How new cheapest-yet Tesla Model Y compares to the rest of the range

Tesla has added a new version of Model Y to its lineup of electric cars, with a starting price that is some $8,000 lower than the rest of the range.

Before the new model arrived, the most affordable Model Y was the Dual Motor Long Range, which starts at $49,990 before incentives. But now a new rear-wheel-drive, single motor Model Y is available for the first time.

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This car, called the Standard Range, starts at $41,990 (or $40,490 if you live in California, thanks to the state's Clean Fuel Reward). The first deliveries of new orders are due to start in the next two to five weeks, the Tesla website says.

When Tesla announced the Model Y in early 2019, it promised four versions with prices spanning from $39,000 to $60,000 and range estimates of 230 to 300 miles. However, company boss Elon Musk said the following summer that the entry-level Model Y, which was due to arrive in the spring of 2021, would not launch due to an "unacceptable low" range.

Musk added that the single-motor Model Y would record fewer than 250 miles using the EPA test cycle, and he wasn't willing to sell such a car.

However, some concessions appear to have been made and now the single-motor Model Y is listed with an EPA estimated range of 244 miles. But, as Tesla has proven over the years, it is often able to increase the range of its cars via software updates throughout their life. This could well happen with the Model Y to get it across the 250-mile mark.

As for the rest of the car's performance, it has a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 135 mph. The latter is the same as the $49,990, 326-mile Dual Motor Long Range, although that car has a quicker 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds.

The Model Y family is headed by the $59,990 Performance option, which has a range of 303 miles, a top speed of 155 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. It is worth noting that all cars are listed with an estimated EPA range at the time of writing.

Tesla has also this week revealed details of a seven-seat option for the Model Y. Announced back in 2019, the option costs $3,000 and adds a third row of seating for two at the rear of the cabin, just as is offered in the larger Model X.

The option also adds USB-C charging for third-row passengers, sliding second row with adjustable seatbacks, and fold-flat seats on the second and third row with electronic releases located in the trunk. Tesla is yet to release any photos of the seven-seat options, but it likely that little trunk space will remain with the third row in place.