The Tesla Model Y is getting a new look for 2025, along with an interior update and improved performance.
The SUV was the world’s best selling car last year and has been a huge success for Tesla. However, this year the company has seen a revenue dip as EV sales in general tank.
Company boss, Elon Musk, had previously said the Model Y is not due an update in 2024. He explained that the firm is busy concentrating on other products. However, a facelift, dubbed Project Juniper, appears imminent because images have emerged online, suggesting a launch any time.
When it debuted the SUV’s 530km range was a headline act but the likes of Skoda Enyaq and Peugeot e-3008 have surpassed that.
The update will likely remedy that, as it did for the Model 3. Electronic and aero enhancements lifted range by almost 10 per cent. Like the 3, the Y will feature a new front end, with aero-optimised headlights and bumper. Those changes should also reduce cabin noise. The Model 3 became one of the most aerodynamic sedans on sale after the revamp, with a Cd of 0.22.
A similar update for the SUV should extend range to over 560km.
Expect the Model Y to adopt the redesigned centre console, better textiles and 8.0in rear touchscreen from the Model 3 as well. Hopefully the Model Y will retain its indicator stalk given how much criticism the Model 3 has received over moving the direction controls to the steering wheel.
At the rear is a new light bar quite distinct from the Model 3’s taillight cluster.
Tesla is not expected to make big changes to the charging system – the Model Y can hook up to 250kW chargers even now – but the top Performance model is likely to be more potent and quicker, to take on new rivals like Porsche Macan Turbo. If it can approach the Model 3 Performance’s sprint time of 3.1sec to 100km/h, then job done.
