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If it had a hatchback it would have the same rear passenger issues and rear visibility issues that the model Y has so it wouldn’t be the perfect vehicle imo 🙂
I know, but the S was able to be a hatchback without “the same rear passenger issues and rear visibility issues.” Tesla obviously made some design choices for the Y that constrained the location of the crossbeam, but it wasn’t the fact that they started with a sedan. The Model S is proof of that.
I'm 5'8 as well. I just got done test driving the Model Y today and had completely different results. With the rear seats reclined fully back my head was only touching the head rest and I'd venture to say I had approx 2.5 inches before I would have hit the rear cross bar with my head. I would not be surprised if you have a longer than average torso as the rear cross bar was not an issue for me or my spouse and we are the same height as you.
i am 6'1'' and i just checked mine out after watching your video. It's true if the seat is reclined all the way my head touches the cross bar. If I bring the seat back up one notch it was comfortable and not an issue for me sitting normally. If you are tall you can't recline the rear seats all the way without hitting your head.
@@TheTechofTech If we call fully upright position 1 and fully reclined position 3, position 1 there is no head room issues. Position 2 if i "try" to touch the crossbar (buy stretching out) with my head i can barely graze it. position 3 is unusable for me due to hitting my head on the cross bar. This is just sitting in my driveway not riding around, I would have to test it out while being driven around to see if going over bumps was an issue in position 2. That all said, position 1 is comfortable for me (sitting in the driveway, i have not taken a long drive while in the back seat yet)
What I mean is, think about what your head would hit if you were in Position 2 and were rear ended. That’s my concern for that position more so than comfort.
For me at 6ft tall, I appreciate being able to sit in the upright position without my head hitting the ceiling. In the Model 3 backseat, I cannot sit in any position without my head hitting. I am waiting on the standard range Model Y and I will leave the backseat reclining for my kids while adults can at least sit comfortably with the seat upright unlike in the Model 3.
I have a Model Y on order and after reading this review, decided I'd better investigate this crossbeam thing in case it was a big deal. I want my friends and family to be able to sit in the back safely and comfortably. I'm happy to say that, for me at least, this is non-issue. I took a trip to the Tesla dealer and sat in the back of their Model Y demo. I'm a bit over 6' 1" and I fit just fine with all but the very furthest reclined position. Even with that setting, I could slouch a bit and be safe. Not that I plan to do that. No biggie at all but you should check for yourself, as I believe was mentioned in the video.
I've been trying to decide between the Model 3 and the Y (I am a long legged 5'-8" guy). I have looked at a number of articles and videos comparing the two. This is the first one that really addresses the difference in feel due to the height and seating. I also very much appreciate the comments from those of you who have experienced both. With the 3 I would get 27 more miles of range and be $4000 richer.
I haven’t seen the “Y” but based on your review, the rear window visibility would be a deal breaker. I am 6’4” but when I sat inside a “3” a few months ago, I found the car to be very comfortable.
Wow! other reviewers for sure failed to mention these drawbacks, way to go highlighting them. This definitely makes me appreciate my M3 AWD that much more.
The model Y is ugly and the interior room is not good for a SUV. I think the Model 3 is the best car they make for the money. They truly nailed the Model 3. But they failed with this. A lot of you tubers are Tesla fanboys. Tesla really needs to improve their interiors and overall quality.
There’s a ridiculous amount of leg room in the 3, don’t make your decision based on that. I mean it seems impossible how much room there is relative to the size of the car.
@@mellowphantpi9168 yeah but the seat length is much shorter on M3, so if you have a long leg, your legs will be floating with no seat underneath your leg/thighs.
Really good honest review. I was tossing up waiting for a Model Y(not available yet in my country) or go for Model 3. You have helped me make my decision! Thank you! (Model 3 it is!)
I don’t think Tesla understands an suv shouldn’t function like a slightly bigger version of their sedan. That rear visibility is horrible and there’s no way they can fit more seats behind the middle. I understand having limited foot room but limited head room in what’s supposed to be an suv is ridiculous. I like teslas but unless they do a serious redesign I don’t see this being a real family car like it should’ve been
I've had my Model Y for 10 days now, and I wish I had seen this video before I pulled the trigger. The rear visibility is really terrible, especially at night with the auto-dim mirror. Combined with the tinted window, the rearview mirror is virtually useless after dark. What persuaded me to get a Y is not the cargo space, which I don't need, but rather the ease of exiting and entering. (A family member has mobility issues.) And I like the extra ground clearance the Y gives me. But I sure wish there were a way to overcome the rear visibility problem.
Interesting observation. I’d never heard the crossbeam issue mentioned either. I’m 6’4” and won’t be riding in the rear seat, but I’m going to need to take a closer look before I take delivery of the Y I have on order.
Model 3 for me. I always preferred sports cars. I've owned Austin-Healey, Sunbeam, three Porsches. Never cared for station wagons, vans, or SUVs. Prefer low, hugging the road cars. Drove over 100 miles in Arkansas mountains today, the Model 3's one pedal driving through the continuous curves is outstanding. But, many years ago I did drive a truck do got my fill of sitting up high.
Having driven both extensively I enjoy driving the 3 over the Y hands down! The model Y feels like driving an empty shoe box vs the 3 that feels firm and compact. Just my opinion. Room wise the Y is better but the ride is not as enjoyable I think.
Probably one of the better plain vanilla but unbiased videos on the MY. You’re right , it’s not a popular opinion as it’ll probably irk some hardcore Tesla fanboys. I actually deferred delivery of my MY last week because of other issues, but I’m so glad I saw this video. Really makes me wonder now if I should take delivery when that time comes again. Or maybe just go with a 3. Regardless, thank you for the two “flaws” in the car that a software update won’t be able to fix.
Here I’ve been thinking the Model Y was simply a hatchback 3 with no trade offs. I had no intention of trading the 3 on a Y but I wished I had waited. That rear visibility would have driven me nuts
Thanks Cam. I agree. I had a chance to drive a Y last week for half an hour. I was underwhelmed. It was a stealth performance model (19" wheels). I felt quite a bit of torque steer on launch. I love the tighter handling of my non performance Dual motor 3 much better. And the back seat, wasn't what I thought it would be as well. It's nuanced differences between the two.
I didn't do any launches because it was a personal vehicle of a Tesla employee, but that's interesting to note torque steer. There were a few other finish details that felt extra cheap to me throughout, but I didn't mention them in this video because I didn't want to dilute the greater issue with the crossbeam's position.
That bumping against the crossbar is probably because the seats are all the way back. The bench is movable to switch between storage and legroom and putting it more forward should fix that. I agree that it is still a design flaw.
@@TheTechofTech I didn't know that. I thought both models had that feature. Thanks for the info. Makes me even happier I ordered a Model 3 instead of the Y. Maybe the next gen won't have these kind of design oversights.
We own both. I tell people everytime I talk about the cars that I'd pick the Y if I had to choose 1. No question. WAY more room than the 3. However, I love how the 3 drives & love having both
I am considering trading in my M3 for a MY. Even on my M3, I find the rear visibility pretty bad so I am very concerned about how I can ignore that it's worse on the MY. But what's most concerning is the issue you pointed about safety with the rear passengers and that crossbar. Thanks for sharing this, it was very valuable.
Thanks for this video. I suppose Tesla only expects shorter passengers or kids to use the recline feature of the rear seats. Tall people should not use the recline function if their head touches the crossbeam for the safety reasons you point out. I’m only 5’3 and would love to sit in the rear seat of the model y on a long trip.
The Model Y with 3rd row option will most likely have the 2nd row on rails so it can slide forward for accessing the 3rd row and for giving the 3rd row more leg room. This would mean the second row could be moved forward a few inches, solving the issue with hitting your head when reclining in the second row.
Thank you for this. Yours is an uncommon opinion which I appreciate. So many Tesla UA-cam reviewers just repeat what everyone else has said. Thanks for daring to be different and giving an honest opinion!
Can’t tell if you’re race baiting because you’re a Russian bot or because that’s just the way you are. The light was green for way longer than that, and I could see the driver in front of me still looking at her phone through her mirror.
Range is overrated. We’ve never felt we needed more than the 310 miles of range our Model 3 is rated for. We don’t come anywhere near that in daily driving, and on road trips, we’re wanting to stop to pee and stretch every couple of hours anyway, so we don’t need 5 hours of range. I advise you to get the vehicle you want between the two, knowing that both have way more range than you’ll ever likely need.
I'm 6'1" and I do not fit in the Model 3 rear at all. The top of my head hits the glass. I would say neither vehicle gives much priority to rear passenger occupants. Model Y visibility is unacceptable.
I was initially concerned about it, but once I've started driving, I've never once been bothered by it. There's more than enough visibility between the mirrors, rear window, and digital display of traffic to feel very comfortable. Also sitting up higher helps my vantage point.
When you sat in the back seat of your Model3. It appears the left side of your head is very close to the side beam. If your model3 was hit from the side, would your head hit the beam?
