Tesla Model Y 19 vs 20-Inch Wheels (In-Depth Comparison)
Selecting the right wheels for your Tesla Model Y is a critical decision that can significantly impact the vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience.
However, this article will discuss two popular wheel sizes for the Tesla Model Y: the 19-inch and 20-inch options.
Understanding their differences will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your preferences and driving needs.
The Tesla Model Y’s 19-inch wheels are better if you prefer comfort, efficiency, and affordability. However, if you want a more sporty look but are willing to sacrifice ride comfort and efficiency, then 20-inch wheels are a better option. When deciding between the two wheel sizes, it’s important to consider personal preferences, driving conditions, and budget.
In this article, I’ll compare the advantages and disadvantages of both 19 and 20-inch wheels. I will also show you how these options influence range, ride quality, handling, and aesthetics.
What Size Wheel Does the Tesla Model Y Come Standard With?
The Tesla Model Y comes standard with the 19-inch wheels. These wheels are specifically optimized for ride comfort and range and are the most common option on the Model Y.
However, many Model Y owners upgrade to 20-inch wheels for improved handling and braking performance.
The 20-inch wheels are an optional upgrade on all Model Y trims. Tesla also offers a performance version of the Model Y, which comes standard with 20-inch wheels.
However, you must consider some factors before selecting the right wheel for your Tesla Model Y.
Some of these factors include:
#1. Ride Comfort and Handling
Ride comfort refers to how smooth the ride is, while handling refers to how well the car responds to your input.
The larger wheels will make the ride a bit bumpier, but the handling will be more responsive.
While the 19-inch wheels will provide the smoothest ride, the handling will be slightly less precise.
However, the choice between the different wheel sizes will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Moreover, the 19-inch wheels are the best option if you prioritize a comfortable ride.
Conversely, larger wheels are your best bet for a sportier, more responsive driving experience.
#2. Tire Cost and Availability
Another factor to consider is the cost and availability of the tires for the different wheel sizes. The 19-inch wheels typically use more common and less expensive tires.
The 20-inch, on the other hand, often requires more specialized and expensive tires. The 19-inch tires may also be more readily available, while the 20-inch may require a special order.
#3. Range and Efficiency
While the 19-inch wheels offer the best range and efficiency, other factors, such as driving habits and road conditions, can affect range and efficiency.
Additionally, the 20-inch larger wheels may offer a good range and efficiency on certain road surfaces, such as highways and smooth roads.
However, they may be less efficient on rough roads.
19” vs. 20” Wheels for Tesla Model Y: Which Is Better?
The better wheel for your Tesla Model Y is the 19-inch wheel. These wheels offer better range and efficiency, more brake clearance, and lower cost.
The table below shows the difference between the 19 and 20-inches wheels:
| Category | Tesla Model Y 19-inch Wheels | Tesla Model Y 20-inch Wheels |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 19 inches | 20 inches |
| Ride Comfort | It offers a more comfortable ride | Slightly firmer ride for a sportier feel |
| Range | Typically provides a longer electric range | Slightly reduced electric range |
| Efficiency | It tends to be more energy-efficient | Slightly less energy-efficient |
#1. The 19-inches Wheels
The 19-inch wheels are designed by Tesla specifically for the Model Y, ensuring a good fit.
Additionally, they are less expensive, which is also a consideration if you are a budget-conscious buyer.
They also offer better range and efficiency, making them a good choice if you are looking to maximize the battery’s life.
However, the low-profile design can make the wheels more vulnerable to damage from potholes and other road hazards.
#2. The 20-inches Wheels
The 20-inch wheels for the Tesla Model Y are an upgrade option that offers a sportier look and improved handling.
The 20-inch wheels also have a lower-profile design that reduces drag and improves aerodynamics.
Another key benefit of the 20-inch wheels is their increased strength and durability.
The forged aluminum alloy makes them stronger and less likely to be damaged by potholes or curb impacts.
The 20-inch wheels have a stiffer ride than the 19-inch wheels, which can make them less comfortable on bumpy roads.
Pros and Cons for 19 and 20-inch Wheels on Model Y Tesla
When choosing the right wheel from the 19-inch and 20-inch wheels for your Model Y, it’s essential to consider trade-offs and your preference.
19-inch wheels offer better ride comfort, increased range, and lower costs but might compromise aesthetics.
On the other hand, 20-inch wheels provide a sportier look and enhanced handling.
However, purchasing the larger wheel might sacrifice ride comfort and increase costs due to tire replacements and potential range reduction.
