Tesla Model Y First Drive India: The Wait Is Over, But Is It Worth It?

After years of teasers and delays, Tesla stormed into India in July 2025 with its Mumbai showroom launch, swiftly adding Delhi and Gurugram outlets to the mix. The brand is clearly serious about grabbing a chunk of our rapidly expanding EV pie. I got a chance to drive the only model on offer – the premium Model Y, shipped in as a full CBU import. Late in 2025, with the market flooded by capable, cheaper electric SUVs from established players, does the Tesla magic still hold strong? A 100 km real-world spin helped separate fact from fanfare.

Looks & Cabin: Futuristic Charm With Everyday Quirks

The Model Y's exterior hasn't lost its edge – sleek pebble-shaped body, hidden flush handles, full-width LED bars, and clean aero details give it a presence

that's distinctly ahead of the curve. You get useful extras like a 117-litre front trunk, smart 19-inch wheels, and a massive 822-litre powered boot.

Hop inside and the ultra-minimalist layout hits hard: everything revolves around the huge 15.4-inch touchscreen, from basic controls to advanced settings. Premium materials shine through, the fixed glass roof creates an open feel, and back-seat comfort is genuinely impressive for taller folks. Downsides? No shade for scorching summers, missing Android Auto/Apple CarPlay support, absent front USBs, and endless screen taps for routine adjustments – it's cool at first, irritating later.

On the Road & Range Check: Smooth Operator, Realistic Numbers

Despite a mysterious 100 km/h limiter on the press car, the Model Y delivers effortless thrust, impeccable poise, and a surprisingly cushioned ride that shrugs off rough patches – better than several high-end fossil-fuel SUVs. It's quiet, confident, and fun in daily traffic or quick highway bursts.

Range test: Started with 59% battery showing 319 km, ended the 100 km mixed drive at 33% with 177 km left – effectively consuming around 142 km of claimed range. Solid for relaxed driving, but not groundbreaking when competitors are pushing similar figures (or more) at lower costs.

Verdict: Iconic, Yet Pricey in Today's Market

The Model Y is undeniably special – sharp styling, engaging drive, top-notch comfort, and that unbeatable Tesla aura. Yet, quirks like screen-heavy controls, limited rear visibility from the sloping roof, unreliable built-in nav, and no proper smartphone mirroring take the shine off.

Facing off against loaded, locally manufactured EVs that cost far less while offering extras or similar features, the Model Y's premium tag feels tough to swallow for most. If brand prestige and cutting-edge tech are non-negotiable, go for it – it's brilliant. Otherwise, the long wait ends with a capable car that's more aspirational than essential.