Tesla Model Y Owner Shares Initial Impressions: Full Self-Driving and Handling Shine

A new Tesla owner is sharing their initial experiences with a Model Y, highlighting impressive features like Full Self-Driving (FSD) and refined handling. After two weeks and nearly 800 miles, the owner finds much to love, including the vehicle's interior space and entertainment system, while noting minor points for improvement.

Key Takeaways

• Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) has shown noticeable improvements in just two weeks, adapting to road conditions.

• The Model Y's handling is praised for its ability to hug turns, offering an engaging driving experience.

• Interior storage, including the frunk and under-floor compartments, is a significant improvement over previous vehicles.

• The Tesla Theater and sound system enhance charging stops and overall time spent in the car.

• Minor critiques include the diamond black paint showing dirt quickly and a learning curve for the climate control system.

A Deep Dive into the Tesla Model Y Experience

The owner, who recently transitioned from a Ford Bronco Sport, has driven their Model Y Long Range All-Wheel-Drive for 783 miles in two weeks. They report a generally positive experience, finding it difficult to identify significant dislikes so early in ownership.

Full Self-Driving Capabilities

One of the standout features for the owner is Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. They use it daily and have observed its rapid development. A notable instance involved FSD's improved navigation of an "Except Right Turn" stop sign. Initially, the car came to a complete stop, but a few days later, it proceeded cautiously without stopping, demonstrating a more appropriate response.

Handling and Ride Quality

The refined suspension of the new Model Y has also impressed the owner. Coming from a larger SUV, they appreciate how the car handles turns, describing it as a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. The owner even humorously suggests they might prefer driving the car to having the car drive them.

Interior Space and Entertainment

Storage is another area where the Model Y excels. The owner found the cargo space, including the frunk and the additional storage under the trunk floor, to be ample, surpassing their previous SUV. The Tesla Theater and the car's sound system have also become favorite features, transforming charging stops into quality time for the couple, allowing them to watch movies or shows together.

Minor Criticisms

While overwhelmingly positive, the owner did mention a couple of minor points. The diamond black paint, while attractive, tends to get dirty quickly, requiring frequent cleaning. Additionally, the climate control system, particularly the air vent design, has a slight learning curve, with the owner sometimes needing higher fan speeds to feel the air effectively. Their fiancée has also noted that the airflow can sometimes be directed at her when she's already cold.

Despite these minor adjustments, the owner's initial impression of the Tesla Model Y is highly favorable, emphasizing the advanced technology and driving dynamics as key strengths.