@@TheTechofTech Well, depending on the type of accident, the airbag just might not deploy. Also, speaking of airbags, I wonder if there's an airbag in the crossbeam? I Doubt it but it's possible they thought the issue through somewhat.
The funny thing is that when I test drove a model Y at my local tesla dealership, I actually thought the side mirrors were incredibly small, so the fact you say the model 3 side mirrors are half the size of a model y's mirrors actually make me want to get a model y more, haha. Yes, the rear view is absolutely awful, but I think it's something you can get used to over time.
I am currently looking at a Tesla and was leaning towards the Y just for the extra cargo space. In Canada the difference between the M3 Sr+ and the MYLR is $22k because the 3 gets the $5k federal incentive so it's really a no brainer at that point. Great video.
One of the answers to helping with this problem of visibility and rear headroom. Is to stop building cars with idiotic glass roofs. It gives you so much more freedom if the entire roof is made of steel because then you can put the hinge points for the liftgate in more convenient locations. I do not understand the purpose of having a giant greenhouse over your head so you can bake in the sun and have to run the air conditioning colder and use even more battery. Not to mention the glass is very heavy.
Thanks for the review. This is the first review of the Model Y I have seen that has anything negative to say. When I bought my Model 3 I test drove a Model 3 Performance and to me it was a bit stiff on the ride and a thing that many people don't consider is that it is very easy to damage a rim/tire when they are that low profile. Your opinion may be unpopular but it is your opinion. When I got my Model 3 it had a couple of issues so Tesla took it back and gave me a Model S as a loaner. At first I thought, oh no I am gonna love this and have to trade up to a Model S. However I did not like the Model S nearly as much as my Model 3. That was also an unpopular opinion because the $94K car is supposed to be way better than the $58K car. I would pick the Model 3 even if it was the same price as the Model S. I like the overall styling of the Model Y but I see nothing that would compel me to trade in my Model 3.
I think a lot of people share our opinion that the Model 3 is more fun to drive than the Model S... sort of. I haven’t driven any since the new Raven suspension, so I can’t really say if I’d still feel the same way.
The Tech of Tech for me it was more about the interior styling. Model S handled well although it was clearly not as nimble as the Model 3. I love the exterior styling of the Model S and the lift back design is great.
Yeah I have never seen the problem you were having. The rear headrests do raise a bit too. We’ve had two model Y’s for a total of 3-4 years and found no real flaws like that. Even the rear visibility, was never a problem though I can imagine it is nice to see more. I’m just used to it I guess. The only reason to get a model y is the extra space for sure, but it’s an incredible car especially buying used nowadays at 35k.
I was all set to jump to a Tesla and drove the Model Y. HATED IT. The ride was terrible, the visibility was awful, and the glass roof was like being in a greenhouse. Then I drove the Model 3, and fell in love with it. Ordered one immediately and just over 3 months later it was delivered (this is just over 30 days ago). Not regretting my decision in the least.
You know I've been in the rear seats of the model y recently (twice) and I'm 5' 10" and my head doesn't hit the cross beam when fully reclined. Actually have pretty good clearance.
Interesting to see the variability in torso lengths. My point was always for people to try it out themselves and make sure they can place their heads on the headrest without coming into contact with the crossbeam.
Great review. I have not driven one yet. There are some positives with the Y but I’m pretty happy with my 3. Looking forward to the CyberTruck - may be closer to what I want than the Y. Thank you for the review! Stay safe and healthy!
I drove both Performance models. M3P is far better for enthusiasts., in handling, cornering and acceleration. I bought the right one before the Y came out ;)
I have a Model 3, and so does my wife, and we're coming from over 25 years of Honda Civics, so we are very happy, and they actually feel kind of large to us. Our kids are grown up and living elsewhere, so we don't exactly covet the Model Y's even larger size, and like the sporty handling of our Model 3s, and the range of my 2018 Model 3 LR AWD with 18" tires for those trips to visit distant family. When watching the Model Y videos, I had noticed that the sliver of rear window visible via the rear view mirror was lower than in the Model 3, and I really appreciate you getting into the implications of rear passenger heads touching the rear cross-beam. I had seen other Model Y videos briefly mention that their head touched the cross beam only when reclined. Great work!
I don't put my head on headrests anyways. Also the bench is soooo low on the 3 and my head is on the glass in that car. I think for me, a very tall person, the Y backseat would actually be more comfortable. I will agree that the headroom seems a safety issue.
Headrests are actually there to protect your neck in a rear end collision. If you can’t put your head on the headrest, your neck isn’t being protected. That’s my main point.
@@TheTechofTech Yeah like I said I think that's a safety issue too. I just think it personally wouldn't prevent a comfort issue , or at the very least would be better than 3. I see the 3's backseat as among the worst.
Thanks for highlighting this potential issue with the bar across back as I am thinking of replacing my model X with a Y in the future. I don’t think much of an issue in my case, as only my wife (5’ 2”) or young son would usually ever be in the back. I wish Tesla would do something with the rear camera to allow smaller window on screen for viewing (like picture in picture on iPad) while having navigation visible. Having both navigation and rear camera up all the time is big advantage of model X portrait screen
Hi. Can i just seek some clarification please? What do you mean by the side mirrors are "taller". And at one point you say "they're twice as tall". I don't really understand that. Thanks.
That overhead beam does seem to be a nuisance. Personally, it is the glass roofs that stop me from wanting either the 3 or the Y. I like solid metal obove me, and I keep the covers pulled over moon roofs etc. The street lights passing overhead irritate me.
I talk about this in my video on the Model 3’s safety (ua-cam.com/video/bkayYiwrjyQ/v-deo.html), but laminated glass used in Tesla roofs is actually stronger than the thin sheet metal used for roofs in other vehicles. You should see the photos of the Model 3 that rolled multiple times at 75mph.
@@TheTechofTech Yes it is a safe material. Very safe car overall. I just don't like that you can see light through it. I don't like that it is transparent.
It's not about fit when sitting- it's about what your head is going to hit if you're rear ended. If you aren't testing to see if you can put your head on the headrest without hitting the crossbeam, then you haven't evaluated what I'm talking about in this video.
I am 6'3" with the torso of someone 6'6" and I am going to be test driving and potentially buying DÆrik's Model Y today. I will definitely check out the issues you highlighted; especially the rear headroom.
So, my point in the video is not about headroom. It's about safety. If your head hits the crossbeam before meeting the headrest in a rearend collision, the risk of injury to your head and neck is likely much greater than if your head were instead cradled by the headrest. Headrests are designed to stop the rearward momentum of your head with your neck in neutral alignment. No way your neck will be in neutral alignment hitting the crossbeam in such an accident.
Great review. Some very good Points in decision making. I am currently deciding on one and was going to test drive both as well. But that rear crossbar is really breaking me on the model y
As an owner of a model 3 LR, something very important in the UK (and europe) is the extra width of the model Y is significant. I know this is not important in the US as the roads are straight and there is more space, but a wider car is a problem down back roads. Thank you for the review - those points are significant.
Given that the UK is full small roads and tight bends, the model 3 is a wonderful drive on these and the best handling car I ever had. I minor nice thing I have found which I wonder is built into the AI is that I find the car very easy to keep to a required speed when no cruise/auto-pilot is engaged. If I drive at 30mph in a town and keep looking at the speed, it holds this without having to keep adjusting the throttle, much easier to keep legal than other cars I have had.
Biggest issue I noted during my model Y test drive is the lowered rear view mirror which blocks my forward visibility! I’d like the model Y rear view mirror to be mounted like the model 3 rear view mirror.
I'm 6'2" and didn't hit my head on the crossbeam. Watching the video at the 12:50 mark it looks like you had the seat very reclined. Try it more upright and the problem is solved.
Wow! Thank you for this review. The visibility (lack of) in the back would drive me crazy. I'm also very concerned about the pack seat passengers who would hit their head on the support beam just behind the head rest. I think most other reviews focused too much on the driving and ignored issues with the back seats. Model 3 maybe for me, or Cybertruck.
I think that rear back cross beam is where it is to support the hinges on the hatchback. The Model S must have a similar issue. Maybe having rear airbags inside the trim covering the beam would help in a collision? If we get a model Y most of the time the rear seat will be folded down as it's now just my wife and I. So the Model Y would be able to replace our Dodge Caravan as the shopping hauler. Having the rear camera on all the time wouldn't be an issue as we rarely need the navigation locally. If you can leave the camera on and have the navigation in voice mode, that would work (that's how we use our cellphones as GPS, only need to see the screen for a quick 'look ahead' or to initially set up the target. I will test drive all three of the Tesla's I might consider before buying one (which is probably a year or two out from now). I would consider the model's S, 3, and Y, but not the model X (too many issues with those doors!). As a hatchback, with its ginormous range, the model S well worth considering if you are in a bind between the 3 and the Y.
How often do you have adults in the back seat? I almost never do. 99.9% of my back seat passengers would be too short to hit their head on the crossbar. The cargo capacity is the major plus for most buyers.
The crossbeam should be clear transparent then you could see out the back or Tesla could cut the middle of the beam to make see to look back redesign it.
so I should stick with my 3 and get a small trailer for hauling stuff? Surprising that the cross bar encroaches on headroom, was the seat tilted back (does it even do that?)
