Tesla has recently unveiled the facelifted version of its highly popular Model Y, codenamed Juniper, in select Asian regions. This refreshed version of the electric SUV features several striking design updates and impressive performance improvements, making it an even more appealing option in the competitive electric vehicle market. The updated Tesla Model Y is expected to strengthen its position as one of the leading electric SUVs globally, offering a futuristic look inspired by Tesla’s Cybertruck and improved efficiency, range, and driving dynamics.
The Facelifted Tesla Model Y: A Bold New Design
One of the most noticeable updates to the new Tesla Model Y is its bold new design. Tesla has taken inspiration from the highly anticipated Cybertruck, incorporating more angular and futuristic design elements into the front end of the vehicle. The more aggressive styling features a sleeker, angular front bumper, new narrow headlights connected by a light strip, and an athletic rear end that includes a ducktail spoiler and diffuser. The changes are designed to improve the car’s aerodynamics, which are now more efficient thanks to a drag coefficient of 0.22, a reduction from the pre-facelift model’s 0.23 Cd.
- More aggressive and cutting-edge appearance aligned with Tesla’s futuristic, high-performance vision.
- Front and rear styling updates for a refreshed look.
- Addition of side mirror turn signals.
- Updated air vents on the front bumper.
- New front bumper camera.
- Enhancements designed to improve efficiency and performance.
- Reflects Tesla’s commitment to improving all aspects of the car.
The facelifted Model Y is available in five distinct paint colors in Australia: Ultra Red, Glacier Blue, Stealth Grey, Quicksilver, and Pearl White Multi-Coat. While the options in China are similar, there are slight variations in the names of the colors. These updated colors allow customers to personalize their vehicles to match their tastes, further increasing the appeal of the Tesla Model Y.
Performance and Battery Upgrades
The refreshed Model Y offers impressive improvements in performance and range, further solidifying its position as one of the top contenders in the electric SUV market. Tesla has updated the Long Range AWD and RWD variants, both of which now offer longer ranges than before. The new Model Y features a claimed range of 719 km for the AWD model and 662 km for the RWD version, according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). These updated ranges represent significant improvements of 117 km and 59 km, respectively, over the previous-generation Model Y.
| Variant | Claimed Range (CLTC) | Improvement in Range |
|---|---|---|
| Long Range AWD | 719 km | +117 km |
| Long Range RWD | 662 km | +59 km |
In addition to the enhanced range, the acceleration times for both variants have also been improved. The AWD model can now accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, while the RWD model completes the same sprint in 5.9 seconds. This is a 0.5-second improvement for both variants, further enhancing the driving dynamics of the refreshed Model Y.
The maximum charging speed remains at 250 kW, which enables a 266 km range gain in just 15 minutes of charging. This fast charging capability ensures that drivers can quickly top up the battery, making long road trips more convenient.
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Tesla Model Y Interior Design and Comfort Upgrades
The interior of the facelifted Model Y continues Tesla’s tradition of sleek and minimalist design while introducing important updates aimed at improving both comfort and convenience. A major enhancement is the addition of ventilated front seats, which provide enhanced cooling for both drivers and passengers, making the ride more comfortable, particularly on warmer days. This new feature improves overall comfort, ensuring a more pleasant experience for all occupants. Additionally, the steering wheel has been reworked, with the previous steering wheel buttons being replaced by the more conventional turn signal stalk, offering a familiar layout that many drivers prefer.
Tesla Model Y Technological Advancements and Connectivity
One of the most significant technological updates in the facelifted Model Y is the introduction of a larger 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment unit. This updated unit not only provides an expansive display but also features narrower bezels, resulting in a cleaner and more modern look. The enhanced system offers improved connectivity and intuitive controls, streamlining the user interface for a more user-friendly experience. With these improvements, drivers can enjoy smoother interactions with the vehicle’s technology, making the overall driving experience more enjoyable and efficient.
