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2023 Tesla Model Y: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2023 Tesla Model Y is the return of a base Standard trim below Long Range. It began the year with a lower-range AWD setup, then shifted to rear-wheel drive, while Long Range and Performance largely carried over.
About the 2023 Tesla Model Y
1st generation (2020-2024), fourth model year; running-update year before the 2025 redesign.
Tesla positions the Model Y as a practical electric family SUV with quick acceleration, a simple screen-based cabin, generous cargo room, and easy long-distance charging through the Supercharger network. Compared with traditional compact luxury SUVs, its pitch is less about ornate trim and more about everyday EV convenience: higher seating than a Model 3, lots of usable storage, optional third-row seating on some versions, and software-led controls. For most shoppers, it is Tesla’s utility-focused family vehicle.
The 2023 lineup spans the entry-level Standard, the dual-motor AWD Long Range, and the quicker Performance. All three have a 15-inch center touchscreen, heated seats, premium audio, and Tesla’s Basic Autopilot driver-assist suite. Performance adds a 3.5-second 0-60 mph time, upgraded brakes, lowered suspension, and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Tesla restored the Standard trim below Long Range. Early 2023 Standard models use a lower-range AWD setup, while later examples have rear-wheel drive; Long Range and Performance retain dual-motor AWD.
2023 Tesla Model Y specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Dual AC Electric Motors / AC Electric Motor | Dual AC Electric Motors | Dual AC Electric Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Trunk/Cargo | 76.2 cu-ft | 76.2 cu-ft | 76.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.5 in | 40.5 in | 40.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 7 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 279–283 | 330 | 303 |
| MPGe Combined | 123 | 122 | 111 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| 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 is the biggest change to the 2023 Tesla Model Y?
The biggest change is the return of the base Standard trim below Long Range. Tesla initially sold it with a lower-range AWD setup and later switched it to rear-wheel drive during the same model year.
Is the 2023 Tesla Model Y a redesign?
No. The 2023 Model Y is a running-update model with no major body, chassis, cabin-interface, or lineup-wide safety overhaul.
Are all 2023 Tesla Model Y versions all-wheel drive?
No. Long Range and Performance have dual-motor AWD, but later 2023 Standard models use rear-wheel drive. Earlier Standard examples from the same model year have AWD.
What changed from the 2022 Model Y to the 2023 Model Y?
The key difference is that the 2023 lineup restores a Standard trim below Long Range. Long Range and Performance remain broadly familiar, with no confirmed lineup-wide redesign or major hardware update.
How can shoppers tell 2023 Standard Model Y versions apart?
The drivetrain is the key distinction: early 2023 Standard examples have AWD, while later ones have rear-wheel drive. The exact configuration matters because Tesla changed the base model during the year.
2023 Tesla Model Y Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Tesla Model Y.
4.2
2023 Tesla Model Y
(1,518 reviews)
“Technology at your hands - true work of art from performance to comfort. Charging infrastructure makes up for lack of customer service from Tesla. Don't believe the catchy articles of “Tesla recalled… millions" or “I hear the battery dies and costs a lot". Do your own research, numbers don't lie when you take into consideration short term vs long term upkeep/maintenance costs.”
“Best first ev you can buy if you're wanting to go electric and not sure what to buy. Reliability for ev owners is paramount and Tesla delivers that overall.”