There is a learning curve when dealing with new vehicles, and with electrified models, the fewer common parts they share with a conventional car, the steeper the curve is. But don't get intimidated. Think of it like learning to use a new phone.

Take the battery-electric Model Y, for example. Instead of a key fob, it comes with a card. Simply tap on a specific surface to unlock and start the vehicle. A paired mobile device with the Tesla app installed will work just the same.

On my first day with the Model Y, I headed out very early, so it was dark. I still hadn't paired my iPhone, so it took a minute to find the spot in the B-pillar to tap the key card and unlock the Model Y.

Inside, it is more spacious than rivals in the compact crossover SUV segment. Without the typical trappings of conventional vehicles — such as an engine, transmission tunnel, and instrument panel — the dashboard is positioned forward for a roomier cabin.

Of all the fully-electric vehicles I have driven, the Model Y has the cleanest layout. Tesla put (almost) all controls on the 15.4-inch central touchscreen, including the aircon, side mirrors, etc. The result is a clutter-free design offering great forward visibility. It just gets trickier to adjust the temperature or the side mirror on the fly. I had to take my eyes off the road, split-second at a time, to navigate the menu.

The only physical controls are the stripped-down leather multi-function steering wheel (with only one roller-type toggle on either side), the two pedals, the window levers, and the left stalk for the turn signals.

The cockpit's minimalism actually makes it user-friendly. GUI designers incorporated prompts that guided me through essential steps. Tesla's idiot-proof system ensures even tech-averse users won't have a problem operating the Model Y.

Surfaces vary from light to dark gray on all surfaces, fabrics, and leather upholstery. It has a cavernous center console and two wireless charging pads at the front end. The left doubles as the sensor to start the Model Y. Tap the key card on it or a paired phone, and the drive mode strip appears in the top-left corner of the screen.

New to the 2025 model year is the eight-inch touchscreen behind the center console for second-row passengers to adjust climate control settings.

This Model Y I drove is priced at P2.739 million because it has the Quicksilver color and Enhanced Autopilot. It uses a Standard Range 60-kWh battery that delivers 299-PS and 420-Nm of torque to the rear wheels, and it has a range of 466-kilometers on a full charge.

Acceleration is smooth but immediate, whether from a standstill or during overtaking at 99-km/h. It gave me instant power even at the slightest hint of throttle pressure. The regenerative braking of the Model Y is more forceful than anything I've experienced and can bring the vehicle to a stop faster than the Leaf's version, which harnesses more kinetic energy to recharge the battery. And you're going to need a lot of that, because one 25-30 km trip eats up about 12-15% of the battery charge. That's probably 2-7% more than what a gas-powered 1.5-liter engine will consume. Steering feel expresses its 4.2-ton curb weight without making it hard to maneuver even in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Comfort is outstanding and rivals (or even surpasses) that of luxury models, thanks to its improved suspension. Its double-layer acoustic side glasses make it so quiet inside that I could barely hear the Model Y's own horn, while the panoramic sunroof's silver coating limits UV and heat transmission. I have no experience with panoramic sunroofs because I never drive test units with the shade open. Since the Model Y doesn't have a sunshade, I was naturally concerned, but thankfully, it gave me the best of both worlds: an open-top experience without the heat or sunburn.

The three-day test drive scratched only the surface of what the Tesla Model Y is all about. Honestly, I didn't get a chance to test many features, including Enhanced Autopilot (I'd prefer to do that in a controlled environment).

If you have range anxiety, the growing number of Destination Chargers and strategically placed Superchargers should help alleviate that. I charged twice at the Pasay Supercharger, and it topped up the battery from about 75% to 100% in 17 minutes, costing a little over P500.

I'm torn about the design. The sleeker front end of the 2025 model year looks attractive and is a head-turner, but the bulbous tail doesn't do it any favors. Other new exterior features include a front light bar, redesigned 20-inch wheels, and a rear diffuser.

The Tesla Model Y looks and functions like a regular vehicle but is operated more like software, with clicks and swipes on its infotainment screen, including opening the glove box and frunk. If that's your POV, you'll have a much better understanding and appreciation of this EV.