I actually show all three positions in the rear seat a few times. Upright, I do not have an issue. My head contacts the crossbeam with both of the reclined positions.
This is information I was looking for. I’m 6’6” and my brother is 6’7”, so him riding in the back seat would be impossible. I was thinking something similar about the rear view, but the rear cross-bar is a show stopper for me. I think I’ll get a Model 3, after I confirm that I do indeed fit! I think it’s likely that I will. The Now You Know guys once interviewed someone who was 6’5” and he said there was enough room, but we’ll see.
Good review - thanks. We don't have the Y in the UK in RH drive to try out. Some other benefits of the Y are now carried over into the 3 so the differences are closer. The visibility out of the back vs load capacity in the back seems to be the main trade-offs. If you have access to another car then the 3 has many advantages when comparing them. But, when it has been bought and you settle in then this won't matter as you quickly adapt to any car. The rearview camera and map combo would likely only be introduced to both models so that it is not seen as essential for the Y. Did you mention that the turning circle is smaller for the 3 which is another big plus and might help with parallel parking which we are fond of in Europe.
I didn’t get enough driving time to judge the turning radius. Like I said in the video, this was not the video I *wanted* to make, but it was the video that I *could* make under the circumstances. The Model 3 turning radius isn’t that great for its size, either, so I can’t imagine having a worse one with the Y.
The way a headrest protects your neck is by stopping the rearward momentum of your head with your neck in a neutral alignment. The crossbeam prevents this from happening. Plus, it’s hard while the headrest is soft.
I never knew the back seat’s head rest was that low. Good demonstrations about that low awful head rest in the back seat. Not unless Tesla forgot about that. Or was designed for the short people and forgotten about the taller people. Such a beautiful car, but that back seat’s head rest is dangerous and stupidly deadly. You had already explained and touched in the area of that dangerous area if the car gotten into a rear or side accident collision. That’s something Tesla need to redesign and fix.
hope the 3 gets a little refresh soon! blacked out chrome and dang, a hatchback version would be nice. I would also, if I'm just allowing myself to dream, have a front window that allows for more visibility overhead like the X.
@@TheTechofTech Awesome thanks! I'm picking up my Model 3 Long Range today and I'm thinking about starting a UA-cam channel as well! Thanks for the reply and great video content!
Good catch. I think it is a valid question as to how often you utilize your back seat and how often you have full grown adults in the back. Someone with young kids for example or no kids might not use it. Its a very good catch though and totally something worth considering.
would be interested to know the difference in seat cushion height (adjusted to lowest) between the 3 and Y. Also - how do you have the 3 set up for your pup?
Our dog has never been in and will never be in our Model 3. When he comes along with us, we take our LX. He’s just too big to share a back seat with, and he’s too active to just stay in the back seat with people in the front. The front seats in the 3 and the Y are exactly the same. The riser is maybe 4” or so in the Y. Somebody has the exact height mentioned somewhere, I’m sure.
M3 owner with 69k miles since May 30, 2018. The heat pump (cold weather) and storage capacity are keys for me. The hatchback and ability to crash in the car when needed might be worth it to me. I have FSD is paid for so I probably will not take the plunge for cost reasons. Cybertruck next up.
You can sleep in your Model 3 quite comfortably. I just did a camping trip with mine. The Y will be even *more* comfortable, for sure, but the Model 3 is very capable as a sleeper. ua-cam.com/video/OGiyxX-3uvU/v-deo.html
@@TheTechofTech Right. I am thinking about getting that pad but could use my 6 inch blow up in MY. I like prospect of using the pad with 60/40 seat slit option. You do good work.
well i can tell you for sure that in testing the side impact of a y has more intrusion which is worse than the 3 if you noticed that the side mirrors are taller but less wide and doesnt have auto dim or anti fog the cross beam in back on y is 27in from the floor this is really low making it one of the few hatch backs in its class to not have room for futon or utilitarian use. the deep tub in rear will be moved forward for the 7 seater so no storage tub area. if you noticed that the seating in y is so much higher so they had to raise the roof this made the side windows so much bigger so now it looks like a clown car. you spend 5000 more for y but get so many things taken away like range efficiency speed quickness stability safety handling and if you fold the seats flat in 3 and y you only gain a difference of 7 cubic feet. the y may get a recall because it breaks the law having a flat easy bottom under driver seat for rear items to intrude into front foot peddle area. the ground clearance is the same as the 3 if they both share the same rim size so if they both have the 19 inch rims the ground clearance is same for every inch bigger the rime the car is raised .5in.
@@TheTechofTech the intrusion is based on a few factors 1 the model 3 was over engineered framing, excessive firewall, rear shelf structure, the skateboard is closer to the over head structure and the the cross member is connected to the b pillar all contributing factors as well as the model 3 now has better welds they model y has crash testing and the intrusion on the model y is exceptional but still not as good as the model 3. thats an oversight i missed that the model 3 mirrors changed..... i doubt this as i believe that would require new federal file as all exterior or structural changes require federal file and this is done once per year. cost alot to file over a mirror and why the model 3 has a 2 in more narrow stance the y. can afford bigger mirrors to stay in spec on 3
You doubt I know that Tesla has downgraded the side mirrors in the Model 3? Instead of typing out your reason for doubting, you could've just googled it and gotten the facts. teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/no-more-auto-dimming-mirrors-on-model-3.188554/ I'll wait for the Model Y crash tests.
@@TheTechofTech actually try to search came up with nothing. nothing to me means no change now i need to go see new delivery cars to see if the model 3 has those ugly model y mirrors. the only thing i learn from google as many descriptions on many items have changed not that the item was changed just that words were added or removed or even changed for millions of reasons... like my car has enhanced auto pilot but the word enhanced was removed but the added features remain unless your saying the mirrors are same just removed 1 feature from them by og point was that the y has ugly square mirrors and 3 looks sporty
Thanks for this different side of the reviews I have watched. I'm mostly will be getting my first Tesla soon but this info helps a lot. Leaning towards the M3 as I have a 2016 Mazda 3 and I'm sure space wise is the space but a bit more with fronk and trunk space. Thanks again!
Sitting here, spending my evening researching Tesla Model 3 vs Y, find this video, and press play. I was so confused as i was watching the first part, I was like WAAAAIT, am I watching a Tesla video or a Twang n Bang video??? Love your other content and now awesome to find you here! ;-)
@@TheTechofTech Well i was very glad to see a guy I have come to trust opinion wise for a long time now giving me his good opinion about another topic i was needing feedback on! Great job on the video!
On Wednesday I will take a test drive in the Model Y at the West Palm Beach, FL service center. My 8/2018 metallic silver Model 3 dual-motor likewise has just over 30K miles on the odo. (Love the bright silver color and wish Tesla would bring it back!) As a big, 6’4” guy, I really appreciated your thorough review of the Y and it gives me some good points of reference for my test drive. If I decide to trade in, I’ll wait another year or two for Tesla to get the early production issues corrected and possibly include other improvements, like the new million-mile battery. I also wish I could transfer my FSD upgrade to any new model Y rather than having to pay full price.
Tesla really needs to allow people to transfer the FSD people like you and I bought over EAP as there haven’t been any useable features before just a month ago. Even then, Intersection Control is about drivers teaching the AI and not about being super useful yet. Our Model 3s were probably built in the same batch, given that they batched colors together. I actually saw two other Silver Metallic Dual Motors in the lot when I picked mine up, and they had VINs consecutive with mine. Mine is 651XX.
The Tech of Tech -- Yes, my VIN is the 651xx range also. There may be many silver metallic Teslas built in August 2018. I was told that this color option was discontinued by October.
Reality is, that the Model 3 has different things it can do better than the Model 3. Or even for the Model X (not sure about the Model S). I think the Y is really good at what it is meant for, and the model 3 too, both are great cars and the prize isn't too different. I personally would like the Model 3 more too, simply based on the looks and the slightly lower price tag, but I think with a family and maybe a dog, the Model Y is by far the better choice.
If your family includes children greater than 5'4" tall and a large dog like ours does, the Model Y is not the far better choice. Price difference is about $6,000 now, which is a big enough deal to choose carefully between the two.
I just test drove both for quite a while and came to same result--ordered a Model 3 asap and didn’t like the feel of the Model Y for many of the same reasons.
They do not, and not a one of those complaining that I don't know what I'm doing has provided any evidence of them sitting with the seat reclined, their head on the headrest, and not hitting their head. Some simply misunderstand what I'm doing. Others are intentionally being obtuse.
i do agree you leaning the seat all the way back with your incredibly large head is a recipe for disaster... but i wonder if you're really gonna sit like that for any trip. i'd be more worried about hitting potholes or speed bumps with you sitting that way. i totally understand your issue.. every person has their own dealbreaker. oh, and just for reference Doug DeMuro is 6'4 and sat in the back just fine. Brian Jenkins of i1Tesla is 6'5 sat in the back just fine. maybe the Tesla community should question them why they didn't bring that to attention.
