Edmunds compared three family-oriented electric SUVs with the recently refreshed Tesla Model Y Juniper. One stood out as the obvious victor.
Assuming there’s something like an iPhone among cars, then it would undoubtedly be the
Tesla Model Y
Tesla’s mid-size electric SUV has secured its position as the top-selling electric vehicle globally and also ranks as the best-selling individual car model overall due to its unbeatable mix of range, performance, technological features, cost, and functionality.
But right as
An updated version of the Model Y has been unveiled.
many individuals
have their reasons
For the desire to move away from Tesla. This aligns with an influx of highly competitive electric vehicles from other manufacturers that were previously not in the same league as Tesla about five years ago, but which have since caught up and are even excelling in certain areas.
In fourth place is the Honda Prologue,
2024’s surprise EV success story
It’s a General Motors electric vehicle under the hood.
before Honda begins to chart its own course
However, this isn’t negative at all—as the Prologue introduces some Honda influences yet retains Apple CarPlay functionality, which General Motors’ vehicles lack.
Moreover, it provides ample space for baggage along with the largest cup holders in the comparison;Honda undoubtedly understands what appeals to American car buyers. The Prologue Elite model we evaluated is priced at $59,295 and boasts an impressive range of up to 283 miles.
Edmunds EV Test
Following closely is the Chevy Equinox EV,
Our 2024 Breakthrough Award recipient
And pound for pound, one of the most cost-effective electric options in America.
Edmunds
The tester arrives at $34,995 and has recently excelled tremendously in its range tests with an impressive 356 miles. (I must mention that I have never encountered such performance from the Equinox EV before.)
Edmunds’
The local Southern California climate is likely making a significant difference. )
Equinox EV
However, it is smaller compared to the others and stands out as the only single-motor, front-wheel-drive option. Therefore, it’s not surprising that it performs better than its all-wheel-drive rivals. According to tester Brian Wong, it “nearly claims the top position based on its value.”
Model Y compared to Ioniq 5
However, what truly stands out about this test is that it concludes with both vehicles neck and neck. Although the Model Y has historically been the benchmark for crossovers in this segment—and the refreshed version appears to be quite impressive—it ends up tied with the revamped Ioniq 5.
Edmunds
The Model Y Launch Series (recently phased out) starts at $61,635 with an outstanding range of 327 miles. This version boasts a superior, quieter interior, increased mileage, distinct styling, and improved overall ride quality compared to earlier models of the Model Y.
Wong calls it one of the most comfortable EVs you can buy today—definitely not something you’d say about the last car. And while Tesla’s tech is always good, its Full Self-Driving system “makes some questionable decisions.”
Model Y Interior
Wong points out that the Juniper represents a significant upgrade for the Model Y compared to before, stating that the earlier version would have ranked third in these tests. However, the current iteration matches up evenly against the Ioniq 5. The fact that Wong chose to express it this way rather than emphasizing Tesla’s dominance highlights how much stronger the competitors like Hyundai are becoming.
In the Ioniq 5’s case, that means a
conventional Tesla-style plug for North America
And you get direct access to native Tesla Superchargers without needing an adapter. Priced at $60,285 and offering a range of 282 miles, this vehicle is notably more user-friendly compared to Tesla’s model: traditional controls like buttons, knobs, and actual air vents simplify operations better than Tesla’s entirely touchscreen-based interface. Additionally, it features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a smart sliding central console, a cozy interior, and impressive acceleration.
Ioniq 5 Highway
Does the refreshed Ioniq 5 pose as Tesla’s toughest competitor in the American market? It certainly seems that way, stronger than ever before.
Edmunds
Wong stated that your decision hinges on personal preference: opting for the Tesla’s “unyielding simplicity” or choosing the Ioniq 5’s “forward-thinking nostalgia.”
But even the tie verdict makes clear that the Model Y isn’t the default top choice in the EV crossover world anymore, and that alone is a huge advancement for the entire field.
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More EV Buyer’s Guides
- The Volkswagen ID.4 Has Overtaken The Tesla Model Y In This Crucial Market
- Here’s How Much Range These Common Electric Vehicles Lose When It GetsCold
- Winter Highway Range Test Pits Three New Electric Luxury SUVs Against Each Other
- What Is the Expense of Charging a Chevrolet Equinox EV?
- Hyundai Ioniq 9 Versus Cadillac LTVX Versus Rivian R1S Versus Kia EV9: A Comparative Look
- Do Electric Vehicles Actually Cost More to Operate Than Gas-Powered Cars?