Entertainment for Rear Passengers
For the first time, the facelifted Tesla Model Y includes an 8-inch display for rear passengers, which provides them with the ability to interact with the vehicle’s features and entertainment system. This feature is especially beneficial for families or groups traveling together, as it allows rear passengers to enjoy additional entertainment options and stay connected during long trips. It adds another layer of convenience and comfort for passengers, further enhancing the overall appeal of the Model Y for various types of journeys.
Increased Space and Practicality
The facelifted Tesla Model Y offers improvements in both passenger and cargo space, making the vehicle more practical for daily use and long trips. The second-row seating has been made roomier, providing greater comfort for passengers, especially on extended journeys. The boot space has also been expanded by 100 liters, bringing the total cargo capacity to 2,130 liters when the seats are folded down. This increase in storage capacity ensures that the Model Y is even more practical for families, individuals, or anyone who requires extra room for luggage or equipment.
These updates to the interior, technology, and space make the facelifted Model Y not only more comfortable but also more functional, supporting Tesla’s vision of creating a versatile, high-performance vehicle.
Production and Availability
Tesla has already begun production of the facelifted Tesla Model Y in regions where it has been officially announced, such as China, New Zealand, and Australia. Deliveries of the updated Model Y are set to begin in May 2025 for these markets. However, release dates for Europe and the United States have not yet been disclosed, leaving customers in these regions eagerly awaiting more information on when they can expect to receive the updated vehicle.
Summary of Key Features and Specifications
Below is a summary of the key features and specifications of the facelifted Tesla Model Y:
- Design: More angular front end, new narrow headlights, ducktail spoiler, redesigned bumpers, aerodynamic improvements.
- Battery and Range:
- Long Range AWD: 719 km (CLTC)
- Long Range RWD: 662 km (CLTC)
- Improvement in range: +117 km (AWD), +59 km (RWD)
- Acceleration:
- AWD model: 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds
- RWD model: 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds
- Charging: 250 kW maximum charging speed, 266 km range in 15 minutes of charging.
- Interior:
- 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with narrower bezels
- 8-inch rear passenger display
- Ventilated front seats
- Traditional turn signal stalk
- Expanded second-row seating
- 100 liters of additional boot space, total 2,130 liters with seats folded
- Paint Colors: Ultra Red, Glacier Blue, Stealth Grey, Quicksilver, and Pearl White Multi-Coat (with slight variations in naming by region)
- Wheels: 19-inch black wheels or 20-inch silver wheels (wheel options vary by region)
Conclusion
Tesla’s facelifted Model Y represents a significant step forward for the company’s popular electric SUV. With a bold new design inspired by the Cybertruck, improved performance, and enhanced efficiency, the updated Tesla Model Y Model Y is poised to capture even more market share in the electric vehicle segment. The long-range capabilities, faster acceleration times, and impressive charging speed make it an attractive option for anyone looking for a high-performance electric SUV.
Tesla has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring that the Model Y remains one of the top choices in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market. As deliveries begin in select regions in May 2025, the facelifted Model Y is sure to generate significant excitement among customers, further solidifying Tesla’s position as a leader in the electric vehicle industry.
FAQs
What are the main interior updates in the facelifted Tesla Model Y?
The facelifted Model Y introduces several key updates, including ventilated front seats for enhanced comfort, a larger 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with improved connectivity and controls, and an 8-inch rear passenger display for entertainment and vehicle interaction.
How has the cargo space improved in the facelifted Tesla Model Y?
The boot space of the facelifted Model Y has been expanded by 100 liters, offering a total of 2,130 liters of cargo space when the second-row seats are folded down, making it even more practical for storing luggage or equipment.
Are there any changes to the steering wheel in the facelifted Tesla Model Y?
Yes, the steering wheel in the facelifted Model Y has been reworked, and the traditional turn signal stalk has replaced the previous steering wheel buttons, offering a more familiar and conventional layout for vehicle controls.