Neither of those guys tried to put their heads on the headrest. That is not “just fine.” I’m a Clinical Exercise Physiologist who specializes in post-injury reconditioning, and my wife is a spine specialist. We deal with neck injuries all the time, which is why we always test headrests anytime we test drive a car.
The rear cross beam position is a concern for blocking the rear view and discomfort for tall people by some reviews (I do not have hands-on experience), which can be huge disadvantages for some people. For front seats, the cross beam in Model 3 does not block the sky view at all and is safer for wider rear view. I wish Tesla will change it for future Model Y. Model 3 is about 10% faster than Model Y. For overall shape design I think Model 3 is better. For those reasons, I like my Model 3 better. Do not get me wrong, Model Y does have advantage for SUV nature, like bigger space and higher seats etc.
You guys from The Tech of Tech didn’t watch Sandy Munro Model Y teardown 40 episodes on UA-cam. He absolutely claims that Model Y i s way better built and assembled than Model 3. He doesn’t recommend Mode 3 but does recommend Mode Y.
He only cares about manufacturing and does not really spend a lot of time evaluating cars by how they’re used. BTW, he was once the Model 3’s biggest cheerleader. Did that change?
True. Being stuck at home with pandemic, i watched pretty much all his episodes 🤪. He did compare several times with model 3 from manufacturing perspective and pointed improvements. I dont know what he said about Model 3 before, but at the last episode he clearly stated that he never recommended any EV until now (meaning Model Y) He was quite happy with Model Y body integrity, very impressed with heat pump and some other innovative solutions
Munro totally recommended the Model 3 before. Not sure what's going on there. He had a lot of ways to improve the manufacturing method, but he once did a whole video on recanting some of his early views on the Model 3 that he formed before spending a lot of time with it. Weird.
@@TheTechofTech I don't think you watched the same model 3 teardown that I watched. Sandy Munro was very impressed with the Model 3 Tech, the design of the electric motors and computer. But as far as fit and finish and the manufacturing design that required a vast number of welds and fasteners, he was highly critical. As far as rear visibility is concerned, what you showed was a camera view of the rear interior. What does it actually look like when you video the mirror itself? I know that on the 3 the mirror shows the rear window plus the frame around it. The rest of the interior isn't present in your field of vision. As you pointed out the side mirrors are more than adequate and if they are adjusted as wide as possible there isn't much in the way of blind spots. Additionally, there is the display on the touch screen that shows the surrounding vehicles. Add the lane assist steering & or alarms and you are pretty well taken care of. I agree that having a split screen that includes both the map and the rear camera would be a fine addition but not absolutely necessary given how many eyes that Teslas already have.
If you need the cargo space, rear legroom and higher sitting position Model 3 is a complete non-starter. If you don't...then you already own a 3 and don't need a Model Y.
I wonder how much of an aerodynamic penalty would come with a higher roof and a more nearly vertical rear window. The model Y has a classic hatchback profile and is far from having enough utility to justify being classified as an "SUV". Nothing wrong with hatchbacks, they have their place. But tall roof boxy wagons/SUVs can carry a lot more.
I’d be very happy with a 250 mile range in something more like a Lexus RX350 than the Model Y. However, I’d still get a Model Y over an RX350 because of the drivetrain.
I think the Model 3 is a great car. It feels more sporty and handles better than the Y. Although I do believe that it's a fair tradeoff to get the Y over the 3. You get more cargo space, you get more seating space. You get that huge uninterrupted piece of glass above you. And you have those awesome 21" Uberturbine rims on the performance model. That's just my opinion though...
The unexpected irony is that the rear seat of the Y is actually narrower than that of the 3 because it's tucked further back between the rear wheel wells. You do get a lot more leg room and a more comfortable bench height, though.
it's because Tesla has a easy button to click to turn it on and once it's on it will continue turning on by default because the rear view mirror doesn't show shit in the middle. The rear view glass is completely useless
I've driven the Performance Model Y. I'm really glad you mentioned that the second row was narrower than the 3!! At first I thought it was just my imagination because while the leg and shoulder room was better than the 3 the width proportions were "off". Personally, I didn't think the suspension was as harsh as people have been saying but everyone should make their own decision. Fortunately, customers looking for a new EV crossover aren't stuck with only a Y to choose from. There are other choices available now or soon coming to market that might be worth considering. Volvo XC40 Kia Niro EV Polestar 2 Mustang Mach-E Hyundai Kona Electric Audi Q4 e-tron VW ID.4
@@TheTechofTech I can see how a kid's car seat and a dog just make the 3 a challenge as a family vehicle and the Y will work better. You're right about the compromises. Tesla forced itself to make the majority of Model 3 parts fit in the Y and the result was inelegant. I understand now why Elon Musk never got excited about the Model Y. Tesla is gonna sell a gazillion of them though so that's nice.
Look at 4:43, the back seats don’t line up, that is a big flaw, I saw another video of someone else complaining about this and this car has the same issue
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@@wessides1536 stupid
if the 3 was a hatchback.. it wouldve been the perfect vehicle imo.
I agree. I was also hoping the Y would've been a bit more square in the back than it is even if it meant less range.
If it had a hatchback it would have the same rear passenger issues and rear visibility issues that the model Y has so it wouldn’t be the perfect vehicle imo 🙂
The S is a hatchback without any of these issues.
The Tech of Tech The S isn’t a Model 3 as the original post says 🙂
I know, but the S was able to be a hatchback without “the same rear passenger issues and rear visibility issues.” Tesla obviously made some design choices for the Y that constrained the location of the crossbeam, but it wasn’t the fact that they started with a sedan. The Model S is proof of that.
I'm 5'8 as well. I just got done test driving the Model Y today and had completely different results. With the rear seats reclined fully back my head was only touching the head rest and I'd venture to say I had approx 2.5 inches before I would have hit the rear cross bar with my head. I would not be surprised if you have a longer than average torso as the rear cross bar was not an issue for me or my spouse and we are the same height as you.
That’s an incredibly different experience, but it’s why my message was for people to confirm for themselves before making a decision.
Keep in mind the forces when you crash can be very high, so you must take that into consideration before you deem it safe to sit there.
i am 6'1'' and i just checked mine out after watching your video. It's true if the seat is reclined all the way my head touches the cross bar. If I bring the seat back up one notch it was comfortable and not an issue for me sitting normally. If you are tall you can't recline the rear seats all the way without hitting your head.
No way you can put your head on the headrest without being fully upright. It’s not just about sitting- it’s about safety.
Thank you for mentioning your height. We have a Y on order. Husband is 6'1 as well.
@@TheTechofTech If we call fully upright position 1 and fully reclined position 3, position 1 there is no head room issues. Position 2 if i "try" to touch the crossbar (buy stretching out) with my head i can barely graze it. position 3 is unusable for me due to hitting my head on the cross bar. This is just sitting in my driveway not riding around, I would have to test it out while being driven around to see if going over bumps was an issue in position 2. That all said, position 1 is comfortable for me (sitting in the driveway, i have not taken a long drive while in the back seat yet)
What I mean is, think about what your head would hit if you were in Position 2 and were rear ended. That’s my concern for that position more so than comfort.
For me at 6ft tall, I appreciate being able to sit in the upright position without my head hitting the ceiling. In the Model 3 backseat, I cannot sit in any position without my head hitting. I am waiting on the standard range Model Y and I will leave the backseat reclining for my kids while adults can at least sit comfortably with the seat upright unlike in the Model 3.
I have a Model Y on order and after reading this review, decided I'd better investigate this crossbeam thing in case it was a big deal. I want my friends and family to be able to sit in the back safely and comfortably.
I'm happy to say that, for me at least, this is non-issue. I took a trip to the Tesla dealer and sat in the back of their Model Y demo. I'm a bit over 6' 1" and I fit just fine with all but the very furthest reclined position. Even with that setting, I could slouch a bit and be safe. Not that I plan to do that.
No biggie at all but you should check for yourself, as I believe was mentioned in the video.
I've been trying to decide between the Model 3 and the Y (I am a long legged 5'-8" guy). I have looked at a number of articles and videos comparing the two. This is the first one that really addresses the difference in feel due to the height and seating. I also very much appreciate the comments from those of you who have experienced both. With the 3 I would get 27 more miles of range and be $4000 richer.
I am a long legged 5,11 guy and I want to see the if the Model Y will give me more leg space. The model 3 is a bit cramped for me.
I haven’t seen the “Y” but based on your review, the rear window visibility would be a deal breaker. I am 6’4” but when I sat inside a “3” a few months ago, I found the car to be very comfortable.
Wow! other reviewers for sure failed to mention these drawbacks, way to go highlighting them. This definitely makes me appreciate my M3 AWD that much more.
That’s definitely how I felt after my test drive. I came away liking our Dual Motor Model 3 even more.
Ditto!
The model Y is ugly and the interior room is not good for a SUV. I think the Model 3 is the best car they make for the money. They truly nailed the Model 3. But they failed with this. A lot of you tubers are Tesla fanboys. Tesla really needs to improve their interiors and overall quality.
