The comprehensive facelift improves every single aspect of Tesla’s best-selling model
January 10, 2025 at 02:51
The wait is finally over – Tesla has officially unveiled the redesigned Model Y “Juniper”. The world’s best-selling EV benefits from a host of upgrades, including refreshed styling and a more refined interior packed with technology. The improvements go beyond aesthetics, as the 2025 Model Y is quicker, quieter, and smoother, while boasting an extended range compared to its predecessor.
Styling-wise, the highlight of the facelifted model is the redesigned nose, featuring split headlights and a full-width LED bar inspired by the Cybercab. The bumper is similar to the Model 3 Highland but features slim intakes on the sides. Just like the Cybertruck, the Model Y doesn’t have a Tesla emblem on the hood.
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At the back, the dark-finished taillight clusters continue the sci-fi theme with indirect lighting on the Tesla lettering. There is also a cleaner design for the tailgate that reaches lower on the rear bumper, touching the enlarged diffuser.
The profile is largely carried over, setting aside the new front fenders and small changes on the sensors. The length has been increased by 47 mm (1.9 inches) to 4,797 mm (188.9 inches). The EV rides on a new set of 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels, while some markets get the aero-friendly 19-inch Crossflow wheels finished in black.
Moving inside, Tesla has retained the familiar minimalist design of the cabin, while introducing numerous improvements. The infotainment display is slightly larger at 15.4 inches (up from 15 inches), while there is an extra 8-inch touchscreen for the rear passengers. The new seat design is said to provide greater comfort and support, adding a ventilated function at the front and power reclining at the rear.
The dashboard, center console, and door cards have also been redesigned, with a new strip of ambient lighting and suede inserts on the Launch Series. Unlike the Model 3 Highland, the steering wheel of the Model Y Juniper retains the traditional indicator stalk, although the gear selection has been integrated into the central display.
Quicker And More Efficient
The 2025 Model Y will be initially available in two trims – the entry-level RWD and the Long Range AWD. Tesla hasn’t announced the battery capacity, but the WLTP range is estimated at 466 km (290 miles) and 551 km (342 miles) respectively. These figures are 11 km (7 miles) and 18 km (11 miles) more compared to the equivalent versions of the outgoing model, an increase that could be attributed to the improved aerodynamics. The maximum charging speed remains unchanged at 250 kW.
While we don’t have information on the output of the electric motors, both trims are quicker than before – the RWD completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 5.9 seconds (-1 second) while the Long Range AWD needs 4.3 seconds (-0.7 seconds). Interestingly, in both trims the top speed is electronically limited at 201 km/h (125 miles), which is slower than before.
Deliveries of the updated Tesla Model Y will commence in April or May, depending on the market. In Australia, the RWD is priced at AU$ 63,400 (US$ 39,300) while the Long Range AWD costs AU$ 73,400 (US$ 45,500), marking an increase of AU$ 7,500 (US$ 4,600) and AU$ 3,500 (US$ 2,200) respectively compared to the pre-facelifted versions.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