Below are the pros and cons of the 19 and 20-inches wheels:
#1. Pros of 19-Inch Wheels
#1. Ride Comfort
The larger sidewalls on tires provide more cushioning and air volume, which helps to smooth out the direct effect of bumps and potholes on the road surface.
This feature can result in a smoother, quieter ride, making the car more comfortable for long trips.
In addition, 19-inch wheels can help to reduce road noise, making the driving experience more pleasant.
#2. Fuel Efficiency
The 19-inch wheels can provide a small but significant increase in fuel efficiency for the Tesla Model Y.
Moreover, this feature is because the larger wheels require less energy to rotate, which means the car can travel further on a single charge.
In addition, the 19-inch wheels can improve the range of the Model Y by up to 5%.
#3. Cost
As mentioned, 19-inch wheels are usually less expensive than larger wheel options.
Not only is the cost of the wheels themselves lower, but the cost of replacement tires is also typically lower.
19-inch tires are more common and accessible than larger options, so they tend to be more affordable.
#2. Cons of 19-inch Wheels
Aesthetics
While 19-inch wheels are more practical and affordable, they may not be as visually appealing as larger wheel options.
The 19-inch wheels may look too small for the Tesla Model Y, especially compared to the larger wheel options.
#3. Pros of 20-Inch Wheels
#1. Aesthetics
20-inch wheels often enhance the vehicle’s sporty appearance, giving it a more striking and eye-catching look.
Additionally, the increased ground clearance of 20-inch wheels can make the car look more impressive.
#2. Handling and Performance
The increased size of 20-inch wheels can also provide benefits in terms of handling and performance.
Moreover, the larger wheels can improve cornering performance at high speeds due to their increased grip and traction.
In addition, the increase in wheel size can help to improve the car’s acceleration due to the higher leverage on the axle.
#3. Braking Performance
The larger wheels can provide increased contact with the road, resulting in more stopping power.
The larger wheel size can also improve heat dissipation, which is important for maintaining braking performance over long periods.
The larger wheels can also provide more surface area for brake discs, improving braking performance.
#4. Cons of 20-Inch Wheels
#1. Ride Comfort
One of the main disadvantages of 20-inch wheels is that they can reduce ride comfort.
The stiffness of the larger wheels can make the car feel more bumpy and jarring over rough roads.
Additionally, the tire’s low sidewall height can result in a harsher ride due to less cushioning between the wheels and the road.
This performance will allow you to feel the irregularities of the road, especially on rough roads. This factor can make the car less enjoyable, especially for daily commutes.
#2. Cost
Not only are the wheels themselves more expensive than smaller wheels, but the cost of tires, maintenance, and replacement parts is also higher.
In addition, the increased weight of the wheels can reduce the car’s fuel efficiency, increasing the operation cost over time.
19” vs. 20” Wheels for Tesla Model Y: Cost Comparison
The cost difference between the 19” and 20” wheels for the Tesla Model Y is significant.
Moreover, the 19-inch wheels are the standard option and come with the car’s base price.
The 20-inch wheels are an optional upgrade, and they can add up to $2,000 to the price of the car.
In addition to the initial cost, the 20-inch wheels will have higher maintenance and repair costs due to their increased wear and tear.
#1. 19-inch Wheel Cost
The cost of a 19-inch wheel and Pirelli winter tire package for the Model Y is $2,500.
This price includes the installation of the tires and wheels and the required balancing and alignment.
While they may not offer the same level of performance as the 20-inch wheels, they are more affordable and still provide a smooth ride.
#2. 20-inch Wheel Cost
However, the cost of a 20-inch wheel and Pirelli winter tire package for the Model Y is $3500.
The cost of the wheels is higher than the 19-inch wheels, but they offer more value in terms of performance and looks.
Additionally, the price may vary depending on your specific location and service center.
Does the Wheel Size Matter for a Tesla Model Y Long Range?
The wheel size does matter for a Tesla Model Y Long Range, and it can impact various aspects of the vehicle’s performance, comfort, and efficiency.
Tesla offers different wheel size options for their vehicles, including the Model Y Long Range.
Typically, you can determine the wheel size by the wheel’s diameter and width in inches.
If you prioritize performance and handling, you should be willing to pay the extra cost and accept the trade-offs in range and efficiency.
On the other hand, if you prefer range, comfort, and efficiency, then the standard 19-inch wheels are a better option for you.
Final Words
While the 20-inch wheels may be a good option, the 19-inch wheels are likely the best choice for the Tesla Model Y Long Range.
Not only are they more affordable, but they also provide better range and efficiency for everyday driving.
So, if you want to get the most out of your Model Y Long Range, click here to get the 19-inch wheels at a discount.