I noticed the same when I test drove the model Y. My head was hitting the cross beam when I sat in the back seats. I had to slouch to avoid that.
That was a really good point regarding the crossbeam and its rear view. Thank you, I hope that they fix this in future models.
buy 3 if you want performance / drivers car. Buy a Y if you need to move the family around
what about if ur tall and need a lot of leg room? which one?
@@jgrant2064 model y you get more room
There’s a ridiculous amount of leg room in the 3, don’t make your decision based on that. I mean it seems impossible how much room there is relative to the size of the car.
@@mellowphantpi9168 yeah but the seat length is much shorter on M3, so if you have a long leg, your legs will be floating with no seat underneath your leg/thighs.
That’s enlightening. The visibility is already bad in the 3 I can’t imagine what it’s like in the Y.
Really good honest review. I was tossing up waiting for a Model Y(not available yet in my country) or go for Model 3. You have helped me make my decision! Thank you! (Model 3 it is!)
Glad I could help!
I don’t think Tesla understands an suv shouldn’t function like a slightly bigger version of their sedan. That rear visibility is horrible and there’s no way they can fit more seats behind the middle. I understand having limited foot room but limited head room in what’s supposed to be an suv is ridiculous. I like teslas but unless they do a serious redesign I don’t see this being a real family car like it should’ve been
I really wish there were a lot more "U" in this "CUV," for sure.
Looks like 3rd row will face backward with legs in that “pit” in the trunk
I hope some day they make one, because I don't see any SUVs in their lineup. Just various shapes of sedans and hatchbacks.
Fascinating review. I believe the model 3 handles better, so there's that as well as the rear seat and rear view issues.
I have never used inside rear view mirror for backing up. Always rear view camera which is displayed on the big screen
I've had my Model Y for 10 days now, and I wish I had seen this video before I pulled the trigger. The rear visibility is really terrible, especially at night with the auto-dim mirror. Combined with the tinted window, the rearview mirror is virtually useless after dark. What persuaded me to get a Y is not the cargo space, which I don't need, but rather the ease of exiting and entering. (A family member has mobility issues.) And I like the extra ground clearance the Y gives me. But I sure wish there were a way to overcome the rear visibility problem.
Interesting observation. I’d never heard the crossbeam issue mentioned either. I’m 6’4” and won’t be riding in the rear seat, but I’m going to need to take a closer look before I take delivery of the Y I have on order.
That's my main goal is to get prospective buyers to try out the back seat for themselves before committing.
Model 3 for me. I always preferred sports cars. I've owned Austin-Healey, Sunbeam, three Porsches. Never cared for station wagons, vans, or SUVs. Prefer low, hugging the road cars. Drove over 100 miles in Arkansas mountains today, the Model 3's one pedal driving through the continuous curves is outstanding. But, many years ago I did drive a truck do got my fill of sitting up high.
Agreed but a sport station wagon can potentially be a beautiful thing.
Having driven both extensively I enjoy driving the 3 over the Y hands down! The model Y feels like driving an empty shoe box vs the 3 that feels firm and compact. Just my opinion. Room wise the Y is better but the ride is not as enjoyable I think.
Probably one of the better plain vanilla but unbiased videos on the MY. You’re right , it’s not a popular opinion as it’ll probably irk some hardcore Tesla fanboys. I actually deferred delivery of my MY last week because of other issues, but I’m so glad I saw this video. Really makes me wonder now if I should take delivery when that time comes again. Or maybe just go with a 3. Regardless, thank you for the two “flaws” in the car that a software update won’t be able to fix.
Yes. Test drive a Y and a 3 if you haven’t already. The Model 3 is awesome, and right now, it’s about $6000 less equivalently-equipped.
Here I’ve been thinking the Model Y was simply a hatchback 3 with no trade offs. I had no intention of trading the 3 on a Y but I wished I had waited. That rear visibility would have driven me nuts
Thanks Cam. I agree. I had a chance to drive a Y last week for half an hour. I was underwhelmed. It was a stealth performance model (19" wheels). I felt quite a bit of torque steer on launch. I love the tighter handling of my non performance Dual motor 3 much better. And the back seat, wasn't what I thought it would be as well. It's nuanced differences between the two.
I didn't do any launches because it was a personal vehicle of a Tesla employee, but that's interesting to note torque steer. There were a few other finish details that felt extra cheap to me throughout, but I didn't mention them in this video because I didn't want to dilute the greater issue with the crossbeam's position.
That bumping against the crossbar is probably because the seats are all the way back. The bench is movable to switch between storage and legroom and putting it more forward should fix that. I agree that it is still a design flaw.
No, the bench is not on slides in the 5-seater. It will be in the 7-seater.
@@TheTechofTech I didn't know that. I thought both models had that feature. Thanks for the info. Makes me even happier I ordered a Model 3 instead of the Y. Maybe the next gen won't have these kind of design oversights.
Thanks for having the courage to highlight the negative points. I am so tempted to trade the 3 for a Y just because it really could use a hatchback.
Make sure you get some time in one before making that decision. The hatchback feature is really nice, but there are some big tradeoffs, for sure.
We own both. I tell people everytime I talk about the cars that I'd pick the Y if I had to choose 1. No question.
WAY more room than the 3. However, I love how the 3 drives & love having both
Good data point.
This is valuable info for someone in the market for a Y. Great job!!
I am considering trading in my M3 for a MY. Even on my M3, I find the rear visibility pretty bad so I am very concerned about how I can ignore that it's worse on the MY. But what's most concerning is the issue you pointed about safety with the rear passengers and that crossbar. Thanks for sharing this, it was very valuable.
My main point is to get prospective Model Y buyers to try them before committing.
Thanks for this video. I suppose Tesla only expects shorter passengers or kids to use the recline feature of the rear seats. Tall people should not use the recline function if their head touches the crossbeam for the safety reasons you point out. I’m only 5’3 and would love to sit in the rear seat of the model y on a long trip.
The Model Y with 3rd row option will most likely have the 2nd row on rails so it can slide forward for accessing the 3rd row and for giving the 3rd row more leg room. This would mean the second row could be moved forward a few inches, solving the issue with hitting your head when reclining in the second row.
Yes, I think that has been mentioned.
Thank you for this. Yours is an uncommon opinion which I appreciate. So many Tesla UA-cam reviewers just repeat what everyone else has said. Thanks for daring to be different and giving an honest opinion!
Thanks for watching!
5:09 Always good to see what that angry white guy that honks his horn after .5 seconds after the light turns green looks like.
Can’t tell if you’re race baiting because you’re a Russian bot or because that’s just the way you are. The light was green for way longer than that, and I could see the driver in front of me still looking at her phone through her mirror.
If the range were closer between the 3 & Y, I may opt for the Y. But I am thinking more about the 3 now due to range.
Range is overrated. We’ve never felt we needed more than the 310 miles of range our Model 3 is rated for. We don’t come anywhere near that in daily driving, and on road trips, we’re wanting to stop to pee and stretch every couple of hours anyway, so we don’t need 5 hours of range. I advise you to get the vehicle you want between the two, knowing that both have way more range than you’ll ever likely need.
I'm 6'1" and I do not fit in the Model 3 rear at all. The top of my head hits the glass. I would say neither vehicle gives much priority to rear passenger occupants. Model Y visibility is unacceptable.
That’s interesting to know.
I was initially concerned about it, but once I've started driving, I've never once been bothered by it. There's more than enough visibility between the mirrors, rear window, and digital display of traffic to feel very comfortable. Also sitting up higher helps my vantage point.
When you sat in the back seat of your Model3. It appears the left side of your head is very close to the side beam. If your model3 was hit from the side, would your head hit the beam?
That side beam is literally where the side curtain airbags pop out of, so not likely.
@@TheTechofTech Well, depending on the type of accident, the airbag just might not deploy. Also, speaking of airbags, I wonder if there's an airbag in the crossbeam? I Doubt it but it's possible they thought the issue through somewhat.
The funny thing is that when I test drove a model Y at my local tesla dealership, I actually thought the side mirrors were incredibly small, so the fact you say the model 3 side mirrors are half the size of a model y's mirrors actually make me want to get a model y more, haha. Yes, the rear view is absolutely awful, but I think it's something you can get used to over time.
I am currently looking at a Tesla and was leaning towards the Y just for the extra cargo space. In Canada the difference between the M3 Sr+ and the MYLR is $22k because the 3 gets the $5k federal incentive so it's really a no brainer at that point. Great video.
Glad you found the video helpful!
One of the answers to helping with this problem of visibility and rear headroom. Is to stop building cars with idiotic glass roofs. It gives you so much more freedom if the entire roof is made of steel because then you can put the hinge points for the liftgate in more convenient locations. I do not understand the purpose of having a giant greenhouse over your head so you can bake in the sun and have to run the air conditioning colder and use even more battery. Not to mention the glass is very heavy.
