When shopping for an all-electric SUV, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully. With considerations like range, price, safety, and features, finding the right fit for your lifestyle is key. Families, Outdoor Adventurers, Pet Owners, and more choose hybrid SUV’s because they offer AWD, Towing Capacity and good Fuel Efficiency. Whether you’re looking for the best electric SUV for families or the best electric SUV for range, we’ll break down the most important aspects for you. Here, we’ll focus on three standout vehicles: Tesla Model X, Tesla Model Y, and Cadillac Lyriq.
Tesla Model X: The Splurge
The Tesla Model X is a true splurge, depending on your configuration expect to spend between $80,000 – $110,000. In this price range, you would expect top-tier features—and the Tesla Model X delivers. Known as one of the best luxury electric SUVs, the Model X offers Falcon Wing doors, dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and an impressive range of up to 335 miles. For those interested in speed, the Plaid version accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Tesla’s Autopilot and optional Full Self-Driving capabilities add advanced driver assistance, making it a leader in electric vehicle technology.
On top of its performance, the Model X has a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA, making it both luxurious & a top pick for safety-conscious drivers. View Tesla’s statement on the Tesla X’s safety.
Tesla Model Y: The Save
The Tesla Model Y is a more affordable alternative to the Model X, starting at around $45,000, and going up to $52,000 if you opt-in for self-driving. The price becomes even more attractive after applying tax incentives: up to $8000 a year for New York Residents. The Model X is one of the best electric SUVs for families, offering a range of up to 279 miles and dual-motor AWD. While it lacks the extravagant Falcon Wing doors and has a less spacious third row, it still shines with excellent safety features and Tesla’s Autopilot technology.
It doesn’t have the high-end luxury touches, but its solid performance and 5-star NHTSA safety rating make it a fantastic best electric SUV for the money option. If you’re focused on value, the Model Y gives you most of what Tesla offers at a much lower cost. The Model Y is the best entry point into Tesla’s lineup if you’re interested in making the switch.
Cadillac Lyriq: The Pass
While the Cadillac Lyriq may initially catch your eye with its design and large 33-inch LED display, it ultimately falls short compared to Tesla’s offerings. The Tech build of the Cadillac Lyric starts at $58,000, while the highest tier, the Sports build, starts at $63,000. However, at the most basic build, the single-motor rear-wheel drive and slower 5.7-second 0-60 mph performance makes it less thrilling than the Model Y’s dual-motor AWD (at a lower price point as well).
The Cadillac Lyriq’s Super Cruise technology is good but not on par with Tesla’s Autopilot. The Lyriq’s lack of access to Tesla’s Supercharger network is a significant drawback for long-distance travelers. Moreover, the Cadillac Lyriq doesn’t yet have an official NHTSA safety rating, which puts it at a disadvantage when compared to the well-tested safety of the Teslas.
Conclusion
Debating between the Tesla Model X and versus Tesla Model Y? Let’s sum it up simply: If you’re ready to splurge, the Tesla Model X is unmatched in luxury, performance, and safety. For a more budget-friendly option, the Tesla Model Y provides a great balance of technology, range, and safety without breaking the bank. Other popular all-electric SUVs like the Cadillac Lyriq, while stylish, lack the performance and proven safety credentials of Tesla’s electric SUVs, making it a less compelling option for those who want both value and innovation.
