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2021 Tesla Model Y: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Tesla Model Y is a light trim-change year, not a redesign. Its headline change is the brief addition of a Standard Range model with a single motor and rear-wheel drive.
About the 2021 Tesla Model Y
1st generation (2020-2024), second model year
Tesla positions the Model Y as the brand’s practical electric SUV: a taller, more family-friendly companion to the Model 3 with more cargo space, available seven-seat flexibility, and everyday usability without giving up quick acceleration. Its core appeal is strong electric range, quick charging, a minimalist cabin centered around a large touchscreen, and useful storage front and rear. For most shoppers, it is the Tesla that blends EV efficiency with small-SUV space best.
The Long Range is the everyday-focused version, pairing dual-motor all-wheel drive and a 326-mile EPA-estimated range with a 15-inch touchscreen and Autopilot driver assistance. Performance emphasizes quicker acceleration, a lowered suspension, stronger brakes, and Track Mode. The new Standard Range keeps the same screen-led cabin and flexible cargo space but uses rear-wheel drive and has a 244-mile EPA-estimated range.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Tesla added the Standard Range trim early in the model year. It uses a single electric motor, rear-wheel drive, and has a 244-mile EPA-estimated range; the Long Range and Performance powertrains otherwise carry over.
Structural
Tesla added optional third-row seating on eligible non-Performance versions. The underlying platform did not change.
2021 Tesla Model Y specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Dual AC Electric Motors | Dual AC Electric Motors | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Trunk/Cargo | 68 cu-ft | 68 cu-ft | 68 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.5 in | 40.5 in | 40.5 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 326 | 303 | 244 |
| MPGe Combined | 125 | 111 | 129 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2021 Tesla Model Y?
The main 2021 change was the brief addition of a Standard Range rear-wheel-drive trim. Tesla also added an optional third row on eligible non-Performance versions, while the Long Range and Performance models otherwise remained largely unchanged.
What is the 2021 Model Y Standard Range?
The 2021 Standard Range is the entry Model Y with a single electric motor, rear-wheel drive, and a 244-mile EPA-estimated range. It joined the lineup early in the model year and retained core features such as the 15-inch touchscreen, Autopilot driver assistance, heated front and second-row seats, and flexible cargo storage.
Does the 2021 Tesla Model Y have a third row?
Some 2021 Model Y vehicles have an optional third row. Tesla offered it on eligible non-Performance versions, so shoppers should confirm the seating layout of the individual used vehicle.
Is the 2021 Tesla Model Y a redesign?
No, the 2021 Model Y is not a redesign. It is the second model year of the first-generation Model Y, with trim and seating changes rather than a new platform, exterior, or infotainment system.
Does every 2021 Tesla Model Y have all-wheel drive?
No, not every 2021 Model Y has all-wheel drive. The Standard Range uses rear-wheel drive, while the Long Range and Performance versions use dual-motor all-wheel drive.
2021 Tesla Model Y Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Tesla Model Y.
4.4
2021 Tesla Model Y
(1,310 reviews)
“The car is amazing. It's very fast, it's for the person who loves technology. It's like driving an iPhone.”
“The Tesla Model Y is a fun vehicle to drive and exceeds expectations for a first-time electric vehicle owner.”
Sources
- tesla.com — Ownersmanual / 2020 2024 Modely / En Us
- tesla.com — 2020 2024 Modely / En Us / GUID 518C51C1 E9AC 4A68 AE12 07F4FF8C881E
- tesla.com — 2020 2024 Modely / En Us / GUID 64C3BD83 0089 41A2 B9DD 9CDC0212D6AE
- tesla.com — 2020 2024 Modely / En Us / GUID 3667D28B 5B3B 49CE A1C1 3D70AC60D9F6
- tesla.com — 2020 2024 Modely / En Us / GUID 92CA3DCA EDA3 4243 861E 2C770F5506FD
- tesla.com — 2020 2024 Modely / En Us / GUID DA920829 F1FA 44F9 8754 6D914C524A79