The Digester

MKBHD says Tesla cut contact and he sourced a Model Y Performance from a dealership

Feb 22nd 2026

YouTuber Marques Brownlee says Tesla stopped responding so he borrowed a Model Y Performance from a New Jersey dealer for a January review, which remained largely positive despite some criticisms.

  • Marques Brownlee says Tesla stopped talking to him, so he rented a Model Y Performance from a dealership for his review.
  • Tesla has supplied Brownlee vehicles in the past but did not provide one this time and did not comment for Business Insider.
  • His review praised Tesla for its center display, improved ride and rear design, and best in class regenerative braking.
  • He criticized the lack of physical controls and said sport trim did not meaningfully sharpen steering or driving feel.
  • Brownlee said Tesla is still ahead in some areas but faces growing competition from Lucid, Rivian, and General Motors.
  • Brownlee previously criticized the Cybertruck, sold his Cybertruck after eight months, and canceled deposits for two Roadsters, and he has used the same dealership to source cars before.