With Tesla discontinuing the iconic Model S and Model X, while simultaneously expanding the Model 3 and Model Y lineup with multiple variants, understanding the current range of Tesla vehicles can be confusing - especially for new owners.

In this article, we'll break down every Tesla model currently available (excluding the Cybertruck), explain the differences between each variant, and walk you through their key features, specifications, and intended use cases. By the end, you'll have a much clearer understanding of which Tesla is which and what sets them apart.

And if you prefer a visual presentation, we also have a dedicated YouTube video:

Model Y

Model Y Standard

The first variant of the Model Y that we are going to look at is the bare bone Model Y Standard. This is currently the most basic among the Tesla’s SUVs and it is the cheapest as well - exactly $39,990 USD. 

It comes equipped with a 60 kWh usable LFP battery pack and, according to Tesla, offers up to 534 km of WLTP range. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.2 sec which, of course, is a bit slow.

In the United States, the Model Y Standard is available in both RWD and AWD configurations. Choosing the all-wheel-drive version reduces the rated range to 473 km and it costs $41,990 USD.

The suspension system uses conventional passive shock absorbers, which provide consistent damping characteristics regardless of the driving conditions. Compared to adaptive suspension, the ride is generally firmer and stiffer, as the dampers cannot adjust their behavior in real time.

Of course, to make the vehicle more affordable, Tesla also had to remove some hardware.

From the outside, the vehicle no longer features the front and rear LED light bars. The frunk has also been redesigned, making it slightly deeper but narrower than before. The audio system has also been reduced to a 7-speaker system.

Moving into the interior, there also have been a few changes. These include the removal of the physical seat adjustment buttons, the center console, the rear touchscreen used to control climate settings, the ambient lighting, and the panoramic glass roof. Also, the seats are no longer leather and there is no seat ventilation. 

 

Model Y Juniper Premium

If the entry-level Model Y isn't quite what you're looking for, you can step up to the Model Y Juniper Premium, which is available in three variants:

RWD - $45,990 USD

AWD - $49,990 USD

Performance - $57,990 USD

 

All three variants are equipped with a 79 kWh usable NMC battery pack. However, their official WLTP ranges and acceleration differ:

Model Y Juniper Premium (RWD): 609 km WLTP range; 0-100 km/h in 5.6 sec.

Model Y Juniper Premium (AWD): 600 km WLTP range; 0-100 km/h in 4.8 sec.

Model Y Juniper Performance: 580 km WLTP range; 0-100 km/h in in 3.5 sec.

So, what do you get for the additional $5,000 compared to the Standard model?

- Longer driving range

- Improved suspension

- Improved performance

- Panoramic glass roof

- Ambient interior lighting

- Premium leather seats

- Physical seat adjustment controls

- Ventilated front seats

- Rear touchscreen

- Center console with additional storage

- 15-speaker premium audio system with subwoofer

- Heated second-row seats

But that’s not all. If you reside in Asia, you probably at least heard of the AWD Model Y L / Model YYY. What’s extra special about this vehicle is that it has a slightly longer base, allowing for a third row of seats, bringing the overall count to 6. 

The audio system is also upgraded to 18 speakers and 1 subwoofer.

In terms of suspension systems, things are becoming more interesting.

Traditional mechanical dampers react passively to suspension movement as they absorb impacts from the road. In contrast, the Model Y Long Range and Model Y Performance are equipped with an electronically controlled suspension system that actively adjusts the damping force in real time based on driving conditions.

The reason for this difference lies in how the dampers are constructed. Conventional dampers use fixed valves that regulate the flow of hydraulic oil, meaning their damping characteristics remain essentially constant.

Adaptive dampers, on the other hand, use electronically controlled valves that continuously adjust the oil flow based on input from the vehicle's sensors. By opening wider or narrowing in real time, they can instantly soften or stiffen the suspension to match the current driving conditions.

This allows the system to also adapt the suspension characteristics to the selected driving mode. For example, Comfort mode uses softer damping to better absorb bumps and uneven road surfaces, resulting in a smoother ride. Sport mode increases damping stiffness, reducing body roll and improving stability at higher speeds, making it better suited for sport driving. The trade-off is a firmer ride and a sharper, more aggressive steering feel.

Model 3

Model 3 Highland (Standard)

Now let's take a look at the sedan in Tesla's current lineup - the Model 3 Highland. We'll start with the entry-level Standard version.

Like the Model Y Standard, it is the most affordable variant, starting at $36,990 USD. It comes equipped with a 60 kWh LFP battery pack, offering up to 534 km of WLTP range it does 0-100 km/h.

Unlike the Model Y, however, the Standard Model 3 shares most of its features with the Premium variants. Aside from the smaller battery, rear-wheel drive, and a few performance differences, there are very few equipment changes between the models.

However, once you step inside, the differences become more noticeable. The Standard Model 3 does not include ambient interior lighting, a rear touchscreen, or ventilated front seats. The audio system is also downgraded to a 7-speaker setup.

Model 3 Highland (Premium)

Of course, if the Standard variant is too bare bone for you, there are also the Premium models. Just like with the Model Y, they come with bigger 79 kWh NMC battery packs, regardless of whether you go with RWD, AWD, or Performance. Once again, however, the differences in ranges are significant.

Model 3 Highland Premium (RWD): 750 km WLTP

Model 3 Highland Premium (AWD): 660 km WLTP

Model 3 Highland Performance: 571 km WLTP

 

The difference in prices is also something worth considering: 

Model 3 Highland Premium (RWD): $42,490 USD

Model 3 Highland Premium (AWD): $47,490 USD

Model 3 Highland Performance: $54,990 USD

In addition to the larger battery and increased performance, all Premium variants include the features missing from the Standard model, such as ambient interior lighting, ventilated front seats, the rear touchscreen, and the upgraded audio system (9 speakers for the RWD/ AWD Premium and 15 speakers + 2 subwoofers for the Performance model).

The Verdict

So, after going breaking down each vehicle, the question remains - should you go for the Model Y or the Model 3? The basic variants or the Premium ones? Which one brings the best value for the money?

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

If maximizing range is your top priority, the Model 3 Highland Premium RWD is arguably the best option, offering up to 750 km of WLTP range.

On the other hand, you may simply prefer the higher seating position and more spacious cabin of an SUV. If you have a family or regularly carry bulky cargo, the Model Y Juniper is likely the better fit. It offers up to 76 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to approximately 24 cubic feet in the Model 3, making it significantly more practical for everyday use.

Or maybe you are looking for something more budget-friendly and you could skip on some luxurious features. In this case, the Standard variants might be right you valley.

Or you are an adrenaline junkie and high speeds and maneuverability are all that matters in which case the Performance models are for you.

It’s all contextual, and each vehicle has its own merits in specific situations. 

Or...

You could buy a Premium Model 3 or Model Y... or you could upgrade your bare bone Standard Tesla with S3XY Products.

Want the sleek look of ambient lighting? The S3XY Strip adds customizable RGB lighting, along with smart alerts like blind spot indication, charging animations, speed limit warnings, and much more.

Missing the physical seat controls or the rear touchscreen for climate controls? With the S3XY Buttons, you can assign over 200 different actions and control many of your Tesla's features with a single press.

And that's only scratching the surface of what our products can do.

If you'd like to learn more, check out the product pages on our website.