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U.S. News & World Reports often ranks vehicles to give consumers insight into which models provide the most value. The publication has announced its “best luxury electric SUV” winner. The winner may surprise many consumers. This electric Tesla SUV had a strange year because of supply issues and price fluctuations.

The 2022 Tesla Model Y is U.S. News’ best luxury electric SUV

Tesla once dominated the new electric vehicle market share. Today, the EV space is much more crowded. Automakers like BMW, Volvo, Audi, and more all offer luxury electric SUV models. The 2022 Tesla Model Y is U.S. News’ pick for the best luxury electric SUV. As the “global leader in quality rankings,” the publication is a trusted source. That being said, is the Model Y truly the best luxury electric SUV on the market?

The 2022 Tesla Model Y starts at $62,990. It is currently available in Long Range and Performance trims. The Long Range model gets an estimated 318 miles of driving range. It can go from 0-60 miles per hour in about 4.8 seconds.

The Model Y is quick and has great range. Tesla offers a Performance trim for drivers who want even more kick out of their EV. U.S. News & World Report champions the vehicle’s roomy interior and engaging driving dynamics. The Model Y also comes standard with plenty of advanced safety features.

The problem with the Tesla Model Y

A red 2022 Tesla Model Y electric SUV is driving.
The 2022 Tesla Model Y | Tesla

On paper, the Model Y seems like the perfect luxury electric SUV. The problem with the Tesla Model Y is that the electric SUV has become much harder to buy over the years. Tesla has struggled with supply issues, and the automaker is notorious for price fluctuations.

Tesla once offered a Model Y that was just as affordable as the popular Model 3. This electric SUV had less range than the current available trims, but its affordability made it a hit among consumers. Today, availability comes in waves for the luxury electric SUV. The fact that the Model Y’s most affordable trim was essentially phased out didn’t sit well with consumers. The automaker’s supply and delivery problems are also a sore point for potential Model Y buyers.

The 2022 Tesla Model Y is a great luxury electric SUV, but consumers have to jump through hoops to buy one. U.S. News‘ best luxury electric SUV has its perks, but it’s just too darn hard to buy for the average Joe, and that’s a problem. The automaker that produces quality luxury electric SUVs that are readily available will dominate that particular vehicle segment.

How does the Tesla Model Y compare to other electric SUVs?

A red 2022 Tesla Model Y is driving.
The 2022 Tesla Model Y | Tesla

The Tesla Model Y once competed with models like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The expensive electric SUV has priced itself out of the more competitive EV SUV segment and found its way to the luxury EV SUV segment. The Model Y has the speed and acceleration to compete, but how long can its interior stand against the interiors designed by automakers like BMW?

The Model Y is capable, but calling it luxurious may be a stretch. Is the Model Y truly a luxury SUV, or was it forced into this segment because of its high price?


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