Thanks for the review. This is the first review of the Model Y I have seen that has anything negative to say. When I bought my Model 3 I test drove a Model 3 Performance and to me it was a bit stiff on the ride and a thing that many people don't consider is that it is very easy to damage a rim/tire when they are that low profile. Your opinion may be unpopular but it is your opinion. When I got my Model 3 it had a couple of issues so Tesla took it back and gave me a Model S as a loaner. At first I thought, oh no I am gonna love this and have to trade up to a Model S. However I did not like the Model S nearly as much as my Model 3. That was also an unpopular opinion because the $94K car is supposed to be way better than the $58K car. I would pick the Model 3 even if it was the same price as the Model S. I like the overall styling of the Model Y but I see nothing that would compel me to trade in my Model 3.
I think a lot of people share our opinion that the Model 3 is more fun to drive than the Model S... sort of. I haven’t driven any since the new Raven suspension, so I can’t really say if I’d still feel the same way.
The Tech of Tech for me it was more about the interior styling. Model S handled well although it was clearly not as nimble as the Model 3. I love the exterior styling of the Model S and the lift back design is great.
Yeah I have never seen the problem you were having. The rear headrests do raise a bit too. We’ve had two model Y’s for a total of 3-4 years and found no real flaws like that. Even the rear visibility, was never a problem though I can imagine it is nice to see more. I’m just used to it I guess. The only reason to get a model y is the extra space for sure, but it’s an incredible car especially buying used nowadays at 35k.
I was all set to jump to a Tesla and drove the Model Y. HATED IT. The ride was terrible, the visibility was awful, and the glass roof was like being in a greenhouse. Then I drove the Model 3, and fell in love with it. Ordered one immediately and just over 3 months later it was delivered (this is just over 30 days ago). Not regretting my decision in the least.
You know I've been in the rear seats of the model y recently (twice) and I'm 5' 10" and my head doesn't hit the cross beam when fully reclined. Actually have pretty good clearance.
Interesting to see the variability in torso lengths. My point was always for people to try it out themselves and make sure they can place their heads on the headrest without coming into contact with the crossbeam.
It’s interesting that most of the Model Y videos I’ve seen have some issue with the power rear seat release not working properly.
Yep. It's the kind of thing I'm sure they'll sort out, but they haven't cracked that nut with full production yet.
Great review. I have not driven one yet. There are some positives with the Y but I’m pretty happy with my 3.
Looking forward to the CyberTruck - may be closer to what I want than the Y.
Thank you for the review!
Stay safe and healthy!
I drove both Performance models.
M3P is far better for enthusiasts., in handling, cornering and acceleration. I bought the right one before the Y came out ;)
Far better is an overstatement.
I have a Model 3, and so does my wife, and we're coming from over 25 years of Honda Civics, so we are very happy, and they actually feel kind of large to us. Our kids are grown up and living elsewhere, so we don't exactly covet the Model Y's even larger size, and like the sporty handling of our Model 3s, and the range of my 2018 Model 3 LR AWD with 18" tires for those trips to visit distant family.
When watching the Model Y videos, I had noticed that the sliver of rear window visible via the rear view mirror was lower than in the Model 3, and I really appreciate you getting into the implications of rear passenger heads touching the rear cross-beam. I had seen other Model Y videos briefly mention that their head touched the cross beam only when reclined.
Great work!
It’s more than just touching. It’s big time intrusion for me.
'09 Civic LX-S 5spd to '19 SR+. I still can't believe how much fun this thing is.
SherlocckHolmez Sure feel the same way, still grinning 30,000 miles later, best purchases my wife and I ever made!
I think even the model 3 has reduced rear visibility but that seems to be the trend these days.
Thank you. Might be the most important video regarding our next Tesla purchase
Glad it was helpful!
Welcome to the life of being 6’ +. I have not been in a car backseat where my head doesn’t hit the ceiling since I was a kid.
Sure, but I’m only 5’8”, and I think people even shorter than that will hit their heads when reclined.
You’ve been 6’ since you were a kid?
Firs Name Last Name His poor mother
I don't put my head on headrests anyways. Also the bench is soooo low on the 3 and my head is on the glass in that car. I think for me, a very tall person, the Y backseat would actually be more comfortable. I will agree that the headroom seems a safety issue.
Headrests are actually there to protect your neck in a rear end collision. If you can’t put your head on the headrest, your neck isn’t being protected. That’s my main point.
@@TheTechofTech Yeah like I said I think that's a safety issue too. I just think it personally wouldn't prevent a comfort issue , or at the very least would be better than 3. I see the 3's backseat as among the worst.
Thanks for highlighting this potential issue with the bar across back as I am thinking of replacing my model X with a Y in the future. I don’t think much of an issue in my case, as only my wife (5’ 2”) or young son would usually ever be in the back. I wish Tesla would do something with the rear camera to allow smaller window on screen for viewing (like picture in picture on iPad) while having navigation visible. Having both navigation and rear camera up all the time is big advantage of model X portrait screen
Jonathan Tuba 2 I prefer the portrait look.
Tina Clark aka Aunt Tina I think the portrait screen is better driving. The landscape is only better for watching Netflix while at Supercharger
Hi. Can i just seek some clarification please? What do you mean by the side mirrors are "taller". And at one point you say "they're twice as tall". I don't really understand that. Thanks.
That overhead beam does seem to be a nuisance. Personally, it is the glass roofs that stop me from wanting either the 3 or the Y. I like solid metal obove me, and I keep the covers pulled over moon roofs etc. The street lights passing overhead irritate me.
I talk about this in my video on the Model 3’s safety (ua-cam.com/video/bkayYiwrjyQ/v-deo.html), but laminated glass used in Tesla roofs is actually stronger than the thin sheet metal used for roofs in other vehicles. You should see the photos of the Model 3 that rolled multiple times at 75mph.
@@TheTechofTech Yes it is a safe material. Very safe car overall. I just don't like that you can see light through it. I don't like that it is transparent.
Ahhh. Understood.
I’m really confused. We own an April 2021 LR Model Y and my head doesn’t touch the crossbeam on the second row even I’m *6 ft tall*. 🤷♂️
You can sit with your head back on the headrest and not hit the crossbeam?
Yeah ive seen other tall reviewers with their heads not touching.
Great video! Very informative with the 3/Y comparison. That rear crossbeam issue would be a instant deal breaker for many.
I just hope to get more people checking it out for themselves before buying a Y over a 3.
Not really an issue for us at all. No one has complained. Plus, I'm 6'3" & fit. Leg room is a bigger problem in the 3 than the crossbeam in the Y
It's not about fit when sitting- it's about what your head is going to hit if you're rear ended. If you aren't testing to see if you can put your head on the headrest without hitting the crossbeam, then you haven't evaluated what I'm talking about in this video.
I am 6'3" with the torso of someone 6'6" and I am going to be test driving and potentially buying DÆrik's Model Y today. I will definitely check out the issues you highlighted; especially the rear headroom.
Make sure you try to put your head on the headrest and not just sit there.
@@TheTechofTech I actually had plenty of headroom as long as I didn't lean the seat back. Leaned back I was definitely resting my head on the beam.
So, my point in the video is not about headroom. It's about safety. If your head hits the crossbeam before meeting the headrest in a rearend collision, the risk of injury to your head and neck is likely much greater than if your head were instead cradled by the headrest. Headrests are designed to stop the rearward momentum of your head with your neck in neutral alignment. No way your neck will be in neutral alignment hitting the crossbeam in such an accident.
Great review. Some very good
Points in decision making. I am currently deciding on one and was going to test drive both as well. But that rear crossbar is really breaking me on the model y
Just be sure to try it out for yourself. Don’t decide over the internet either way, but at least you have more to be looking for when you test drive.
As an owner of a model 3 LR, something very important in the UK (and europe) is the extra width of the model Y is significant. I know this is not important in the US as the roads are straight and there is more space, but a wider car is a problem down back roads. Thank you for the review - those points are significant.
Given that the UK is full small roads and tight bends, the model 3 is a wonderful drive on these and the best handling car I ever had.
I minor nice thing I have found which I wonder is built into the AI is that I find the car very easy to keep to a required speed when no cruise/auto-pilot is engaged. If I drive at 30mph in a town and keep looking at the speed, it holds this without having to keep adjusting the throttle, much easier to keep legal than other cars I have had.
I use Autopilot constantly for the same reason. Keeps me out of trouble with the law.
Biggest issue I noted during my model Y test drive is the lowered rear view mirror which blocks my forward visibility! I’d like the model Y rear view mirror to be mounted like the model 3 rear view mirror.
Interesting. Probably impossible to mount higher while allowing you to see straight behind you due to the position of the rear crossbeam.
I own a model 3. I have a model Y loner right now while the 3 is in the shop. 3 wins hands down.
I'm 6'2" and didn't hit my head on the crossbeam. Watching the video at the 12:50 mark it looks like you had the seat very reclined. Try it more upright and the problem is solved.
I said upright was fine and that reclined is the issue.
The Tech of Tech ok thanks. I missed that.
yea that cross beam right behind the passenger head rest when reclined is not great.
I guess it had to go there for the hatchback, but I wish the design were more like the Model S.
It seems like it would have just been better to eliminate the ability for the back seats to recline.
