The New Model Y RWD 110 shows us why Tesla is one of the OGs of the EV world.
It is not until you get back into a Tesla that you begin to realise how much you’ve taken things for granted and appreciate everything this veritable OG of EVs has to offer.
After three-odd years (since the launch of the Model Y in Singapore), we’re back in the New Model Y – yes, “New” is part of its nomenclature – the New Model Y RWD 110, to be exact, which is a Cat A COE model specific to Singapore.
If you’re wondering, the “110” in the model name refers to the car’s 110kW (about 150hp) output, which allows it to fall within the Cat A COE class. If you're wondering, this Cat A variant will sit alongside the Long Range AWD dual-motor and the regular RWD (255kW) models.
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It gets fresh looks with an aerodynamically-styled nose that sits lower than before and cherry-topped by a lightbar (a nod to the Cybertruck and the recent Cybercab Robotaxi).
At the back, we particularly like the brand’s tasteful interpretation of a lightbar, which uses a downlight strip to illuminate the “Tesla” applique.
See also: Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Drive Review : Minimalist Cheek
However, even with the redesigned tailgate and front, the New Model Y’s silhouette is always instantly recognisable as a Tesla, which is more than can be said for a lot of new brands.
Having driven many of the offerings from the new EV brands since Tesla first launched the Model Y here three years ago, it isn’t hard to see why its fans still regard the Model Y crossover as such a complete EV.
Some like to liken the Tesla brand to Apple. Both possess a huge cult appeal, an inter-connected eco-system, an engaging and easy to use UI/UX, intelligent design, as well as features you’ll actually use.
The last item can’t be overstated enough. Many new EV brands talk up quilted massage seats, freezer units and everything but the kitchen sink, and if you’re the sort to be impressed by this razzle-dazzle, more power to you.
EV buyers fall into two broad camps: tech enthusiasts who pore over specifications and absolutely need the latest everything, versus traditional car enthusiast buyers – like this writer – who recognise such cars as transport and errand runners, and do not require anything extra beyond the features that aid its function.
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We also appreciate the fact that it never feels like Tesla is throwing random features at the wall to see what sticks to pander to hair-splitting spec-sheet specialists.
Nevertheless, it isn’t difficult to notice that a lot of the EV newcomers draw inspiration from Tesla’s template, but the way in which some of these are executed shows a big gap between ideal and reality.
As far as Tesla is concerned, there’s a method to its minimalism that works perfectly in tandem with its user interface. After all, when you already have a spartan cabin, the last thing you want is to fuss around with the touchscreen looking for the controls to essential functions like aircon vents or to adjust the rear seats.
True to form, the New Model Y’s cabin is cleanly styled, but it’s never a burden to quickly access your favourite functions via the touchscreen. It’s all down to the finesse of Tesla’s execution and how intuitive the entire user experience is, especially if you have to quickly switch between different on-screen elements.
Ultimately, this results in a calm and refined commuting experience (and never jarring), because one is not frazzled by frustrating UI and/or in-car assistants that can’t understand your spoken instructions.
You don’t have to sync your phone with the car (and sully it with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay), because as a driver, you plug yourself into the car and Tesla’s sublime and seamless native user experience.
Most crucially, the brand defines what you need and how you access it, but you know what? I never found myself wanting for anything more over the duration of the test-drive.
There are intelligent nuances to the New Model Y’s interior design that don’t strike you until you experience one of its Chinese contemporaries. For instance, the inner door release buttons are positioned apart from the window controls, so there’s no danger of accidentally engaging the door when you want to lower/raise the window.
The tech in Tesla is never gimmicky and is engineered to uplift and facilitate one’s use of the car – some even say Tesla’s ever-enhanced suite of driving technology helps it take bigger steps towards full autonomous motoring.
Best of all, the big changes take place below the surface and there’s never a need for Tesla to shout about the improvements, because the driver will quickly notice them. These span the tangible – such as better quality cabin materials and the wraparound, multicolour ambient cabin lighting – and stretches to the new car’s tauter dynamics and enhanced chassis rigidity.
While some of you may initially grapple with the absence of a transmission shifter in the New Model Y, trust us when we say using the touchscreen-based “shifter” becomes second nature very quickly.
Besides, the “Auto Shift” feature seamlessly shifts between D and R when the car senses you’re making multi-point manoeuvres – such as parking or three-point turns – and intelligently engages the correct gear for your needs.
On the move, the ride is nicely composed and there’s a sharp edge to the New Model Y’s dynamics that should please owners who prefer that sporty dimension to their beasts of burden.
We’re not big on killer kW figures for commuter cruisers, and the Cat A New Model Y’s 110kW (150hp) is not only adequate for swift and smooth progress without the discomfort of a heart-in-mouth acceleration, but attracts a lower road tax to boot.
Of note is the New Model Y's OPD (One Pedal Drive), which is seriously impressive and one of the best in the business in terms of feel and fluidity.
The rear-seats can be actuated either via the controls in the boot area or the front touchscreen to fold and unfold (either together, or in parts), which helps to quickly prep the rear stowage area for large loads.
There’s a massive covered compartment in the front centre console that can accommodate surprisingly large items.
Also, the frunk can perform multiple duties, as basic luggage storage or filled with ice to serve as a cooler box for drinks.
Rear passengers aren’t left out in the cold either, and enjoy the use of a new 8-inch touchscreen that operates the climate control, gaming and AV features. The display also supports dual Bluetooth device connectivity and boasts a high-powered rear charging system with dual USB outlets. Unfortunately, it is fixed in place and cannot be detached for better mobility.
However, we understand that Tesla’s “closed” and cohesive eco-system or brand image may not be for everyone, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Tesla has always marched to the beat of its own music, which is exactly why it leads and never follows.
We’re not just talking about leading in terms of basic sales metrics either. Rather, this OG of EVs continues to impress in the effortless way its EVs are seamless for anyone to operate, smooth to drive and are recognisably Tesla.
Besides, like the great Android versus Apple debate, it’s never about which is better than the other, but always about choices, so Y not?
New Tesla Model Y RWD 110kW
Battery: 62.5kWh, Lithium-Ion, RWD
System Power: 110kW
System Torque: 350Nm
0-100km/h: 9.6secs
Top speed: 201km/h
Range (WLTP): 466km
