You haven't experienced a harsh ride until you've ridden in a E9x gen 3 series with run flat tires. The Model Y isn't harsh. What it could use is a little better body control over bumps.
I loved everything about test driving the Model Y except the super rough ride. If this becomes a reality in the states it could be a game changer for me.
Have to agree with you there...went a bit too quick with one over a set of train tracks and almost injured myself and my passenger's back/necks. The initial reaction from the passengers was, "what the hell is wrong with your car!?"
I seem to remember a little from mine, maybe it was a bit “jouncy”. But I also put other OEM wheels with non run flats on it
I have the LR AWD with 19" inflated to recommended pressure and I'm coming from a 2019 Model 3 SR+ with 19". The ride in the Y is far too stiff. Every slight imperfection in the road jars the body. So much so that using the touchscreen is difficult because my finger jumps all over. Heck, even driving slowly I find myself anchoring my thumb on the top of the display just so my index finger can successfully tap the lock icon. And I never had issues in the 3 with drinks splashing out of the lids. Same drinks and route in the Y and we're making sure drinks aren't filled before we drive off. My 3 didn't ride like this... it was sporty but not harsh. And I'm coming from BMW. Reminds me a lot of Harley's Touring lineup where there's only 2" of rear suspension travel so you feel everything. Maybe I'll drop the tire pressure a few PSI and see if that improves things.
I have found that adding 1 to 2 PSI over the recommended 42 PSI improves the way the Long Range Dual Motor Model Y with the 19" wheels and Continental ProContact RX tires rides.
Raising the pressure? Sounds counterintuitive but I'll try anything! Thanks. The thing to remember is that Tesla prides itself on producing cars with excellent handling. The 3 and Y in particular. And there are always trade-offs. For the Y, they're trying to hit the sweet spot where it can maintain its composure in the twisties without the ride becoming overly harsh. When all you have are conventional coils/dampers available, it's difficult to land in a place that pleases everybody. I think the complaints are higher in the Y because crossovers have a much wider audience than sedans, so you're bringing in buyers with varying expectations of how this type of vehicle should ride. Add to that this audience typically has families so they're loaded up with people/things which affect the ride as well. If you want sporty you go BMW... if you want quiet and plush, you go Mercedes. Tesla is BMW and unfortunately, there's no "Mercedes" brand to cross-shop (although the ride on the Mach-e is reported to be quite nice). Perhaps when they add the air suspension, things will improve.
@jmatero I was thinking the same thing about it being counterintuitive. Looking forward to hearing your results after you try it.
Here is a study of the effects of different tire pressure on vibrational transmissibility in automobiles: https://avestia.com/ICMEM2014_Proceedings/papers/145.pdf
I love blasting over railway tracks in my MY. There's one set where I accelerate while turn left across a set of tracks. The MY feels like it's skimming over the bumps.
Well shoot, I guess I'm waiting. Too many upgrades being talked about. HEPA, MCU3, air suspension, bigger battery. Hopefully they come soon!
Haha. I’ll enjoy my new model Y and upgrade next year when MCU4 comes out and the rocket is optional on the new plaid. Point is, there will always be something around the corner.
The pictures of the lifted Y in Fremont by Kilowatts has me hoping that Tesla is testing some suspension change. It could just be a MPP lift kit but most of the cars he photographs outisde the Tesla factory are MFG cars so it would imply it's an in-house solution. The pictures are pretty grainy but it's... something Login • Instagram
I am hoping the air suspension does get offered sometime. I am going to hold out for it as I think it makes sense for the rough roads I travel. If it doesn't come I might consider the Tesla S in the future.
If Tesla does not offer air suspension on the Model Y then eventually aftermarket air suspension kits will be available for the Model Y. Air suspension kits are currently available for the Model 3. The wiring, compressor, air lines and suspension parts are installed in the space under the vehicle. Controlling the air suspension settings would be done via your phone using an app.
I own a GLK with 20” and MY rides much harsher and stiffer. I live in NYC, the roads are not kind to suspensions, felt every single bumps with MY.