3 Reasons Some Drivers Think the Best-Selling SUV of 2023 Is a Hard Pass
The best-selling new vehicle on the market is an electric vehicle. It’s a Tesla small SUV that’s pretty pricey compared to internal combustion engine models. The Model Y is outselling iconic vehicles like the Toyota RAV4. There are plenty of reasons to get it. Here are some reasons to pass on the best-selling SUV of 2023.
Tesla Model Y: Best-selling SUV doesn’t fit every lifestyle
EV ownership can be incredibly practical and simplistic for drivers in largely populated cities with charging infrastructure in place. It’s a different story for drivers in, say, rural Kentucky or certain areas in the midwest with little to no access to reliable level 2 charging stations. Charging infrastructure in America has definitely improved over the past few years thanks to substantial investments from companies and the government. Though having driven several EVs in the inner city (The Bronx, NY), I would hate to imagine what the recharging experience is like in places with less access to reliable charging stations.
I have test-driven plenty of the latest and greatest electric vehicles on the market and experienced range anxiety in vehicles with nearly 300 miles of driving range. Why? Finding a reliable charging station that isn’t completely occupied can be difficult. Furthermore, despite advancements in technology, recharging a vehicle still isn’t as simple as gassing up an internal combustion engine vehicle.
One of the reasons that drivers think the Tesla Model Y is a hard pass is because it’s too complex to charge in their community. If Tesla continues to expand its huge supercharger network, the best-selling SUV of 2023 will be even more popular.
The Model Y is still too expensive for the average American driver
The Model Y is currently available in three configurations at the time of publishing.
| Model Y RWD | $43,990 |
| Model Y Long-Range | $48,490 |
| Model Y Performance | $52,490 |
The Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive is the most affordable of all Model Y trims. After the federal electric vehicle tax incentive, its starting price is closer to $36,490. Tesla’s small electric SUV provides great value for under $36,490, but its value proposition is incomparable to a gas SUV like the RAV4, which can last for over 14 years of ownership.
Electric vehicles are getting more affordable with time, but many drivers are still skeptical about the long-term value propositions of EV nameplates. Will they last for as long as internal combustion engine vehicles?
Tesla’s reputation is cause for concern for some drivers
Heavy is the head that wears the crown. Tesla should be acknowledged for its achievements in the EV space. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s plenty that the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, has done to tick off consumers. Whether it’s some of his brash statements or unfulfilled promises of certain vehicle capabilities, some drivers actively avoid the brand completely because of the antics associated with it. Electric vehicle reliability (or lack of it) is something else to consider when it comes to Tesla’s reputation.
Tesla makes some great electric vehicles, but not every driver is a fan of the brand. Furthermore, many drivers are actually scared of potential reliability issues they could encounter in a Tesla. The Model Y may be a hit in 2023, but not every driver is sold on the best-selling SUV of 2023.
Are you a fan of the popular small electric SUV, or is it overrated?
