After months of speculation, the refreshed Tesla Model Y codenamed "Juniper" is finally official in North America.
After an initial release in China spilled the beans on how it looks, we now have full information about what's changed in the Model Y, which now inherits many of the improvements that the Model 3 received in 2024. Let's take a look at what's new.
Style
The New Model Y features a revised front end with a full-width headlight reminiscent of the Cybertruck and Cybercab. In the rear, a minimalist tailgate now features a full-width light bar that reflects diffused light in a novel way, also very cyberpunk inspired.
Interior
Those who are familiar with the Model 3 refresh that happened in 2024 will recognize some familiar changes here, as the Y receives the same wrap-around ambient lighting strip, rear-seat infotainment screen, revised materials and newly ventilated seats. The rear seats are now power-fold, and the audio system gains 2 speakers. Unlike the Model 3, the Model Y will feature - of all things - a turn signal stalk, going away from the radical change of other Tesla models putting the turn signals on the steering wheel as buttons. This is a welcomed change.
Connectivity
Tesla had changed the game with how connected its vehicles are, and this Model Y continues to improve with updated hardware that offers a variety of performance improvements.
Ride comfort
The Model Y now features a smoother ride, thanks to updates to the suspension, wheels, tires, and castings - plus new acoustic glass insulates the cabin from additional road noise and harshness.
Efficiency
It seems the new styling isn't just about giving the Y the new family face, the refresh also makes the Y more slippery through the air for improved energy usage.
Autonomy
The Y is of course compatible with Tesla's (supervised) full self-driving software, but now offers an additional front-facing camera to help the Y better navigate its surroundings.
Cargo
The Y now features a power lift gate that will open upon approach.
Tesla says this new Model Y will launch in March in a single Launch Edition trim, which is a long-range all-wheel drive variant. The Launch Edition starts at $59,990, a $12,000 premium over the current Model Y long-range AWD. The launch edition will feature an estimated 311 miles of range with 19" wheels, and launch to 60 in 4.8 seconds.
