car(s) downstream.

In addition, there are plenty of other electric crossovers out there. These include the Kia Soul EV, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Audi Q4 e-tron, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, Nissan Ariya, Volkswagen ID.4, and Fisker Ocean. However, it might be a stretch to call them true Tesla Model Y competitors. Why? We simply don't have enough information about them to make any meaningful comparisons at this point. 

As evidenced here, this could soon become quite a crowded market. While the Tesla Model S, X, and 3 benefited from little to no competition at the time of their releases, Model Y buyers will have an ample amount of alternatives out there.

That said, the Model Y still wins big when it comes to value — the range (and performance) offered by Tesla is still superior to other vehicle makes based on their respective price points. Another key advantage for Model Y is its ever-improving technology via Tesla's game-changing OTA software updates. And let's not forget the Silicon Valley automaker's industry-leading Autopilot capabilities. Oh, and there's also the company's massive (ever-growing) Supercharger network.

In any event, it's healthy to see some solid EV competition coming to the SUV segment. The sooner the industry goes electric, the better.

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An earlier version of this article appeared on EVBite. EVBite is an electric vehicle specific news site dedicated to keeping consumers up-to-date on any developments in the ever-expanding EV landscape.