I'm 6'3", it's really not an issue & no one has ever complained about it in our Y
Thanks for your review. Drove Model Y and I agree. Waiting on Cybertruck as our second BEV.
Thanks for watching!
Wow! Thank you for this review. The visibility (lack of) in the back would drive me crazy. I'm also very concerned about the pack seat passengers who would hit their head on the support beam just behind the head rest. I think most other reviews focused too much on the driving and ignored issues with the back seats. Model 3 maybe for me, or Cybertruck.
Awesome awesome review and comparison. Very honest, clear and great points, thank you!
Thanks for watching!
Model Y will have sliding second row seats, so if you're worried about the thing above your neck, you can slide forward like ~5 inches.
Only the 7-seater will. This 5-seat model doesn’t hav a sliding bench.
I think that rear back cross beam is where it is to support the hinges on the hatchback. The Model S must have a similar issue. Maybe having rear airbags inside the trim covering the beam would help in a collision?
If we get a model Y most of the time the rear seat will be folded down as it's now just my wife and I. So the Model Y would be able to replace our Dodge Caravan as the shopping hauler. Having the rear camera on all the time wouldn't be an issue as we rarely need the navigation locally. If you can leave the camera on and have the navigation in voice mode, that would work (that's how we use our cellphones as GPS, only need to see the screen for a quick 'look ahead' or to initially set up the target. I will test drive all three of the Tesla's I might consider before buying one (which is probably a year or two out from now). I would consider the model's S, 3, and Y, but not the model X (too many issues with those doors!). As a hatchback, with its ginormous range, the model S well worth considering if you are in a bind between the 3 and the Y.
How often do you have adults in the back seat? I almost never do. 99.9% of my back seat passengers would be too short to hit their head on the crossbar.
The cargo capacity is the major plus for most buyers.
I have a full-grown teenager. She and her friends fill the car.
The Tech of Tech I hear ya there.
Thank you for this video... I was torn between the 2 models... You made some very good points. Ty👍🏼
Just be sure to try them out for yourself.
The crossbeam should be clear transparent then you could see out the back or Tesla could cut the middle of the beam to make see to look back redesign it.
It’s very important to the structure, so they could only move it.
so I should stick with my 3 and get a small trailer for hauling stuff? Surprising that the cross bar encroaches on headroom, was the seat tilted back (does it even do that?)
I actually show all three positions in the rear seat a few times. Upright, I do not have an issue. My head contacts the crossbeam with both of the reclined positions.
Perfectly happy with my 2018 TM3. For increased utility I’ll have the CyberTruck
This is information I was looking for. I’m 6’6” and my brother is 6’7”, so him riding in the back seat would be impossible. I was thinking something similar about the rear view, but the rear cross-bar is a show stopper for me. I think I’ll get a Model 3, after I confirm that I do indeed fit! I think it’s likely that I will. The Now You Know guys once interviewed someone who was 6’5” and he said there was enough room, but we’ll see.
The main thing is to try them before making a decision.
What do you decide? Did you get the M3 or the MY?
Good review - thanks. We don't have the Y in the UK in RH drive to try out. Some other benefits of the Y are now carried over into the 3 so the differences are closer. The visibility out of the back vs load capacity in the back seems to be the main trade-offs. If you have access to another car then the 3 has many advantages when comparing them. But, when it has been bought and you settle in then this won't matter as you quickly adapt to any car. The rearview camera and map combo would likely only be introduced to both models so that it is not seen as essential for the Y. Did you mention that the turning circle is smaller for the 3 which is another big plus and might help with parallel parking which we are fond of in Europe.
I didn’t get enough driving time to judge the turning radius. Like I said in the video, this was not the video I *wanted* to make, but it was the video that I *could* make under the circumstances.
The Model 3 turning radius isn’t that great for its size, either, so I can’t imagine having a worse one with the Y.
I would disagree with you on the head injury issue. Shorter head travel in an impact would reduce injury. Comfort could be an issue. Nice walk through
The way a headrest protects your neck is by stopping the rearward momentum of your head with your neck in a neutral alignment. The crossbeam prevents this from happening. Plus, it’s hard while the headrest is soft.
I never knew the back seat’s head rest was that low. Good demonstrations about that low awful head rest in the back seat. Not unless Tesla forgot about that. Or was designed for the short people and forgotten about the taller people. Such a beautiful car, but that back seat’s head rest is dangerous and stupidly deadly. You had already explained and touched in the area of that dangerous area if the car gotten into a rear or side accident collision. That’s something Tesla need to redesign and fix.
hope the 3 gets a little refresh soon! blacked out chrome and dang, a hatchback version would be nice. I would also, if I'm just allowing myself to dream, have a front window that allows for more visibility overhead like the X.
Nice dream, but the S and X are in more need of refreshes than the 3, and we haven't seen anything significant other than a new suspension last year.
@@TheTechofTech agreed!
If you dont mind me asking, what 360 camera are you using that is mounted on the glass roof?
It’s the GoPro Max: amzn.to/2UrfS1y Love it!
@@TheTechofTech Awesome thanks! I'm picking up my Model 3 Long Range today and I'm thinking about starting a UA-cam channel as well! Thanks for the reply and great video content!
Good catch. I think it is a valid question as to how often you utilize your back seat and how often you have full grown adults in the back. Someone with young kids for example or no kids might not use it. Its a very good catch though and totally something worth considering.
Main thing is that I want people to try it for themselves before making a decision.
would be interested to know the difference in seat cushion height (adjusted to lowest) between the 3 and Y. Also - how do you have the 3 set up for your pup?
Our dog has never been in and will never be in our Model 3. When he comes along with us, we take our LX. He’s just too big to share a back seat with, and he’s too active to just stay in the back seat with people in the front.
The front seats in the 3 and the Y are exactly the same. The riser is maybe 4” or so in the Y. Somebody has the exact height mentioned somewhere, I’m sure.
M3 owner with 69k miles since May 30, 2018. The heat pump (cold weather) and storage capacity are keys for me. The hatchback and ability to crash in the car when needed might be worth it to me. I have FSD is paid for so I probably will not take the plunge for cost reasons. Cybertruck next up.
You can sleep in your Model 3 quite comfortably. I just did a camping trip with mine. The Y will be even *more* comfortable, for sure, but the Model 3 is very capable as a sleeper. ua-cam.com/video/OGiyxX-3uvU/v-deo.html
@@TheTechofTech Right. I am thinking about getting that pad but could use my 6 inch blow up in MY. I like prospect of using the pad with 60/40 seat slit option. You do good work.
Thanks!
well i can tell you for sure that in testing the side impact of a y has more intrusion which is worse than the 3 if you noticed that the side mirrors are taller but less wide and doesnt have auto dim or anti fog the cross beam in back on y is 27in from the floor this is really low making it one of the few hatch backs in its class to not have room for futon or utilitarian use. the deep tub in rear will be moved forward for the 7 seater so no storage tub area. if you noticed that the seating in y is so much higher so they had to raise the roof this made the side windows so much bigger so now it looks like a clown car. you spend 5000 more for y but get so many things taken away like range efficiency speed quickness stability safety handling and if you fold the seats flat in 3 and y you only gain a difference of 7 cubic feet. the y may get a recall because it breaks the law having a flat easy bottom under driver seat for rear items to intrude into front foot peddle area. the ground clearance is the same as the 3 if they both share the same rim size so if they both have the 19 inch rims the ground clearance is same for every inch bigger the rime the car is raised .5in.
You have seen crash test results for the Model Y? How?
Unfortunately, Tesla downgraded the mirrors on the Model 3, as well.
@@TheTechofTech the intrusion is based on a few factors 1 the model 3 was over engineered framing, excessive firewall, rear shelf structure, the skateboard is closer to the over head structure and the the cross member is connected to the b pillar all contributing factors as well as the model 3 now has better welds they model y has crash testing and the intrusion on the model y is exceptional but still not as good as the model 3.
thats an oversight i missed that the model 3 mirrors changed..... i doubt this as i believe that would require new federal file as all exterior or structural changes require federal file and this is done once per year. cost alot to file over a mirror and why the model 3 has a 2 in more narrow stance the y. can afford bigger mirrors to stay in spec on 3
You doubt I know that Tesla has downgraded the side mirrors in the Model 3? Instead of typing out your reason for doubting, you could've just googled it and gotten the facts. teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/no-more-auto-dimming-mirrors-on-model-3.188554/
I'll wait for the Model Y crash tests.
@@TheTechofTech actually try to search came up with nothing. nothing to me means no change now i need to go see new delivery cars to see if the model 3 has those ugly model y mirrors. the only thing i learn from google as many descriptions on many items have changed not that the item was changed just that words were added or removed or even changed for millions of reasons... like my car has enhanced auto pilot but the word enhanced was removed but the added features remain
unless your saying the mirrors are same just removed 1 feature from them by og point was that the y has ugly square mirrors and 3 looks sporty
I just love my model S more now
Thanks for this different side of the reviews I have watched. I'm mostly will be getting my first Tesla soon but this info helps a lot. Leaning towards the M3 as I have a 2016 Mazda 3 and I'm sure space wise is the space but a bit more with fronk and trunk space. Thanks again!
