Tesla has expanded its U.S. Model Y lineup once again — and this time, the addition could be a sweet spot for value-focused buyers.
A new Model Y All-Wheel Drive variant is now available at $41,990, sitting neatly between the base Rear-Wheel Drive version and the more expensive Premium trims. For just $2,000 more than the base RWD, buyers get dual motors, dramatically quicker acceleration, and the added confidence of all-wheel drive — without paying for Tesla’s full “Premium” package.
What’s New: The Model Y AWD at a Glance
This newly added AWD version bridges the gap between affordability and performance, offering hardware upgrades rather than cosmetic extras.
Key specifications include:
-
Price: $41,990 (before incentives)
-
EPA Range: 294 miles
-
0–60 mph: 4.6 seconds
-
Drivetrain: Dual motor all-wheel drive
For comparison, the base Model Y RWD takes 6.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. The AWD model cuts more than two seconds off that time, delivering a noticeably sportier driving experience.
Performance vs. Range: The Trade-Off Explained
The main compromise comes down to driving range.
-
Model Y RWD: 321 miles EPA
-
Model Y AWD: 294 miles EPA
That’s a 27-mile reduction, which for most daily drivers won’t be a deal-breaker. In exchange, buyers gain faster acceleration, better handling, and improved traction — especially valuable in rain, snow, or icy conditions.
For drivers in colder climates, the AWD benefits may easily outweigh the slight range loss.
Full Tesla Model Y Lineup in the US (2026)
With this update, Tesla now offers five Model Y configurations in the U.S. market:
| Variant | Price | Range | 0-60 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard RWD | $39,990 | 321 mi | 6.8s |
| Standard AWD | $41,990 | 294 mi | 4.6s |
| Premium RWD | $44,990 | 357 mi | 5.4s |
| Premium AWD | $48,990 | 327 mi | 4.6s |
| Performance AWD | $57,450 | 306 mi | 3.3s |
Tesla introduced the “Standard” vs. “Premium” distinction last year when it launched decontented versions to lower the entry price. With the arrival of this new AWD option, Tesla appears to be quietly phasing out the “Standard” naming, now referring to higher-trim versions simply as “Premium.”
Why the $2,000 AWD Upgrade Matters?
A $2,000 jump for dual-motor AWD is notably reasonable — and more aligned with what traditional automakers charge for all-wheel drive in this segment.
At $41,990, the new Model Y AWD becomes:
-
One of the most affordable AWD electric SUVs in the U.S.
-
A strong middle ground between base efficiency and premium performance
-
A compelling option for buyers who want real hardware upgrades, not just luxury features
Local and federal incentives (where available) can further improve the value proposition.
Bottom Line: A Smart Addition to the Model Y Lineup
The new Model Y AWD may not grab headlines like a full refresh or a Performance trim, but it quietly delivers where it counts.
For buyers who want quicker acceleration, all-weather confidence, and strong value — without stretching into Premium pricing — this new variant could be the most balanced Model Y Tesla currently sells.
