The 2022 Tesla Model Y sits right in the EV sweet spot: a compact all-electric SUV with strong range, quick acceleration, access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, and a cabin sized for family duty. If you’re shopping used, a 2022 Tesla Model Y review needs to answer two questions: how does it drive today, and what should you watch for before you buy?
Why 2022 is a sweet-spot year
2022 Tesla Model Y overview
Launched in 2020, the Tesla Model Y quickly became one of the best-selling EVs in the U.S. By 2022 it was firmly established as a benchmark for compact electric SUVs. It shares its platform and much of its hardware with the Model 3 sedan, but adds a higher seating position, hatchback cargo area, optional third row, and more family-friendly packaging.
2022 Model Y at a glance
Strengths and weaknesses that matter in daily use
What it does really well
- Excellent range for the class, especially in Long Range trim.
- Quick acceleration even in non-Performance models.
- Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network makes road trips easier.
- Huge cargo area and flexible hatchback layout.
Where it can disappoint
- Ride quality is firmer and noisier than some rivals.
- Build quality and trim alignment can be inconsistent.
- Minimalist interior may feel stark if you prefer knobs and buttons.
- Third row (if equipped) is tight and kid-only.
Key specs, trims, and real-world range
In 2022, Tesla simplified the Model Y lineup, but you’ll still see some variation in the used market. Most U.S. buyers will run into two main versions: Long Range All-Wheel Drive and Performance. Earlier in 2022 there was also a shorter-lived entry ‘Standard Range’ or ‘Model Y’ variant in some regions.
2022 Tesla Model Y trims and key specs
Approximate factory ratings; real-world numbers vary with weather, speed, and wheel size.
| Trim (2022 US) | Drivetrain | EPA-est. range* | 0–60 mph (approx.) | Top speed | Typical wheel sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Range | Dual-motor AWD | ~330 miles | 4.8 seconds | 135 mph | 19" or 20" |
| Performance | Dual-motor AWD | ~303 miles | 3.5 seconds | 155 mph | 21" |
| Standard Range (rare) | RWD or AWD, limited runs | ~270 miles (varies) | ~5.5 seconds | 135 mph | 19" or 20" |
2022 Model Y Long Range is the sweet spot for most used buyers.
Real-world range vs EPA numbers
Range, efficiency, and running costs at a glance
Driving experience: performance, comfort, and noise
Even in Long Range form, the 2022 Model Y feels genuinely quick. Instant torque and all-wheel drive mean easy on-ramp merges and highway passes. The Performance variant goes further, with sports-car levels of acceleration and firmer suspension tuning that sharpens handling.
Acceleration & handling
- Strong straight-line speed: The Long Range is already brisk; the Performance feels legitimately fast.
- Low center of gravity: The under-floor battery helps the Model Y stay flat through corners.
- Steering feel: Quick and responsive, though still a bit light and digital compared with some sporty gas SUVs.
Ride quality & noise
- Firm ride: On 20" or 21" wheels, bumps and expansion joints are noticeable, especially on rough urban pavement.
- Road and wind noise: Louder than some luxury rivals; 2022s improved over early builds but still not whisper-quiet.
- Best comfort setup: Long Range on 19" wheels with normal suspension is the most forgiving combo.
Test drive on your daily roads
Interior, space, and practicality for families
If you’re coming from a traditional SUV, the 2022 Model Y’s cabin will feel different: very few buttons, a single 15-inch touchscreen, and a clean dash with almost no clutter. Some shoppers love the simplicity; others miss physical controls. What tends to win people over is space. The Model Y has a huge cargo hold, a roomy back seat, and a large glass roof that brightens the cabin.
How practical is a 2022 Model Y?
Everyday usability highlights for families and commuters
Seating
- Comfortable for four adults, five in a pinch.
- Generous rear legroom compared with many compact SUVs.
- Optional third row is best reserved for small kids on short trips.
Cargo & storage
- Large hatchback opening with flat load floor.
- Extra front trunk (frunk) for groceries or charging cables.
- Deep under-floor storage wells in the rear.
Glass roof & visibility
- Panoramic fixed glass roof adds light and a sense of space.
- Rearward visibility is just OK; you’ll lean on the backup camera.
- Tinted glass helps with heat but sunshades are a popular accessory.
Check child-seat fit and cargo in person
Technology, Autopilot, and in-car experience
Tech is a core part of the 2022 Tesla Model Y appeal. Over-the-air software updates can add features or refine existing ones, and the interface is familiar to anyone used to smartphones and tablets. Nearly all climate, drive settings, and media controls live inside the central screen.
- Standard navigation with EV route planning and Supercharger integration.
- Built-in streaming apps (depending on your Tesla account and region), plus Bluetooth audio and premium audio in most examples.
- Phone-as-key functionality on many 2022 cars, plus a physical key card.
- Over-the-air updates that can tweak range estimates, user interface elements, and driver-assist behavior.
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD)
Charging, road trips, and living with a 2022 Model Y
For many owners, the 2022 Model Y’s biggest advantage is charging convenience. At home, it behaves like most EVs: you plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery. On the road, the difference is Tesla’s Supercharger network, which remains one of the most extensive and reliable fast-charging systems in North America.
Home charging
- Best setup is a Level 2 (240V) home charger or Tesla Wall Connector.
- Expect to add roughly 25–40 miles of range per hour depending on amperage.