Consumers seems to agree with you. The google search interest of Model Y is a lot lower than Model 3.
That’s very interesting.
Sitting here, spending my evening researching Tesla Model 3 vs Y, find this video, and press play. I was so confused as i was watching the first part, I was like WAAAAIT, am I watching a Tesla video or a Twang n Bang video??? Love your other content and now awesome to find you here! ;-)
Ha! Yes, this is my tech channel and where I’m spending my time right now due to family stuff.
@@TheTechofTech Well i was very glad to see a guy I have come to trust opinion wise for a long time
now giving me his good opinion about another topic i was needing feedback on! Great job on the video!
On Wednesday I will take a test drive in the Model Y at the West Palm Beach, FL service center. My 8/2018 metallic silver Model 3 dual-motor likewise has just over 30K miles on the odo. (Love the bright silver color and wish Tesla would bring it back!) As a big, 6’4” guy, I really appreciated your thorough review of the Y and it gives me some good points of reference for my test drive. If I decide to trade in, I’ll wait another year or two for Tesla to get the early production issues corrected and possibly include other improvements, like the new million-mile battery. I also wish I could transfer my FSD upgrade to any new model Y rather than having to pay full price.
Tesla really needs to allow people to transfer the FSD people like you and I bought over EAP as there haven’t been any useable features before just a month ago. Even then, Intersection Control is about drivers teaching the AI and not about being super useful yet.
Our Model 3s were probably built in the same batch, given that they batched colors together. I actually saw two other Silver Metallic Dual Motors in the lot when I picked mine up, and they had VINs consecutive with mine. Mine is 651XX.
The Tech of Tech -- Yes, my VIN is the 651xx range also. There may be many silver metallic Teslas built in August 2018. I was told that this color option was discontinued by October.
Yep. Sad to see it go as I’d love to get another Tesla in the same color with a white interior.
Reality is, that the Model 3 has different things it can do better than the Model 3. Or even for the Model X (not sure about the Model S).
I think the Y is really good at what it is meant for, and the model 3 too, both are great cars and the prize isn't too different. I personally would like the Model 3 more too, simply based on the looks and the slightly lower price tag, but I think with a family and maybe a dog, the Model Y is by far the better choice.
If your family includes children greater than 5'4" tall and a large dog like ours does, the Model Y is not the far better choice. Price difference is about $6,000 now, which is a big enough deal to choose carefully between the two.
I just test drove both for quite a while and came to same result--ordered a Model 3 asap and didn’t like the feel of the Model Y for many of the same reasons.
Felt like I was short changing myself going for the 3 vs y, glad I watched your video.
Glad I could help!
Do the rear seats slide front to back? It seems other people in the comments have not had the same issue with the crossbeam.
They do not, and not a one of those complaining that I don't know what I'm doing has provided any evidence of them sitting with the seat reclined, their head on the headrest, and not hitting their head. Some simply misunderstand what I'm doing. Others are intentionally being obtuse.
i do agree you leaning the seat all the way back with your incredibly large head is a recipe for disaster... but i wonder if you're really gonna sit like that for any trip. i'd be more worried about hitting potholes or speed bumps with you sitting that way. i totally understand your issue.. every person has their own dealbreaker.
oh, and just for reference Doug DeMuro is 6'4 and sat in the back just fine. Brian Jenkins of i1Tesla is 6'5 sat in the back just fine. maybe the Tesla community should question them why they didn't bring that to attention.
Neither of those guys tried to put their heads on the headrest. That is not “just fine.” I’m a Clinical Exercise Physiologist who specializes in post-injury reconditioning, and my wife is a spine specialist. We deal with neck injuries all the time, which is why we always test headrests anytime we test drive a car.
The rear cross beam position is a concern for blocking the rear view and discomfort for tall people by some reviews (I do not have hands-on experience), which can be huge disadvantages for some people. For front seats, the cross beam in Model 3 does not block the sky view at all and is safer for wider rear view. I wish Tesla will change it for future Model Y. Model 3 is about 10% faster than Model Y. For overall shape design I think Model 3 is better. For those reasons, I like my Model 3 better. Do not get me wrong, Model Y does have advantage for SUV nature, like bigger space and higher seats etc.
Great video! Was the suspension similar to the 3 (A bit on the hard side)?
Okay, just got to that part of the video!
You guys from The Tech of Tech didn’t watch Sandy Munro Model Y teardown 40 episodes on UA-cam. He absolutely claims that Model Y i s way better built and assembled than Model 3. He doesn’t recommend Mode 3 but does recommend Mode Y.
He only cares about manufacturing and does not really spend a lot of time evaluating cars by how they’re used. BTW, he was once the Model 3’s biggest cheerleader. Did that change?
True. Being stuck at home with pandemic, i watched pretty much all his episodes 🤪. He did compare several times with model 3 from manufacturing perspective and pointed improvements. I dont know what he said about Model 3 before, but at the last episode he clearly stated that he never recommended any EV until now (meaning Model Y) He was quite happy with Model Y body integrity, very impressed with heat pump and some other innovative solutions
Munro totally recommended the Model 3 before. Not sure what's going on there. He had a lot of ways to improve the manufacturing method, but he once did a whole video on recanting some of his early views on the Model 3 that he formed before spending a lot of time with it. Weird.
He’s also comparing with an old model 3. A lot of improvements made on newer model 3s.
@@TheTechofTech I don't think you watched the same model 3 teardown that I watched. Sandy Munro was very impressed with the Model 3 Tech, the design of the electric motors and computer. But as far as fit and finish and the manufacturing design that required a vast number of welds and fasteners, he was highly critical. As far as rear visibility is concerned, what you showed was a camera view of the rear interior. What does it actually look like when you video the mirror itself? I know that on the 3 the mirror shows the rear window plus the frame around it. The rest of the interior isn't present in your field of vision. As you pointed out the side mirrors are more than adequate and if they are adjusted as wide as possible there isn't much in the way of blind spots. Additionally, there is the display on the touch screen that shows the surrounding vehicles. Add the lane assist steering & or alarms and you are pretty well taken care of. I agree that having a split screen that includes both the map and the rear camera would be a fine addition but not absolutely necessary given how many eyes that Teslas already have.
If you need the cargo space, rear legroom and higher sitting position Model 3 is a complete non-starter. If you don't...then you already own a 3 and don't need a Model Y.
I wonder how much of an aerodynamic penalty would come with a higher roof and a more nearly vertical rear window. The model Y has a classic hatchback profile and is far from having enough utility to justify being classified as an "SUV". Nothing wrong with hatchbacks, they have their place. But tall roof boxy wagons/SUVs can carry a lot more.
I’d be very happy with a 250 mile range in something more like a Lexus RX350 than the Model Y. However, I’d still get a Model Y over an RX350 because of the drivetrain.
I think the Model 3 is a great car. It feels more sporty and handles better than the Y. Although I do believe that it's a fair tradeoff to get the Y over the 3. You get more cargo space, you get more seating space. You get that huge uninterrupted piece of glass above you. And you have those awesome 21" Uberturbine rims on the performance model. That's just my opinion though...
The unexpected irony is that the rear seat of the Y is actually narrower than that of the 3 because it's tucked further back between the rear wheel wells. You do get a lot more leg room and a more comfortable bench height, though.
You should do a review of a Mach-E when it comes out or even the xc40 recharge.
I’d love to spend some time with both.
He drove with the rear camera on. Love it haha had me in tears.
Super common thing to do in the S and X, as well.
it's because Tesla has a easy button to click to turn it on and once it's on it will continue turning on by default because the rear view mirror doesn't show shit in the middle. The rear view glass is completely useless
Already decided before this review that the Y was not the car for me. Will keep my Model 3.
I've driven the Performance Model Y. I'm really glad you mentioned that the second row was narrower than the 3!! At first I thought it was just my imagination because while the leg and shoulder room was better than the 3 the width proportions were "off". Personally, I didn't think the suspension was as harsh as people have been saying but everyone should make their own decision.
Fortunately, customers looking for a new EV crossover aren't stuck with only a Y to choose from. There are other choices available now or soon coming to market that might be worth considering.
Volvo XC40
Kia Niro EV
Polestar 2
Mustang Mach-E
Hyundai Kona Electric
Audi Q4 e-tron
VW ID.4
They made so many compromises in the design that really hobble the reasons people prefer crossovers in the first place, sadly.
@@TheTechofTech I can see how a kid's car seat and a dog just make the 3 a challenge as a family vehicle and the Y will work better. You're right about the compromises. Tesla forced itself to make the majority of Model 3 parts fit in the Y and the result was inelegant. I understand now why Elon Musk never got excited about the Model Y. Tesla is gonna sell a gazillion of them though so that's nice.
Rivian’s SUV looks really good.
Look at 4:43, the back seats don’t line up, that is a big flaw, I saw another video of someone else complaining about this and this car has the same issue
Yes, this seems to be an issue with almost every early production Model Y, though Tesla is telling owners that a fix is coming soon.