Tesla Model Y LR RWD Review

by Sean Loo, 5 April 2026

2026 gives us three distinct variants of the Tesla Model Y here in Singapore, and this is arguably the best one.

For a brand that built its reputation on disruption (on doing things differently, sometimes controversially), Tesla has steadily made its way to become one of the dominant choices in the EV space. And the Tesla Model Y sits right at the heart of that success.

It is, quite simply, one of the best-selling cars in the world. Not just EVs. Cars. Which begs the question: if you’re looking to buy one today, what exactly is the “right” version of such a car?

Having spent some time with the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant, I suspect Tesla may have found the answer.

The Familiar Face of Efficiency

Visually, there is very little to distinguish the various Model Y variants from one another. Whether you opt for the power-restricted Category A version or the “full-fat” Performance, the silhouette remains the same: sleek, clean, and arguably a little anonymous.

The facelifted model, introduced earlier in 2025, brings with it a sharper lighting signature. A slim light bar now stretches across the front, while the rear lights reflect elegantly off the tailgate panel.

The cabin has now become a hallmark of Tesla design: minimalism taken to its logical extreme.

There is, quite literally, almost nothing in front of you, save for a steering wheel and a large central touchscreen. No traditional instrument cluster. No conventional buttons. Everything from speed readouts to climate controls lives within that screen.

Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD front seats

If you are new to Tesla, it can feel slightly disorientating at first. I remember glancing instinctively behind the steering wheel for a speedometer, only to find… nothing. It takes a moment to recalibrate your instincts.

That said, the facelift has addressed one of the more controversial decisions of the previous model. The indicator stalk has returned. Beyond that, the system remains as feature-rich, or as some might say, as gimmick-laden, as ever.

Games, apps, and an entire ecosystem of digital functions sit within that screen. You will likely explore them once, perhaps twice, before settling into the essentials.

Space, Glorious Space

As a practical family SUV, the Model Y continues to impress.

Rear passengers are treated to generous legroom, and now, courtesy of updates inspired by the Tesla Model 3 facelift, an 8-inch rear touchscreen. Whether it is used for climate control or YouTube playback, it adds a layer of versatility that families will appreciate.

Boot space, meanwhile, remains one of the Model Y’s strongest cards. At 854 litres with the seats up and an almost cavernous 2,138 litres with them folded, it is difficult to think of a direct rival that offers as much usable space. The addition of a 117-litre frunk only sweetens the deal.

If practicality were the sole metric, the Model Y would already be hard to fault.

The “Right” Amount of Power

Now, let us address the reason why you’re reading this article: performance.

The Category A version of the Model Y, while commendable for its accessibility, always felt slightly restrained. You could sense that the car was holding back, like a sprinter forced to jog.

The RWD version corrects that. With 220kW and 350Nm of torque, it delivers a 0–100km/h time of 5.8 seconds. Brisk enough for daily driving, and more importantly, sufficient oomph for overtaking and merging.

What truly stands out is the way the power is delivered. It is smooth, progressive, and effortless, akin to a steady surge rather than an aggressive shove.

Here is where Tesla has struck a delicate balance. Unlike the AWD variant, which can feel almost absurdly quick, the RWD feels… normal. In the best possible way. After all, how often do you really need neck-snapping acceleration on Singapore roads?

On the move, the Model Y retains its reassuring sense of stability. It feels planted, predictable, and secure, qualities that matter far more than outright excitement in a daily-driven SUV.

For a car of its size, the Model Y is surprisingly nimble. It turns into corners with more eagerness than you might expect, and while it will not set your pulse racing, it certainly does not feel cumbersome.

Ride quality leans slightly towards the firm side, but it remains well-controlled. It absorbs most imperfections with composure, never crossing into discomfort.

Choosing this variant bestows you with the beefier 84kWh battery, offering the LR RWD a claimed range of 661km. Easily enough range to cover your family for the week.

You got enough juice and an efficient powertrain to boot. What’s not to love?

The Sweet Spot?

So, where does that leave the Model Y RWD?

It is not the cheapest option in the range. Nor is it the fastest. But perhaps that is precisely why it works so well.

It feels like the Model Y distilled to its essence. Enough power to be satisfying, enough comfort to be livable, and enough practicality to be genuinely useful. Nothing excessive. Nothing compromised.

Balance is what makes this model stand out, and getting it “just right” might be the most impressive achievement of all.

Technical Specifications

Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Powertrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 220 kW (295 bhp)
Torque: 350 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0100km/h: 5.8 Seconds
Top Speed: 201 km/h
Battery Capacity: 84 kWh
Drive Range: 661 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 7.04 km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$222,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)