The ‘normal’ RWD version of the updated Tesla Model Y feels like just the right formula for one of the best-selling EVs out there.
Tesla may be a somewhat divisive company thanks to its rather controversial leader, but if you’ve ever driven their cars, you’ll discover that, objectively speaking, they are actually very well-rounded and capable for what they were made to do.
Nowhere is this more evident than on the Tesla Model Y, which is now one of the best-selling cars worldwide. The updated Model Y, introduced earlier in 2025, further boosted its appeal among Singaporeans with a specially-tuned version that qualified for a Category A COE.
But if you want a ‘regular’ Model Y that’s not been power-restricted, there is the standard RWD version that delivers the Tesla experience as it is meant to be.
Same Sharp Looks
Visually, there’s basically no difference between the different Model Y variants, regardless of power output. You get the same sleek and sharp design of the facelift, with the slim light bar across the front, and the distinctive rear lights reflecting off the name panel at the back.
Other than that, the styling is really nothing to shout about. If not for its unique illumination choice, the Model Y is a car that would blend in with traffic, along with all the other large SUVs populating our roads.
Similar Minimalism
Likewise, the interior of the Model Y RWD is almost identical to the lesser-powered version. You get the same minimalist setup, dominated by the large central touchscreen that houses everything, including key controls and info like the drive selector and speedometer.
For those unaccustomed to Tesla’s ways, the layout will take some getting used to. Thankfully though, the facelift has also brought back a much-needed physical control in the form of the indicator stalk, which replaces the button indicators of the pre-facelift Model Y.
The infotainment screen houses all manner of functionalities and gimmicks, like the ability to play games. Most of these are identical across the range, so I won’t go into detail.
The only difference between the RWD and the 110kW Cat A model here is that the RWD has a setting to adjust the level of acceleration, whether you want it to ‘Chill’ or deliver its power as per normal.
Space Age
As a practical SUV, the Model Y is hard to beat. There’s plenty of space in the back to stretch out, and rear passengers even get a small 8-inch touchscreen to control various settings, or even watch YouTube videos if they wish, an idea taken from the facelifted Model 3 introduced in 2024.
Boot space remains at an enormous 854 litres, expandable to a simply colossal 2,138 litres if you fold down the rear seats, a feat achieved by simply pressing a button. If somehow that is not enough for you, there is also a frunk with 117 litres of capacity.
Just The Right Amount of Power
As capable as the Cat A Model Y was, the restricted power was exceedingly obvious when you put the pedal down. The RWD obviously addresses this issue, and the overall feeling is that this is the Model Y as it is meant to be.
The single electric motor puts out a handy 342bhp and 450Nm of torque, and the car accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds, which is brisk enough to help you execute overtaking manoeuvres with ease.
It’s the way that the power is delivered that’s truly impressive though. It comes in smoothly and effortlessly, and is certainly much more effective at moving you along than the 110kW. And yet it doesn’t feel as brutally explosive as the top-spec Long Range AWD model, whose acceleration has been described by some as akin to a mad rollercoaster ride.
Essentially, the RWD is really the version for those who want a relatively ‘normal’ Model Y experience, with enough power for everyday use, and nothing too crazily excessive like the overpowered AWD model.
Same Great Drive
The difference in power does not seem to have affected the Model Y’s drivability elsewhere, because it feels much the same actually. There’s a sense of sure-footedness that you’ll expect from a large electric SUV like this, but the car is also surprisingly nimble and eager in the corners, certainly much more so than many of its rivals.
The steering too is nicely weighted, with three adjustable settings to choose from. However, the feel can be a bit inconsistent, especially when cornering, and keener drivers would probably appreciate a bit more feedback perhaps.
Ride quality is well-controlled, if slightly on the firmer side. It copes well with most road bumps, and never really veers into uncomfortable territory, which is a real credit to how Tesla has engineered its suspension setup.
And because the Model Y RWD shares the same 62.5kWh battery as the Cat A variant, the range remains unchanged at 466km. In the real world you’ll probably get somewhere nearer to 400km, which is still good enough to last the average Singaporean for about a week’s worth of driving.
The Nice Middle Ground
The reality of the Singaporean car market is that the Cat A Model Y will likely remain the most popular version of the car here, simply because of its relative affordability compared to the more powerful models in the range.
In terms of outright sticker price, the Model Y RWD isn’t actually that much more expensive than the 110kW model, being roughly about $13,000 more. The difference in monthly instalments works out to just slightly under $200 a month, which is pretty reasonable to be fair.
However, because our road tax structure for EVs is based on power output, the Model Y RWD incurs a rather sizeable road tax of $3,476 a year, more than double that of the 110kW’s $1,560 annual tax rate.
If you aren’t deterred by the hefty increase in tax though, the Model Y RWD strikes a nice balance for those who want a capable electric SUV that’s spacious, practical, good to drive and decently powerful without going overboard. It truly feels just right, which is a bit odd to describe something from a company as extreme as Tesla.
Technical Specifications
Tesla Model Y RWD
Engine: Single Electric Motor
Powertrain: Rear Wheel Drive
Power: 255 kW (342 bhp)
Torque: 450 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 5.9 Seconds
Top Speed: 201 km/h
Battery Capacity: 62.5 kWh
Drive Range: 466 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 6.5km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$238,391 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Photo Credits: Ben Chia (@benchiacars)
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