All the Best Tesla Compact SUVs

The closest thing Tesla offers to a compact SUV is the Model Y, and the brand offers some other options if you’re willing to compromise on size.
Written by Liz Jenson
Reviewed by Brenna Swanston
background
Tesla doesn’t carry a compact SUV. The closest available model is the midsize
Model Y
. For those willing to purchase an even larger vehicle, the brand also offers the
Model X
—plus a few smaller options as well!
The Tesla brand produces only two SUVs. Neither of these SUVs is classified as compact, though, so if you’re set on buying a Tesla, you may need to settle for a larger (or smaller!) vehicle than you had originally planned.
Wondering which Tesla model is for you?  Here to guide you through your car-buying process is the trusted
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2022 SUVs from Tesla

Tesla currently has two SUV models available, but neither is classified as a compact SUV.

The midsize SUV: the 2022 Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is the smallest available SUV from Tesla, and the 2022 model is technically classified as a midsize SUV. It has a starting MSRP of $65,990, which is pretty affordable for a Tesla.
This vehicle has a rating of 8.0/10 from Car and Driver and an unsurprisingly similar 8.1/10 from Edmunds, placing the Model Y in a fairly average range. Many critics claim that this vehicle is essentially a
Model 3
with a bigger trunk, but there are some differences between these two models.
Still, is this vehicle for you? There are a few pros and cons to consider.
Strengths of the Tesla Model Y include:
  • Good acceleration due to its dual-motor powertrain
  • A technically advanced interior
Weaknesses of this model include:
  • Disappointing handling
  • Buyers report poor build quality
MORE: Tesla Model Y trunk space

The full-size SUV: the 2022 Tesla Model X

If you’re willing to go for an even larger SUV, the Tesla Model X might be for you. Of course, this vehicle also comes with a much higher starting MSRP— $120,990, to be exact.
Is this extra cash worth it? According to some critics, not really. Car and Driver gave this vehicle a rather unfortunate 6.5/10 rating, while Edmunds was a little more optimistic with an 8.1/10
You might be wondering: Why the low ratings? It seems that many drivers felt that they didn’t get enough bang for their buck. While the Model X isn’t necessarily a bad car, drivers just expected more considering how much money they spent on this SUV.
Strengths of the Tesla Model X:
  • Great range
  • Fast acceleration
  • Charges quickly
Weaknesses of this vehicle:
  • A frustrating steering controller
  • Poorly designed interior
  • Not high enough quality for the money
MORE: What is the maximum Tesla Model X range?

Smaller cars by Tesla

Tesla’s lineup is pretty limited, and there aren’t any compact SUV models available. However, there are some other small vehicles on the market, and some new models are in the works, too! 

The 2022 Tesla Model 3

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 is classified as a compact executive sedan, making it the smallest Tesla model currently on the market. This tiny Tesla starts at $46,990.
So, is the Model 3 worth the price? According to reviews, maybe! It depends on what you’re looking for from your vehicle. Edmunds gave this Tesla a pretty average 8.0/10 rating, and Car and Driver gave this vehicle an even better 8.5/10. That’s pretty encouraging!
Still, the Model 3 has its weaknesses, too, like an unexpectedly poor fit and finish that some say is unsuitable on such a high-class vehicle.
Strengths of the Tesla Model 3 include:
  • Agile handling
  • Great range on the Long Range model (which starts at $57,990)
  • More affordable than other Tesla models
  • Generous storage space for a smaller vehicle
  • The all-electric motor means lower fuel costs
Weaknesses of this vehicle include:
  • Poor range for highway driving
  • An all-digital interior that some drivers find obnoxious
  • Cramped rear seats that are uncomfortable for most adults
  • Poor build quality on some vehicles
  • More expensive to maintain than the average luxury sedan
MORE: What is the maximum Tesla Model 3 range?

The 2022… or rather, 2023 Tesla Roadster

Next up is Tesla’s Roadster model, an all-electric sports car designed for high speeds. This vehicle is a two-door vehicle (as opposed to the four-door Model 3). It is actually smaller than the Model 3, but it is not usually considered part of the standard Tesla lineup since its production has been pushed back several times.
While it was originally set for release in 2022, the Roadster has now been pushed back to the 2023 Tesla lineup—meaning that as of now, the Roadster is just an idea. 
The Roadster is also set to be significantly more expensive than the Model 3, with a starting MSRP of $200,000 for the standard version and, for the even more limited 2023 Founder’s Edition (of which there will be only 1,000 made), the starting MSRP jumps to $250,000.
What makes the Roadster so special— and is it worth the $200,000 price tag? As it turns out, it’s hard to say. Neither Edmunds nor Car and Driver have reviews for this vehicle out on their websites since it has not yet been officially released and, since most consumers have yet to get their hands on this vehicle, there aren’t many customer reviews to consult.
For now, it’s easiest to judge the Tesla Roadster by its stats, many of which are very impressive.
Strengths of the Tesla Roadster:
  • Has been called “the world’s quickest car” due to its extremely fast acceleration time
  • Looks the part of a supercar
  • Great predicted range
Weaknesses of this model:
  • It hasn’t been released yet… and production dates keep being pushed back
  • Tesla has a poor track record in terms of overall vehicle quality
  • Very expensive
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What is Tesla’s cheapest car?

As of 2022, Tesla’s cheapest car is by far the Model 3 with its starting MSRP of $46,990. Of course, even this vehicle can top $72,000 if you choose to purchase it fully loaded, so beware of those add-ons and upgrades if you’re attempting to buy a Tesla on a budget!

Tips for saving on Tesla car insurance

Another thing to consider when buying a Tesla is the price of your car insurance, particularly since Teslas are relatively expensive to insure. Not only are Teslas luxury vehicles, but they’re also electric cars, which often carry a higher insurance cost.
Fortunately,
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The best part? The average user saves close to $900 per year.
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saved me $80 a month! I have a Tesla Model Y and really wanted to lower my rates. And they did! I really recommend you give this a shot!” —Nick M.
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