About this episode
The latest update on the 2026 Tesla Model Y dives into its new features, including acoustic glass for a quieter ride, enhanced interior materials, and a rear passenger touchscreen. The hosts share their experiences with the car's purchase process, which proved challenging due to Tesla's unique sales model. Driving impressions highlight the Model Y's quick acceleration and handling, though concerns arise about ride stiffness and rear visibility. The discussion also touches on Tesla's tech-heavy interface and the implications for safety and usability, making for a comprehensive look at this popular EV.
This week, we share our first impressions of the updated 2026 Tesla Model Y. A smoother ride, upgraded interior, and quieter cabin are just some of the improvements in this refreshed all-electric SUV—but it's not without quirks. We break down its performance on our test track, the challenges with Tesla's delivery process, and our concerns about the vehicle's controls and so-called "Full Self-Driving" system. We also answer your questions about roomy, comfortable gas or hybrid alternatives with modern safety features, and explain how Consumer Reports buys and tests vehicles—including whether we pay MSRP.
More info on the 2026 Tesla Model Y here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tesla/model-y/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.
SHOW NOTES
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00:00 - Introduction
00:36 - Overview: 2026 Tesla Model Y
02:49 - Buying Process
08:34 - Driving Dynamics
10:01 - Visibility
11:04 - Ride Comfort
12:07 - Access
15:29 - Controls
18:58 - FSD "Full Self-Driving"
25:02 - Infotainment System
27:54 - Build Quality
30:06 - Safety Features
34:17 - Final Thoughts
37:25 - Question #1: Is CR quoting the MSRP price when publishing the price paid for the vehicle?
40:03 - Question #2: what is a roomy, comfortable gas or hybrid alternative with modern safety features under 50K?
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First Drive: The Freshened Tesla Model Y Includes Improvements but Keeps Some Warts
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-tesla-model-y-review-a4126153571/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Tested: The Best Tire for Teslas and Other Electric Vehicles
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/tested-best-tires-for-teslas-and-other-electric-vehicles-a6379613635/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Best Electric Cars of 2025, According to Consumer Reports' Tests
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-electric-vehicles-from-consumer-reports-tests-a3759669425/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Electric Vehicles With the Longest Range
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-with-the-longest-range-a2189661367/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Hot, New Electric Cars That Are Coming Soon
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon-a1000197429/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Tesla Model
"...nt car, some would say a special car. This is the Tesla Model Y podcast. We're very excited to talk about this."
Cadillac Optiq
"... now the handles are open to you. So the Cadillac OPTIQ or OPTIQ is I like to call it"
Nissan Rogue
"I thought we were going to crash into an Nissan Rogue, but the car just crept forward so it could get"
Hyundai Ionic
"experience for me. I just got out of the Hyundai Ionic nine, one of our new EV"
Ford Explorer
"subscriber since 2015 when my 2003 Ford Explorer gave out and I picked up a used"
Tucson Hybrid
"So my recommendation is to get the Hyundai Tucson hybrid. Even a new Hyundai"
Mazda Cx50
"Mazdas like Mazdas. The Mazda CX 50 Hybrid, which is essentially a RAV4."
Toyota RAV4
"The Mazda CX 50 Hybrid, which is essentially a RAV4. Don't tell him."
Rav4 Hybrid
"It's a wrap. It's like the RAV4 hybrid engine. It's the drivetrain from Toyota."
Genesis G70
"And I went sedan. I went lease a Genesis G70. Oh, yes."
Hyundai Genesis
"And I went sedan. I went lease a Genesis G70. Oh, yes."
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