- Most households can comfortably recharge a daily commute overnight.
New to home charging? Recharged can help you understand charging options when you’re buying, including how fast you’ll charge at home and what equipment you actually need.
Fast charging & road trips
- Access to Tesla Superchargers makes long-distance driving straightforward, plug in, charge, go.
- On a healthy 2022 battery, you can typically charge from about 10% to 60–70% in roughly 20–30 minutes under good conditions.
- The car’s nav will route you through chargers and show estimated arrival charge and charging time.
Plan around state of charge, not “full range”
Safety ratings and driver-assist features
If safety is high on your list, the 2022 Tesla Model Y is a strong performer. It earns top crash-test scores and comes with a long list of standard active-safety technology.
2022 Model Y safety snapshot
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection.
- Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assistance.
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts (implementation can vary by production date and market).
- Multiple cameras and sensors used for driver assistance and parking views.
Driver-assist is not autonomous driving
Reliability, recalls, and common issues
Tesla’s reliability track record is mixed, and the 2022 Model Y is no exception. Powertrain and battery issues are relatively rare, but owners frequently report build-quality quirks and software-related frustrations. The upside in 2022 is that Tesla had already iterated on early-production problems from 2020–2021, so many of the worst bugs were ironed out.
Common 2022 Model Y complaints to watch for
Most are fixable, your goal is to spot them early
Fit-and-finish & hardware
- Uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint, or trim misalignment.
- Wind noise from door or glass seals at highway speeds.
- Occasional squeaks or rattles from interior panels.
Many cosmetic issues can be addressed under warranty if caught early.
Software & electronics
- Glitches requiring screen or car reboots.
- Connectivity drops for Bluetooth or cellular-based features.
- Occasional phantom warnings from sensors or driver-assist.
Over-the-air updates solve some bugs, but you still want to test every major feature on a test drive.
Recalls and service history matter
Used 2022 Model Y pricing and value
Used pricing for the 2022 Tesla Model Y moves with Tesla’s frequent new-car price changes, EV tax-credit rules, and regional demand. Still, 2022 examples usually occupy a sweet spot: newer than early-build 2020–2021 cars, but often thousands less than an equivalent new Model Y.
- Long Range AWD models typically command a premium over Standard Range thanks to better range and all-wheel drive.
- Performance models can be more affordable than you’d expect if previous owners prioritized speed over comfort, many shoppers avoid the firmer ride and 21-inch wheels.
- Low-mileage, single-owner cars with clean histories and minimal cosmetic issues tend to hold value best.
Why 2022 can be high-value versus new
What to check before you buy used
With any used EV, and especially a tech-heavy one like the 2022 Model Y, your goal is to verify battery health, software status, build quality, and how the previous owner treated the car. A basic visual inspection isn’t enough.
Essential pre-purchase checks for a 2022 Tesla Model Y
1. Battery health and charging history
Ask for a recent full-charge estimate and compare it to the original EPA range. Look for cars that mostly charged at home on Level 2 rather than fast-charging every day. With Recharged, the Recharged Score includes battery diagnostics so you’re not guessing.
2. Software version and feature set
Confirm the current software version, whether basic Autopilot or FSD is active, and that all cameras and sensors work. Make sure you can log into or create your own Tesla account without issues.
3. Fit, finish, and water intrusion
Inspect panel gaps, doors, liftgate alignment, and seals. Look for signs of water leaks in the trunk, under-floor storage, and footwells. Check for condensation inside light housings.
4. Wheels, tires, and suspension
Curb-rash on wheels, uneven tire wear, or clunks over bumps can point to previous impacts or alignment and suspension issues. Performance models with 21" wheels deserve extra scrutiny.
5. Charging hardware and cables
Verify that the mobile connector, adapters, and any home-charging equipment included in the sale are present and in good condition. Test a charging session if possible.
6. History reports and recalls
Pull a vehicle history report, confirm title status, and use the VIN to check for open recalls. A curated marketplace like Recharged will surface this information and flag issues in the Recharged Score Report.
Who the 2022 Model Y is (and isn’t) for
Great fit if you want…
- One do-it-all EV that handles commuting, kid duty, and road trips.
- Strong range and fast charging without going to a larger, more expensive SUV.
- A tech-forward cabin with frequent software updates and integrated navigation and charging.
- Lower running costs and less routine maintenance than a comparable gas SUV.
Consider other options if you want…
- Pillow-soft ride and ultra-quiet cabin above all else, some luxury rivals are more isolated.
- Physical buttons and knobs for every function instead of a touchscreen-centric interface.
- Regular towing or heavy off-roading; the Model Y’s tow rating and ground clearance are fine for light duty but not hardcore use.
- A large, adult-friendly third row; the optional third row is best for children.
How Recharged can simplify your search
2022 Tesla Model Y FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the 2022 Tesla Model Y
If you want an electric SUV that can handle commuting, errands, and long-distance trips with one vehicle, the 2022 Tesla Model Y belongs on your short list, especially in Long Range form. It’s not the last word in ride comfort or traditional luxury, but its blend of range, performance, cargo space, and charging convenience is hard to beat. Go in with a clear view of battery health, build quality, and software status, and a used 2022 Model Y can be a smart, future-ready addition to your driveway, particularly when backed by the data and support you get with a Recharged Score Report.
